INCA EWI Case Study: Ratlinghope, Shropshire

Situated in the picturesque Shropshire Hills, this outstanding residential refurbishment demonstrates how External Wall Insulation can transform an existing property into a contemporary, energy-efficient family home while respecting its rural surroundings. Completed by Mr Smooth Plastering Ltd, this 300m² residential refurbishment project showcases exceptional workmanship and the performance benefits of modern façade systems using Baumit StarSystem EPS.

The homeowners wanted to modernise their property, significantly improve its thermal efficiency and create a clean, contemporary appearance that would complement both the original dwelling and the newly constructed extensions. Achieving these objectives required careful planning, technical expertise and an uncompromising approach to quality throughout every stage of the installation.

The project utilised Baumit StarSystem EPS incorporating 100mm EPS insulation, dramatically improving the thermal performance of the building. Upgraded insulation has substantially reduced heat loss, increased year-round comfort for the occupants and contributed to lowering the property’s long-term energy consumption and carbon footprint. As a 300m² refurbishment, the project has delivered significant improvements in both energy efficiency and overall building performance.

The insulation system was reinforced using Baumit StarContact White and StarTex Fine Mesh, providing a robust, impact-resistant basecoat designed to deliver exceptional durability and long-term performance. Particular attention was paid to every aspect of the installation, including board alignment, reinforcing mesh placement, corner detailing and movement joints, ensuring the completed system not only meets but exceeds recognised industry standards.

The finished façade was completed using Baumit SilikonTop 2mm in Colour 0189. Selected for its great weather resistance and high breathability, ideally suited to the exposed conditions of the Shropshire countryside. The neutral shade allows the home to blend naturally into the surrounding landscape.

To enhance the detailing, the windowsills were finished in Baumit Colour 0195, providing a subtle contrast that frames the glazing and complements the clean lines of the rendered elevations. The carefully selected colour palette works in harmony with the slate roof and surrounding rural setting, creating a timeless finish that enhances the property’s character rather than overpowering it.

One of the most impressive aspects of this project is the consistency and precision of the workmanship across the 300m² development. The property combines an existing dwelling with substantial new extensions, requiring careful attention to numerous junctions, changes in elevation and differing construction methods. Mr Smooth Plastering Ltd delivered seamless transitions between the original structure and the new elements, maintaining perfectly straight lines, uniform render texture and exceptional detailing throughout.

Beyond its striking visual transformation, the completed project delivers substantial long-term benefits. The upgraded external wall insulation system now provides improved thermal efficiency, enhanced weather protection and reduced maintenance requirements thanks to the premium performance of Baumit StarSystem EPS. The homeowners now benefit from a warmer, more comfortable and energy-efficient home while significantly improving the property’s kerb appeal and long-term value.