Case Study - Private Client

This case study is based on the experiences of a private client based in Fife, Argyll.

The Problem

The customer contacted Retrofoam with a common problem for homeowners in the UK. They had a really nice property which was erected in 1980 at a time where thermal efficiency was not a primary concern. The property was of timber frame construction and was very cold in the winter, and the heating was on for the majority of the day to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Due to the construction of the property traditional cavity fill insulation was not suitable as it can only be put in the cavity between the timber frame and the brick/block exterior walls. It is essential in houses of this type that this cavity is clear allowing a free flow of air to remove any vapour which permeates the internal walls to clear.

Existing Wall Build Up

•  100mm block
•  50mm cavity
•  Breather membrane
•  9.5mm OSB
•  95mm studs with failed mineral wool insulation between (insulation not present in all areas of the building)
•  Vapour barrier
•  12.5mm plasterboard internally

The Options

Two alternatives to Retrofoam existed for the customer. The first was external wall insulation, but this proved to be an extremely expensive option for the customer. The second was removing the internal plasterboard and replacing the failed insulation with modern insulation blocks. Once again the cost was prohibitive with labour costs particularly being high. A further issue with this option was the mess and disruption which would be caused especially in the kitchen and bathroom which required the removal of the fixtures.

The Solution

Retrofoam were instructed to carry out the installation of their unique product which was injected from the outside of the property directly in to the stud cavity. The job was completed in one day much to the delight of the customer, with no mess and no fuss.

The customer felt an almost instant difference and noticed very quickly that they had to turn down the thermostat on their central heating system. As a result heating costs were significantly reduced.

Client Testimonial