Project: Residential New Build Housing
Location: Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Sector: Flooring
System: Stylite T-Beam Infill Insulation
Size: 220 Plots / 8,000M2
Problems
A continuing shortage of aerated concrete blocks in the UK, caused by a reduction in the availability of fresh Pulverised Fuel Ash (PFA) is causing long delays on construction sites. PFA is a by-product of coal-fired power stations and is an essential ingredient of concrete blocks, giving them their thermal insulation properties. A warm winter, low gas prices and gradual closure of coal-fired plants for cleaner energy sources has reduced the amount of PFA.
Client Requirement
A national house builder wanted an alternative flooring system for a large residential new build housing project in Wakefield, West Yorkshire which would negate the need for concrete blocks and avoid any costly on-site delays. The desired system would also need to achieve Part L Building Regulations for thermal performance and demonstrate an overall cost saving.
Design Solution
The unique Stylite T-Beam Suspended Floor Insulation was introduced to the clients design team, who quickly saw the benefits it offered and were keen to specify the system. SPI worked closely with the client and concrete beam manufacturer to design a holistic solution. The Stylite T-Beam system comprises of lightweight Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) panels contour cut to suit the profile of the concrete beams. The interlocking EPS panels are installed between the beams with the “toe” extending underneath to provide the all round insulation and eliminating cold bridging. The panels specified were 230mm deep to achieve a U-value of 0.22 W/m2K meeting the clients requirements for Building Regulations. To complete the floor design a macro fibre concrete screed topping of 75mm was specified.
Result
After receiving on-site training from SPI the ground work contractor was “Very impressed by the speed of installation” and could see how easy the system was to install. “We can now complete around two houses in the same time it would have taken to do one with traditional concrete blocks and the polystyrene is so light it massively reduces our manual handling”.
U-Value Achieved
0.22WmK2
Project Site Manager
