construction, and generally improving the inte- rior environment. In particular I wanted to find out whether a ‘one-off’ project of this type would be feasible in terms of cost and practicality.
Secrets of success
The success of the project depended on a number of factors. Firstly reliable, local contractors were essential – builders and tradesmen who could follow the brief and specification precisely and handle the work efficiently. Materials needed to be selected which could be shown to achieve specified standards for the new insulation. Specialists were needed for certain areas of
the work, including damp proofing and roof repairs. The combination of the right trades, an agreed design plan and good time management were also key elements in the success of the project. Improvements to the fabric of the building
were a first priority. Twin brick walls with no cavity provide a good, solid base – but additional cladding is the only solution to upgrading the insulation level. In this instance the internal space was found
to offer another advantage. The room sizes easily allowed the small reduction needed to facilitate the internal wall insulation. A rigid PIR product was chosen which, when combined with the existing structure, could be shown to produce an overall U-value compliant with current Building Regulations. The specified Celotex board was applied
using cement dabs, with plasterboard cladding to window reveals, achieving a U-value of 0.27. New chemical damp proofing was installed in certain areas of the external walls, in advance of the new insulation. New internal cills to double glazed windows ensured a well- finished look.
Further improvements
The slate and timber roof needed some repair to ensure water tightness. While further improvements could be made – with the introduction of felt for instance – priority was given to thermal insulation, which was added above the joists. Internal floors at ground level are a combination of suspended timber and solid construction. At the start of the project the solid floors were quarry tile finished and presented damp penetration issues. These were replaced with new, insulated concrete, plus damp proof membranes in line with current upgrade methods. The addition of a new heating and hot water system with an efficient gas boiler fur- ther enhances the renovated home’s efficiency. The interior was generally improved – including new kitchen units and bathroom fittings, re-decoration and floor coverings. There is a small reduction in room size due to the internal wall insulation, but the impact on the internal space is minimal. From the outside very little has changed, apart from new windows. The attractive brickwork exterior presents what remains a modest, traditional 1910 house, but
this one encloses updated and energy-efficient living accommodation. The project was undertaken over a period of
six months, and within a budget of less than £100,000. Whether this model would work as part of a larger project, or encompassing
Products/suppliers
Main renovation contractor: Head2Toe Developments, Swadlincote Damp proofing and timber preservation works: Peter Cox Preservation Design and Project Management:
J.M.Design, Leicester Heating installation: Matt Taylor, Swadlincote
Insulation materials: Celotex PL4065 composite interior wall cladding, Knauf 100 mm and 170 mm loft roll Kitchen fittings: Greenwich range from Howdens Bathroom fittings: Positano range from Wickes Wall tiling: Satin white ceramic wall tiles from Wickes Floor finishes: Tarkett Zenon vinyl, Tangier Berber carpet Paint: Wickes Trade emulsion gardinia, Wickes interior white satin
Internal doors and door furniture: Lincoln solid pine door – white satin finished and brass finished Victorian scroll latch handles by Wickes
multiple properties, is difficult to say. A lot of time and effort was contributed without charge, because of my enthusiasm to achieve something worthwhile as an exercise in property renovation. The ultimate aim has been achieved, namely creating a comfortable, practical home.
selfbuilder & homemaker
www.sbhonline.co.uk
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AFTER BEFORE
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