INCA Case Study: Cheviot Court, North Ayrshire

Overview

Cheviot Court in Ayrshire stands as a testament to the transformative power of External Wall Insulation (EWI) when expertly specified and installed.

Originally constructed in the post-war era using traditional concrete panel systems, this mid-rise residential block typified the social housing of the 1960s, robust in structure but severely lacking in thermal performance.

K Systems was selected to design and deliver a high-performance EWI solution that would dramatically improve the building’s energy efficiency, enhance aesthetics, and reduce heating costs for residents – many of whom are elderly and vulnerable.

The result is a warmer, smarter, and more sustainable building that is now fit for the future.

Project Background and Challenges

Cheviot Court faced a critical issue: its original concrete panel construction offered no insulation, leaving the building exposed to harsh Scottish weather and resulting in poor thermal comfort for residents.

Energy bills were high, heat retention was poor, and living conditions were well below modern standards.

Installing EWI on a building that had never previously had it presented several challenges:

• Thermal inefficiency: The structure lacked any form of thermal envelope, requiring a system that could significantly improve U-values within budgetary constraints.
• Design complexity: Detailing at roof junctions, window reveals, and service penetrations had to be meticulously planned to avoid cold bridging and future maintenance issues.
• Aesthetic transformation: The new finish needed to modernise the building while gaining approval from both residents and the local authority.
• Budget limitations: A tight budget demanded a system that could deliver maximum performance at minimal thickness, without compromising on quality or durability.
• Resident care: Being home to many elderly occupants, the installation programme had to prioritise safety, communication, and minimal disruption.

System Specification and Installation

To meet these demands, K Systems specified K Systems P, a 60mm phenolic insulation system paired with a white silicone render finish.

This solution was ideal for several reasons:

• High thermal performance: Phenolic insulation delivers excellent U-values even at lower thicknesses, which was crucial where structural and design limitations – such as narrow window reveals and roof overhangs – restricted available space.
• Lightweight and easy to apply: The system was particularly well-suited to the original 1960s concrete panels, ensuring quick and secure adhesion without adding undue stress to the existing structure.
• Low-maintenance, modern finish: Silicone Thincoat is UV-stable, weather-resistant, and prevents algae growth, ensuring long-term durability and a fresh, clean appearance.
• Custom detailing: K Systems’ technical experts worked closely with North Ayrshire Council’s architectural team to produce bespoke detailing around complex junctions, ensuring thermal continuity and watertightness.
• Resident-first delivery: Installers coordinated logistics to minimise disturbance, maintained safe access routes, and provided regular updates to residents, who remained fully informed throughout the process.

Results and Impact

The transformation of Cheviot Court has delivered significant, measurable improvements, including:

• Enhanced thermal comfort: Residents report warmer homes and reduced reliance on heating, particularly in the winter months owing to a reduction in U-value from 1.24W/m²K to 0.30W/m²K
• Reduced energy bills: The improved energy performance has translated directly into savings for tenants, many of whom were previously in fuel poverty.
• Visual uplift: The sleek white finish has modernised the building’s appearance, creating a bright and welcoming façade that has drawn praise from both residents and visitors.
• Futureproofing: With enhanced protection from the elements, reduced maintenance requirements, and a design life of decades, the EWI system secures the long-term viability of the building.

Conclusion

Cheviot Court exemplifies K Systems’ commitment to technical excellence, resident wellbeing, and sustainable design. By overcoming structural challenges, budget limitations, and intricate detailing requirements, the project demonstrates the power of EWI to rejuvenate social housing while delivering tangible, lasting benefits to communities.