INCA Case Study: Winslow Health Centre, Buckinghamshire

In January 2022, Structherm Ltd were enlisted to lend their expertise to a refurbishment project at Winslow Health Centre, commissioned by the NHS, in conjunction with Studio Four Architects and Wall Coatings. The facility, constructed in the 1980s, is a single-story building featuring a cavity wall construction. Additionally, it comprises sections with both a pitched and a flat roof construction.

Solution & Specification

The building underwent a comprehensive refurbishment, which involved re-roofing with the installation of new fascias, soffits, and gutters. In addition, new windows and doors were installed, and the project was completed using Structherms External Wall Insulation system, ThermaBase and ArtBrick^TM solutions for a high-quality finish.

Installation & Challenges

The coordination of detailing with the window and door manufacturers was carried out to ensure that the windows and eaves details were both practical and easy to construct. The client’s specific requirement was to have the windows and doors positioned beyond the face of the existing brickwork. To accommodate this, the project incorporated the Triotherm Structural Thermal supports system into the Structherm EWI (External Wall Insulation) system. This integration allowed for the installation of windows and doors in this desired location while minimizing thermal losses around the reveals.

To address the insulation needs below the Damp Proof Course (DPC) area, the Structherm ThermaBase prefabricated system was implemented. This solution effectively insulated the area below the DPC, without wet trades, offering a more rapid and practical approach compared to applying renders to the face and wall.

To achieve a modern aesthetic and transform the appearance of the buildings, the client selected Structherm’s ArtBrick^TM system. This choice allowed for the creation of a contemporary look that complemented the overall design.

The End Result

The comprehensive refurbishment of Wilmslow Health Centre was a remarkable achievement, rejuvenating a tired, aging building into a modern, multipurpose facility for the NHS. The transformation has resulted in a space that can be enjoyed by both the public and staff for many years to come. One notable upgrade is the significant improvement and enhancement of its U-Value, which has been reduced from 1.67 W/m2k to an impressive 0.28 W/m2k. This means that visiting the centre will no longer be as daunting a prospect for visitors, as patients and staff can now experience more comfortable temperatures within a well-insulated environment. Moreover, the improved insulation will without doubt lead to massively reduced energy costs for the site, providing additional benefits.