INCA Case Study: Ollerton Refurbishment

The Nottingham Community Housing Association (NCHA) was granted funding from the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF). This funding, a crucial component of the government’s ambitious agenda to elevate UK homes with low energy performance ratings empowered NCHA to spearhead a retrofit project across 32 properties in and around Ollerton in North Nottinghamshire.

Specific Design and Technical Challenges Overcome

The work took place between May and October 2023, strategically capitalising on the longer summer days to optimise workflow and minimise disruptions for residents.

To execute this project, NCHA entrusted locally based, award winning insulation contractors, Westville with responsibility. Collaborating with retrofit designers and coordinators from Osmosis, alongside appointed window contractors, Westville embarked on a journey marked by innovation and excellence. The project’s architectural blueprint allowed for a diversity of styles, with some properties adorned in solid render finish, while others incorporated traditional brick-effect render, all achieved through the meticulous application of the BBA Certified Wall System 2 External Wall Insulation (EWI) System by SPS Envirowall.

Installation Details and On-Site Challenges

Inevitable obstacles materialised in the form of electrical cables, necessitating their removal by Western Power to facilitate the seamless installation of Wall System 2. In navigating the programme, meticulous planning and unwavering communication, facilitated by NCHA and Westville, ensured minimal disruptions to residents and adherence to the program’s timeline.

Thermal Performance Enhancement

Wall System 2 offered a robust solution to curtail energy expenditures and minimise the carbon footprint of buildings.
The system safeguards the structural integrity of the houses by fostering a warm and moisture-free environment. This proactive approach to insulation ensures the preservation of the building’s fabric, mitigating the risks associated with temperature fluctuations and moisture ingress.

• EPC at the beginning of this project was E/D. Once work was completed, property ratings were C.
• The estimated amount of energy bills saved per year is £10,800 (£360 per household).

Source: Energy Savings Trust / https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/advice/solid-wall-insulation/

• And, 26.4 tonnes of CO2 saved each year.

Source: Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator / https://www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-equivalencies-calculator

Contributory Factors Making it a ‘Stand-Out’ Project:

The aesthetic enhancements afforded by the silicone top coat offered a canvas for architectural rejuvenation. The versatility of EWI – from subtle aggregate textures to intricate brick façades – revitalised homes and the entire housing estates alike.
Central to the appeal of BBA Certified Wall System 2 is its expansive repertoire of options. SPS Envirowall offers a vast spectrum of systems and finishes, fortified by rigorous accreditation and unwavering technical support.

The culmination of NCHA’s vision stands as a testament to the transformative power of collaborative effort and unwavering dedication. This project underscores both the triumph of sustainable housing initiatives and the spirit of progress that defines our collective journey towards a brighter, more sustainable future. All work was carried out to PAS standards with Trustmark guarantees of 25 years on the EWI.

Comments from several residents who benefitted from the upgrades to their properties:

“Very informative girls in the office, lovely installers and Jack the electrician was superb.”

“My house looks beautiful and is much warmer.”

“All brilliant, no complaints.”

“All good, we’ve not had our heating on yet.”

“Delighted with our new home. The workmen have been fantastic, very polite”