September 2019

Insulation Updates
For further info on all these updates and more, visit www.total-contractor.co.uk
OLYMPIC WIN FOR OPTIM-R
The Kingspan OPTIM-R Balcony and Terrace System has been installed as part of the award-winning Here East
development, a stunning repurposing of the press and broadcasting centres at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Here East provides over 110,000m² of flexible studio, work and retail spaces. The design adds warmth and creativity to
the once windowless, monolithic façade of The Broadcast Centre. The building has been opened up with a new
projecting unitised curtain-wall system and recessed balconies helping to add depth and interest to the building.
Operatives from Kingspan Insulation’s
OPTIM-R design service ensured the optimal
ratio of OPTIM-R VIPs to infill panels.
Lakesmere, now owned by Kaicer Building Envelope Solutions, were appointed to deliver the curtain-walling which wraps three sides of the building. The design
called for three large recessed balconies running up to 13 metres in length. A pedestal floor construction was chosen for these areas and to ensure the space below
was effectively insulated, whilst also maintaining a level transition from the adjoining space, the Kingspan OPTIM-R Balcony and Terrace System was chosen.
Unlike conventional insulation materials, Kingspan OPTIM-R panels feature a vacuum insulation core with an innovative microporous structure. This design allows
them to achieve a declared thermal conductivity of 0.007 W/m∙K – up to five times lower than commonly used insulation materials. Rigid insulation infill panels of
the same thickness are also included within the system. These are fitted around the perimeter of the balcony and can also be cut to allow for penetrations through
the insulation layer or to fill spaces between the Kingspan OPTIM-R vacuum insulation panels (VIPs). www.kingspaninsulation.co.uk/optim-r
INSULATION MOVE FOR AVONSIDE
Avonside Group has acquired the BillSaveUK Housebuilding Insulation Division.
The acquisition means Avonside’s existing insulation operation will now be incorporated into the new
Division. Tony Burke, Chief Executive of Avonside Group, explained: “BillSaveUK have garnered a
reputation of being the country’s leading installers of cavity wall insulation and loft insulation, and have
built fantastic relationships with their loyal customer base. As part of Avonside Group’s long-term growth
strategy, we are pleased to have the opportunity to build on BillSavesUK’s legacy and are looking forward
to delivering the high standard of service customers have come to expect.” www.avonsidegroup.co.uk
SIPS’ STRUCTURAL STRENGTHS
The Kingspan TEK Building System has been used to construct five luxury villas at the Porth Veor
Manor Hotel near Newquay – providing the perfect seaside spot for holiday makers.
Porth Veor Manor Hotel: “In order to create a curve, the roof
panels were spanned horizontally and faceted then
battened and lined with plywood.”
The Kingspan TEK Building System of SIPs was specified for the project for a variety of reasons, as Mike
Burke, from Sip Hus, explained: “The design of the units, their location, size and performance
requirements meant that the Kingspan TEK Building System was the best choice for the structural shells.
The excellent thermal performance of the panels allowed us to maximise the internal spaces within the
given footprint without having to compromise on thermal efficiency.” www.kingspantek.co.uk
FABRIC GAINS FOR MILL PROJECT
Kingspan Kooltherm K7 and K107 Pitched Roof Board have helped transform a former Victorian
mill into CAT B office space for Manchester Metropolitan University.
Kingspan Kooltherm K7 and K107 Pitched Roof Board can
achieve thermal conductivities as low as 0.020 W/m·K
and 0.018 W/m·K, respectively.
The design team for 6 Great Marlborough Street prepared the fit-out using the Royal Institute of
Chartered Surveyor’s SKA Rating environmental assessment method – targeting a Silver rating
certificate. As part of this process, they identified an opportunity to upgrade the thermal performance
of the poorly insulated pitched roof. To minimise heat loss through the roof, a construction combining
Kingspan Kooltherm K7 and K107 Pitched Roof Board was installed. www.kingspaninsulation.co.uk
84 TC SEPTEMBER 2019