Best Practice Guide Final

Best Practice Guide
External Wall Insulation

INCA Insulated Render and Cladding Association
www.inca-ltd.org.uk
External Wall Insulation Best Practice Guide
This guide is issued by INCA to give general guidance on best practice. INCA and the organisations
responsible for its content do not accept any liability arising in any way from relying on this guide. If you
require advice on a specific issue, you should seek your own independent professional advice.
This guide is to be referred to in conjunction with advice, accreditations, specifications, data sheets and
details from the relevant system designers.
It should be noted that each system has its variations, therefore detail information contained in this
document is of a general nature.
Requests to use any part of this guide should be made in writing to:
Insulated Render and Cladding Association
6-8 Bonhill Street
London
EC2A 4BX.
Endorsements
This guide has been endorsed by the European Association for External
Thermal Insulation Composite Systems (EAE).
Acknowledgments
This guidance has been produced by the INCA Technical Committee. INCA would like to thank the
following contributors:
Alsecco Kingspan Insulation Rockwool

Alumasc Knauf Insulation S and B EPS
Astley Facades Knauf UK SPSenvirowall
Dryvit Mapei UK Sto
Ejot UK MIB Facades Weber
Insuletics Parex Wemico Building Products
Jablite PPG Architectural Coatings Wetherby Building Systems
JUB Systems Rawlplug
© INCA Ltd 2015 all rights reserved www.inca-ltd.org.uk

Contents
2. Header
Header
1 Introduction 4
2 Statutory Bodies 5
2.1 Planning Permission
2.2 Building Regulations
3 EWI System Types Overview 6
4 System Components 7
4.1 Insulation
4.2 Mechanical Anchors / Fixings
4.3 Adhesive Renders
4.4 Reinforcement Basecoats and Reinforcement Mesh / Lath
4.5 Finishes
4.6 Beads, Trims and Flashings
5 Insulation Materials 12
5.1 Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) - White and Grey / Enhanced
5.2 Phenolic
5.3 Polyisocyanurate (PIR)
5.4 Mineral (Stone) Wool / Glass Wool
5.5 Cork
5.6 Wood Fibre Insulation
5.7 Extruded Polystyrene (XPS)
6 System Accreditations and Approvals 17

6.1 European Co-operation for Accreditation (EA)
6.2 National Accreditation Bodies
6.3 Certification / Approval Bodies
6.4 Certification and Approvals
6.5 BBA / UKAS Accredited Approved Installer Scheme
7 System Installation 19
7.1 Pre-works Inspections
7.2 Cleaning and Priming / Pre-treatment of the Substrate
7.3 Checking Existing Rendered Finishes
7.4 Pull-out Testing of Mechanical Anchors
7.5 Pull-off Tests for Adhesive Fixed Systems
7.6 Working Sequences
7.7 Bonding / Fixing Insulation
7.8 Base Coat Application
7.9 Meshes
7.10 Finishes
7.11 Beads and Trims
7.12 Sealants and Junctions
8 Evaluation of Completed Installations 26

8.1 Inspecting Finished Systems
8.2 Acceptable Tolerances
8.3 British Standards
8.4 Using Installed Systems
9 Detail Drawings 29
10 Summary 61
11 References 62
© INCA Ltd 2015 all rights reserved www.inca-ltd.org.uk

1. Introduction
The Insulated Render and Cladding Association (INCA) is the recognised trade association for
the external wall insulation (EWI) industry in the UK, representing the major system designers, a
nationwide network of specialist installers and component suppliers. INCA also represents the
industry at a European level as the UK member of the European Association for External Thermal
Insulation Composite Systems (EAE).
External Thermal Insulation Composite Systems (ETICS), also referred to as EWI (External Wall
Insulation) or SWI (Solid Wall Insulation) systems, have been used in the UK for over five decades.
In line with the UK’s commitment to reduce carbon emissions, the use of EWI systems has
increased significantly in the last 5 to 10 years.
INCA is unrivalled when it comes to providing EWI experience and INCA members apply the
latest skills, innovations and techniques to deliver high quality new build and refurbishment
projects in the non-residential and domestic sectors. INCA has established a wide ranging body
of technical, installation and component information to promote industry best practice and raise
quality standards.
This document aims to outline best practice for clients, installers, main contractors, designers and
architects so that EWI systems are fit for purpose and installed to a high quality standard to reduce
the risk of failure. This document sets out an accepted minimum standard for all installations, looks
to standardise many details that occur on site, and provides useful information on the components
that contribute to a finished system.
The objective of this guide is to ensure:
• that works undertaken are of a quality that will enable the EWI system to provide a thermal
upgrade, be aesthetically pleasing, and last for the design life that it has been assessed
to achieve
• that the industry’s clients, including architects, contractors and local authorities, are well
informed to enable the correct choice of system so that every project whatever the size is
delivered to the right standard
• planning, systems and products, design and detailing and installations are of high quality and
to highlight the importance of the whole system concept.
EWI systems are a key measure in improving the thermal performance of buildings but they
are only as good as the planning, systems and products, design and detailing and installation.
It should be noted that this document sets out a minimum standard and system designers,
contractors and suppliers are encouraged to exceed this standard by adding further improvements
to details where appropriate.
It is important that all of the project stakeholders work in a holistic manner to examine the
costs and benefits of each EWI detail. Budget constraints or access restrictions may preclude
replacement of windows / doors, cladding of stepped gables and extension of roofs etc. however
it is important to note that if the thermal envelope is upgraded with areas left as cold bridges this
may lead to issues of localised surface condensation and also reduction in the effectiveness of
the applied insulation. Following the review of the details the client should always be aware of the
implications of not adopting the best practice and can therefore make a judgement on how best
to proceed.
NB: This document will refer to System Designer, which can also be referred to as System Supplier.
The System Designer is the ‘designer of the system’ and should not be confused with being the
project designer.
© INCA Ltd 2015 all rights reserved 4 www.inca-ltd.org.uk

2. Statutory Bodies
2.1 Planning Permission

The criteria for Planning Permission set out on the Government’s Planning Portal indicates that for
external walls:
‘You do not need to apply for planning permission for repairs, maintenance or minor improvements,
such as painting your house.
If you live in a listed building, you will need listed building consent for any significant works whether
internal or external.
If you live in a Conservation Area, National Park, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or the Broads,
you will need to apply for planning permission before cladding the outside of your house with
stone, artificial stone, pebble dash, render, timber, plastic or tiles.
Outside these areas, cladding may be carried out without having to first apply for planning
permission provided the materials are of a similar appearance to those used in the construction of
the house.’1
It is recommended that the Local Authority Planning Office is contacted to ascertain if there is a
need to apply for planning permission. For larger schemes, the Housing Association should be able
to provide advice if a Planning Application has been submitted and granted.
2.2 Building Regulations
Information on Building Regulations applications is also contained on the Planning Portal and
again advice should be sought from the Local Authority, however general advice is as follows:
‘If you want to re-render or replace timber cladding to external walls, building regulations may apply
depending on the extent of the work.
Where 25 per cent or more of an external wall is re-rendered, re-clad, re-plastered or re-lined
internally or where 25 per cent or more of the external leaf of a wall is rebuilt, the regulations would
normally apply and the thermal insulation would normally have to be improved.’1
www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/commonprojects/externalwalls
1

3. EWI System Type Overview
3 EWI System Type Overview

The image below provides an overview of the components used in all EWI systems. Each system
can vary, therefore the system designer should be consulted to determine the build up and
sequence for the components relevant to their system.
5
6
4
2
1 3
1 Substrate
2 Adhesive - if applicable to system
3 Fixing through insulation - alternatively fixing through the mesh
4 Insulation board
5 Base coat
6 Embedded mesh
7 Base coat
8 Final finish

4. System Components
Each EWI system comprises of a number of components which are common throughout the
sector, but are carefully selected to complete system compatibility.
INCA supports the system loyalty approach and this is considered best practice. Each component
should be supplied by the system designer, to the project specification. This ensures that
only products tested and approved by statuary test centres and accreditation bodies are used,
and that safeguards are in place throughout the supply chain and for the general performance of
the system.
Components required for each system can generally be found listed on either the system
designer’s specification, price list or system accreditation documents.
Each EWI system will consist of the following components:
• Insulation
• Mechanical Anchors / Fixings
• Adhesive Renders
• Reinforcement Basecoats and Reinforcement Mesh / Lath
o Polymer Modified Cement Basecoat renders, or Organic non-cementicious basecoats
o Polypropylene / Glass fibre mesh, metal lath
• Primers
• Surface finishes
• Beads, trims and flashings.
The list above is a generic list of components so always refer to the system designer specification
and Accreditation for the system build up.
4.1 Insulation
The insulation forms the main thermal layer as well as being the background for applying the
basecoat and finishes to.
Various types and thicknesses are available (see section 5), with the choice being dependant on
the required thermal performance, zoning, location and cost.
Boards are fixed either directly with adhesive, with mechanical anchors, or a combination of both.
The system designer should provide existing and proposed U-value (thermal) calculations to verify
that the chosen insulation will meet Building Regulation requirements.
4.2 Mechanical Anchors / Fixings
Mechanical anchors form a key element of most EWI systems. Fixings are specified to suit the
existing substrate, the height and shape of the building, its location and elevation, and proximity to
other buildings.
Fixings should be specified by the system designer, and calculations made to check the pull-out
value of the specified fixings. All mechanical anchor suppliers will provide printed literature with
characteristic pull-out values and these can be used to specify the fixings, however best practice
would be to check the site pull-out value and carry out wind and fixing analysis calculations based
on these findings against localised conditions. This is the approved method to ensure the correct
fixings and quantity are used.

It is then critical that the correct specified quantity and pattern of fixings is used on site. When
using dubbing or levelling coats, care should be taken to ensure that the minimum embedment
depth of the fixing is maintained. In some cases a longer fixing maybe required. Fixings should be
of an approved type, and should have a minimum washer diameter of 60mm. For more information
please refer to ‘INCA Technical Paper - A Guide to Wind and Fixing Calculations’2.
4.3 Adhesive Renders
Adhesive renders are used in conjunction with adhesively fixed systems or as a supplementary
adhesive to mechanically fixed systems. Adhesive renders are applied to the rear of the board in
either a dot and dab method, with the perimeter of the board being coated, or with a serrated edge
trowel to the entire back area of the insulation board.
4.4 Reinforcement Basecoats and Reinforcement Mesh / Lath
Most basecoats used for refurbishment works to insulation boards are polymer modified cement
based renders, and have been formulated to be thinner than standard sand and cement renders,
whilst achieving an acceptable bond strength to the insulation boards, which is proven by testing.
These basecoats are weatherproof and can accommodate varying degrees of thermal movement,
however it is still recommended that movement joints are also allowed for.
Thicknesses vary dependant on the system designer however general guidance would be 6mm
overall as a minimum, which is built up in two layers with the first layer reinforced with a glass fibre
mesh, or mesh cloth.
In some circumstances the polymer modified cement renders can be substituted for lime-based
renders, however this is uncommon. If a lime-based render is required, then it is recommended
that the system designer be contacted for further advice.
Reinforcement basecoats vary considerably across the market for EWI systems. Reinforcement
basecoats are used to carry a mesh or reinforcement lath over the top of the insulation layer. The
reinforcement layer can be used to enhance weatherproofing, provide impact resistance to the
system and spread all stresses across the façade surface into the insulation below.
There are three common types of reinforcement layers:
Thick coat traditional renders with metal lath reinforcement:
• Traditional form for structural reinforcement
• Typically 20mm-30mm thickness
• Fixings generally fixed through the lath
• Offers superior impact resistance to thin coat cement renders
• Skilled fitting required due to sharp metal lath
• Thick coat render enables accommodation of more surface undulation in insulation boards
• Requires water and mixing.
Thin coat polymer cement render with glass fibre mesh:
• Many systems in the UK use this method
• Typically 6mm-10mm thickness, although organic basecoats vary
• Polymers used to improve strength and provide more effective stress transfer into
mesh and insulation
• Many reinforcement mortars are often the adhesive as well
• Mesh easier to handle than metal lath
• Requires water and mixing.
www.inca-ltd.org.uk/documents/INCATechnicalGuide03WindLoadDesignConsiderationsforEWISystems.pdf
2

Thin coat polymer render with glass fibre mesh:

• Supplied ready mixed in pails
• Typically 3mm-6mm thickness, although some system basecoats are less than 6mm. Check
with system designer accreditation certificates
• Flexible and highly impact resistant
• Can be tinted for through coloured system
• To keep thickness lower substrate must be flat (EPS rasped)
• Air-dried so needs protection in winter period (low temperature grades available).
It should be noted that higher levels of impact resistance can be achieved with higher density
meshes, additional mesh layers or using non-cement based basecoats.
4.5 Finishes
The surface finish chosen provides added weather proofing properties, but ultimately the final
aesthetic look of the building.
There are many finish types:
• Acrylic textures
• Silicone textures
• Dry dash
• Wet dash
• Mineral renders
• Brick effect renders
• Acrylic brick slips
• Real brick slips.
Each system designer will have its own range of material types and effects and each finish
provides a different look, however each will have specific criteria on application, location
and height.
This document considers three types of binders for finishes:
• Acrylic finishes (organic or synthetic)
• Silicone resin finishes (organic or synthetic)
• Cement, lime or silicate finishes (mineralic).
Each material has different qualities and the table on the next page indicates the material
properties to assist in the correct choice relevant to each application. It is the responsibility
of the system designer to provide the correct finish for each application by means of a
product specification.

Properties \ Binder Lime Cement Silicate Acrylic Silicone

Resin Resin
Adhesion 3 3 33 333 333
Water Repellency 7 7 3 33 333
Vapour Permeability 333 333 333 3 33
Crack Resistance 7 7 3 333 33
Weather Protection 3 3 33 333 333
Durability 3 3 33 333 333
Algae Resistance 3 7 3 33 333
Cost £ £ £££ ££ ££££
NB: The table above should be read in general terms, as some manufacturers will provide
cementitious mortars with hydrophobic qualities and additives to promote similar qualities to those
of synthetic renders.
There are many different finish options available for use with EWI systems. Some of the common
types are set out below.
4.5.1 Textured / Rilled thin coat finishes (1mm – 6mm)
These are generally available with acrylic, silicone resin, silicate or cement binders. They are tinted
and generally consist of aggregate in a white or coloured binder. Either applied with a stainless
trowel or sprayed, they can be applied in large areas although all textured finishes must be hand
finished using a flexible plastic float. As the binders can vary between organic (synthetic) or
mineralic, the properties of the finish material also vary greatly with changing formulation. The most
common size of texture specified tends to be 1.5mm-2mm as this is the smallest surface grain that
can start to disguise the hand applied nature of the basecoats in poor lighting conditions. Mineralic
versions of this type of product are normally recommended for over painting.
4.5.2 Dry dash finish (6mm – 8mm plus aggregate)
These are available with mineralic (cement) binders, and acrylic or silicone resin materials. A dash
receiver provides a through coloured render as a substrate for applying a dash aggregate finish,
both available in a wide range of colours and sizes. The resulting finish is very good in exposed
environments as it can effectively deflect and drain wind driven rain. It is also a very durable finish
that discourages human contact and is impact resistant. Rough aggregate finishes can also be
provided with clear acrylic polymer binders containing crushed decorative aggregates.
4.5.3 Scratched render finishes (6mm – 10mm)
These are available with mineralic (cement / lime) binders. They offer a colour effect in mostly
pastel shades with a dressed stone appearance. This finish is resistant to small impacts and scuffs
as it is through coloured. Some finishes form the reinforcement coating for reduced coating time.

4.6 Beads, Trims and Flashings

All EWI systems require the use of beads and trims. These will be dependant on the design and
particular project. In general terms the beads and trims form the junctions and closers to the
system, therefore it is imperative that these are both specified and installed correctly.
Most beads and trims are available in UPVC, aluminium, galvanised or stainless steel and can also
be polyester powder coated.
Key junctions such as starter tracks should always be present and elevations with large expansive
areas of EWI should allow for movement joints or expansion beads. These beads should be in
accordance with system designer guidance or replication where present in substrate.
Detailing of window reveals should indicate if a stop bead is required. Sills and flashings should be
installed so that they provide sufficient overhang to shed water away from the face of the finished
system. Best practice is to allow for a minimum of 40mm overhang to the throat or drip. For more
information please refer to ‘BS13914:1:2005’3.
Detailing of these elements is critical, and if a detail occurs on site that requires bespoke-designed
trims the installer should contact the system designer for advice.
In coastal locations, due to the increased airborne salts, it is recommended that stainless steel
starter tracks are used, and exposed beads are either stainless steel or PVCu. Each system
designer should be contacted to provide guidance for coastal applications.
Other bespoke systems are available, such as insulated fascia trims, fence post brackets, satellite
dish box brackets, hanging basket brackets, washing line brackets, however these additional items
should be discussed with the client / owner, and costs adjusted.
3
BS EN 13914-1:2005 Part 1: External Renderings

5. Insulation Materials
There are various insulation materials available, each with their own installation requirements,
K-values and compositions:
• White expanded polystyrene
• Grey (Enhanced) expanded polystyrene
• Phenolic
• Polyisocyanurate (PIR)
• Mineral (Stone) wool / glass wool
• Cork
• Wood fibre insulation.
5.1 Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) - White and Grey (Enhanced)

Product Description
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is a lightweight, rigid, plastic foam insulation material. It is a cost-
effective, easy-to-use insulation for EWI applications. As the structure of EPS consists of 98%
air, its initial thermal properties are maintained throughout its working life. It is non-toxic, moisture
resistant and rot proof.
Products Available
EPS is supplied in standard white material and an enhanced thermal performance (low lambda)
material which is in most cases grey in colour. A wide range of thicknesses are available to achieve
the thermal values required.
Suitability
• Low rise applications up to 18m
• High Rise application if BR135 classification achieved
• Coastal locations.
Handling and Storage
• Easy to cut using a fine tooth saw or hot wire cutter
• 100% recyclable
• Durable, not affected by short exposure to UV or rain. Long term exposure can cause slight
discolouration, but does not affect the thermal performance
• Should be stored in original packaging, on a flat, covered protected surface
• Should be kept away from solvents
• Should not be exposed to naked flame.
Specifics
• EPS is classed as combustible, however combustibility is limited due to retardants present
• Has a high K-value when compared with other insulations
• The use of a fine tooth saw or hot knife is recommended to reduce the creation of
loose material
• The surface can be ‘rasped’ on site to remove level differences on boards.

5.2 Phenolic
Product Description
Phenolic foam is a closed cell insulation with very good lambda values, which makes it the
most thermally efficient insulation on the market. The cells are formed by the evaporation of a
high-performance blowing agent, which has negligible global-warming potential and zero ozone
depletion potential, leading to a better thermal value than other insulations. It is easy to use, and
has good fire resistance properties, although is not classed as non-combustible.
Products available
A wide range of thicknesses are available to achieve the thermal values required.
Suitability
• Easy to cut using a fine tooth saw
• Recycling scheme available
• Should be stored in original packaging, on a flat, covered, protected surface
• Should be kept dry
Specifics
• Phenolic is classed as combustible, however combustibility is limited due to retardants
present
• Offers the best K-value of all the insulations available, meaning thinner boards required
• Manufacturers guidance should be followed for correct application
• Should not be left exposed for long periods of time to direct sunlight and rain
• Should not be used if effected by rain until it has been dried out and assessed as being fit
for purpose.
5.3 Polyisocyanurate (PIR)

Product Description
PIR foam is a closed cell insulation, with good lambda values. The cells are formed by the
evaporation of a high-performance blowing agent, which has negligible global-warming potential
and zero ozone depletion potential, leading to a better thermal value than other insulations. It is
easy to use, and has good fire resistance properties, although is not classed as non-combustible.
Products available
Suitability
• Low rise applications
• High rise applications in conjunction with BR135 classification


• Recyclable
• Should be kept dry
Specifics
• PIR is classed as combustible, however combustibility is limited due to retardants present
• Offers good K-values, meaning thin boards required
• Should not be left exposed for long periods of time to direct sunlight and rain
• Should not be used if effected by rain until it has been dried out and assessed as being
fit for purpose.
5.4 Mineral (Stone) Wool / Glass Wool
Product Description
Mineral (stone) wool or glass fibre insulation is manufactured from molten rock or silica sand
heated and blown to form thin fibres with binders and oils to produce an insulation with good
thermal properties, but excellent fire resistant properties, and is classed as on-combustible.
It is easy to use, and is the only insulation to be classed as non-combustible.
Products available
Suitability
• High rise applications
• Recyclable
• Should be kept dry.
Specifics
• Mineral wool is classed as non-combustible, giving it superior fire resistant properties
• Offers good K-values
• Should not be left exposed for long periods of time to rain
• Should not be used if effected by rain until it has been dried out and assessed as being
fit for purpose
• It is recommended by the manufacturer to limit the area of application of the boards and to
basecoat at the earliest chance to avoid the boards becoming wet
• Boards have water repellent properties and can resist the ingress of water to the face.

5.5 Cork
Product Description
Cork insulation is a relatively new insulation to the EWI market. It is 100% natural with a cellular
structure which makes it a natural insulator. Cork has natural fire inhibitors making it fire-retardant
but is classed as combustible. Cork also has a good thermal value.
Products available
Suitability
• High rise applications in conjunction with BR135 classification
• Recyclable and renewable
• Biodiverse
• Durable, mould resistant and non-toxic
• Lightweight
• Rot proof
• Should be kept dry.
Specifics
• Cork has natural fire retardant properties but is classed as combustible
• Offers good K-values
• Boards have water repellent properties and can resist the ingress of water to the face
• A+ rating in the Green Guide to Specification.
5.6 Wood Fibre Insulation
Product Description
Wood fibre insulation is manufactured from wood chippings and natural binders. It is both vapour
permeable and hygroscopic. It is easy to use, and gives good lambda values.
Products available
A wide range of thicknesses are available to achieve the required thermal values.
Suitability


• Easy to cut using a fine tooth saw, circular saw or reciprocating saw
• Recyclable and compostable
• Should be stored on a flat covered protected surface
• Whilst in storage the boards should be stored flat, kept dry and protected from damage
• If the boards get wet, they must be allowed to dry prior to applying the render.
Specifics
• Vapour permeable and hygroscopic
• Good thermal mass properties, so heat is stored and then released as the temperature drops
• Manufactured from a natural and sustainable material, which locks up CO2
• Manufacturer’s guidance should be followed for correct application.
5.7 Extruded Polystyrene (XPS)

XPS is an closed cell extruded polystyrene insulation, with good thermal and water resisting
properties, whilst having a high compressive strength. A wide range of thicknesses are available to
achieve the thermal values required.
Suitability
• Coastal locations
• Below ground applications.
• Easy to cut using a fine tooth saw or hot wire cutter
• 100% recyclable
• Durable, not affected by short exposure to UV or rain
• Should be stored in original packaging, on a flat, covered protected surface
• Should be kept away from solvents
Specifics
• XPS is classed as combustible, however combustibility is limited due to retardants present
• Has a high K-value when compared with other insulations
• Can react to PVC cables and cause cables to become brittle, therefore a conduit should
be used.

6. System Accreditations
and Approvals
It is considered best practice that all EWI systems are covered by a recognised certification and
accreditation, such as:
• British Board of Agrément (BBA) Certificate
• European Technical Approval (ETA) Certificate
• Local Authority Building Control (LABC) Approval.
6.1 European Co-operation for Accreditation (EA)
As the official guardian of the European accreditation infrastructure, EA has the overall strategic
objective to safeguard the value and credibility of accredited conformity assessment services
delivered by its members and accredited conformity assessment bodies within the European
market. Scottish Regulation 8 0.8.2 best defines EA as the umbrella organisation for all National
Accreditation bodies in Europe.
6.2 National Accreditation Bodies
The National Accreditation body for the UK is the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS),
for Germany it is the Deutsche Akkreditierungsstelle GmbH (DAkkS), for Ireland the Irish National
Accreditation Board (INAB) and for the Netherlands Raad voor Accreditatie (RvA).
6.3 Certification / Approval Bodies
For the UK the certification body for EWI with rendering to ‘ETAG 004 – Guideline for European
Technical Approval’ is the British Board of Agrément (BBA). For Germany it is the Deutsches
Institute für Bautechnik (DIBt), for Ireland it is the National Standards Authority Ireland (NSAI) and
for the Netherlands it is IKOB BKB.
These approval bodies are members of the European Organisation for Technical Assessment
(EOTA) and also the European Union for Technical Approval (UEAtc).
6.4 Certification and Approvals
Each member can certify a product or a system not only to its own national standards / regulations
but also European Technical Assessments. European Technical Approval Guidelines (ETAGs) were
used as the basis for European Technical Approvals. As of 1 July 2013 no further ETAGs will be
developed, however ETAGs remain valid and can be used as a European Assessment
Document (EAD).
Following the Construction Products Regulations (EU/305/2011), from 1 July 2013 European
Assessment Documents became recognized as a harmonized technical specification. The EAD is
the basis for the issuing of European Technical Assessments.
The European Technical Assessment provides a basis for CE marking of construction products
enabling the product to be placed anywhere in the EU market. Whilst separate standards exist in
relation to Building Regulations that apply to England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, in
respect of materials and workmanship, each country adopts the same methods regarding ways of
establishing the fitness of materials.
For more information please refer to the following documents:
• The Building Regulations 2010 - 2013 Editions (for England and Wales)
• Regulation 7 - Materials and Workmanship
• The Scottish Regulations 8 - Durability, Workmanship and Fitness of Materials
• Northern Ireland Technical Booklet B - Materials and Workmanship.

6. System Accreditations and Approvals
Each country harmoniously identifies the following methods of establishing fitness of materials
using the following processes, published standards and certification schemes:
• CE Marking under the Construction Products Regulation
• CE Marking under other EU Directives
• British Standards
• Other national and international technical specifications
• Independent Certification Schemes
• Tests and calculations
• Past experience
• Sampling.
6.5 BBA / UKAS Accredited Approved Installer Scheme

The approved installer scheme provides fully accredited, independent inspection services across
the UK. Unprejudiced inspectors provide expert, unbiased information on a range of products and
their installation in the construction industry.
The scheme is monitored to UKAS ISO:17020 accreditation allowing the inspection of BBA or
UKAS approved installers and installers operating under client managed schemes, as well as
surveillance visits carried out on behalf of the government endorsed Competent Person and
TrustMark schemes4.
4
http://www.bbacerts.co.uk/installer-approval/

7. System Installation
7.1 Pre-Works Inspections

Approved Installer
The Installation is to be completed by an approved installer organisation, using suitably skilled
and experienced operatives. Operatives from the approved installer organisation must be trained,
assessed and approved by the EWI system certificate holder / system designer.
Site Survey, Pre Installation Survey and Preliminary Work
Survey and preparation of the building is key to obtaining a successful specification and finished
installation. If this is done incorrectly the success of the EWI system and / or the existing fabric will
be at risk.
To correctly specify which insulation system to use, the existing wall construction should be
determined and understood, to allow an existing U-Value to be calculated.
Visiting the site is essential before works are commenced in order to survey the building and
elevations that are to receive the system. This is done to determine what remedial work needs to
be carried out (if required) prior to the EWI Installation starting.
Preparing the substrate in order to receive the chosen EWI system is extremely important, if the
substrate is not prepared to receive the chosen system as intended then this can have severe
implications on the performance and aesthetics of the system i.e. if the wall is not straight or
plumb then the overall finish will not be straight or plumb as the system will follow the contour of
the existing substrate. It should also be noted that render is a hand applied finish.
It is always recommended that the following is undertaken prior to the application of an
EWI system:
• Check for rising damp and the causes
• Check for existing movement joints and make provision to reflect this in the new installation
• Check for efflorescence (lime bloom) or if similar problems have been treated and remedied
that the masonry has dried out sufficiently
• Test the walls for any defects
• Test the existing substrate for pull out loads so that fixing type and quantities can be
determined
• Carry out a line and level survey to determine if a dubbing out or levelling coat is required
• Remove moss, lichen, mould, and treat with an anti-fungicidal wash if required
• Identify any unusual detailing issues
• Determine if any architectural features need preserving or re replicating in order to be
repositioned and placed within / on the new EWI system
• Evaluate access to the property, heights of the building and security of tenants
• Contact the local planning department to evaluate if planning permission is required,
although recently planning permission for EWI has been relaxed still check with the planning
department as this is of particular importance if the property is situated in a conservation area
or area of outstanding natural beauty or if the property is listed etc.
• Contact local building control authority, unless using an installer organisation who is part of a
SWI Person Scheme (CPS) who can self certify their work complies with building regulations
without the need for a separate assessment by building control
• Discuss finishes, colours and textures with the client / interested parties

• Ensure that the contractor is aware that the eaves and roof zone should have adequate
insulation to avoid cold bridging at these junctions
• Evaluate the need for repositioning of or temporary removal and / or extension of services
such as overhead electricity, TV, telephone and broadband connections / equipment, gas or
oil pipe work, electricity or gas meters, lights, rainwater goods etc.
Once the building survey / pre installation survey has been completed, drawings and specifications
for each elevation that is to receive an EWI system are to be prepared and instigated prior to the
project starting.
The drawings and specification would include some or all of the following:
• Position of starter tracks and render beads
• Position and amount of reinforcement scrim, corner mesh and scrim patches for corners /
corners of openings
• Detailing around doors, windows, eaves, projecting balconies, coping details and special
details such as abutments, extensions (robust standard solution / typical design details are
available from the system certificate holder / system designer)
• Damp proof course level
• Location and type of weather seals to be used
• Areas where silicone sealants are to be used
• Position of fire barriers (if required)
• Type of system to specify
• Location of movement joints
• Location and positioning of beads and trims
• Flashing details
• Window and door sill details
• Architectural features i.e. quoins, external cornicing , stringers, keystones, window headers,
window sills, window architraves , corbels, arches, flat bands, raised or recessed bands,
ashlar cuts and columns etc.
• Coping details and special details such as abutments, extensions
• Attachments such as gates and fences, clothes lines and satellite dishes.
The systems should be continuous, as breaks can create cold bridging and junctions
are potential weak zones for moisture ingress. The system designer should engage with the
installation contractor and attend site, where possible, to undertake a project inspection on
the installed system.
Electrical Power Distribution Cables
Electrical power distribution, whether via overhead cable or siamesed from an adjacent property
is often clipped to the outside face of external walls. These cables are high voltage and are
unprotected by circuit breakers. They must not be touched by anyone other than the Distribution
Authorities. The acceptable solution to overcome issued caused by cables fixed to walls where
EWI is required is very much dependent on the local Power Distribution Authority’s requirements.
The first stage is therefore to agree beforehand how to work around the cables. Historically, some
have simply allowed the cables to be covered. This however is less acceptable now, because of
health and safety concerns. Occasionally, Power Distributors will take a pragmatic view, and use
the opportunity to renew ageing cables immediately after the EWI works are undertaken; allowing
them to be temporarily covered and with provision being created for new surface mounted cabling
in the vicinity.
Other Power Distributors take a harder line to covering cables, even temporarily, but are happy to
co-ordinate the replacement of the cables along with the EWI work. In these instances a patch is
inevitably required, which is more acceptably completed with a brick or other contrasting detail.

The costs of the cable repositioning works also depends on the approach of the Power Distributor.
Older cables are often moved free of charge, but if they are not due for renewal, then a fee is
generally necessary. Either way, in order to influence the Power Distributors timeframe so that
it fits-in with your programme depends on the strength of your relationship with them. An early
dialogue is critical to this development.
Where there is no option to relocate a cable to another position, and covering is unacceptable, the
only option is to leave an uninsulated trough in which the cable runs. This trough might be covered
with a plate to minimise the aesthetic appearance. Again the Power Distribution authority will
advise on the acceptability and specification of the plate, e.g. whether PVCu or other non-metal
product, solid or perforated, etc. For details see Section 9.
7.2 Cleaning and Priming / Pre-treatment of the Substrate
Before applying an EWI system, the wall should also be checked for dirt, grime, algae etc, and
measures taken to clean the surface. Once cleaned with a power wash, and if required mild
detergent, the wall should be allowed to fully dry out. Once dry the wall is ready to accept the EWI
system, or (if specified) a primer, to allow for increased adhesion for adhesive renders.
7.3 Checking Existing Rendered Finishes
If a building has an existing rendered finish, guidance from the system designer should be sought.
If the render is in a poor condition, then it is best practice to remove the render using a hammer
drill. If areas of render are thought to be loose then these should also be hammer tested and
render removed locally. Any rendered areas that have been removed, should be made good with
either sand and cement or a proprietary render repair system.
Guidance should always be sought from the system designer in case the existing render is
damaging the existing wall by trapping water, transmitting damp, and not allowing the existing
building to breathe.
7.4 Pull-out Testing of Mechanical Anchors
Prior to commencing any project it is recommended that pull-out tests for the specified fixings are
undertaken. On discussion with the system designer and fixing manufacturer, it may be that fixings
used into a common solid wall can be accepted by way of tabulated data, however it is good
practice to ensure that mechanical anchors / fixings are checked for suitability.
Pull-out tests are carried out using a Hydrajaws fixing tester to test the load or pull out value of the
fixing. It is recommended that a minimum of 15 tests are carried out per project, or an acceptable
spread of results for larger projects.
7.5 Pull-off Testing for Adhesive Fixed Systems
The purpose of the test is to measure the maximum tensile strength of the render and other
overlying materials on the substrate. The test sample is subjected to increasing tensile stress until
failure occurs. The weakest path could be along an interface between two layers or a cohesive
facture within one layer or a combination of these.
The test method is generally seen to be conducted using a 50mm diameter plate with the adhesive
render applied, to which a load measure is applied and the pull off value taken at failure.
This test should be undertaken when using adhesive only fixed systems, or a combination of
adhesive with supplementary mechanical anchors.

7.6 Working Sequences

It is crucial that an installer plans the working sequence in line with site requirements, resource,
system specification, and weather conditions.
Checks should be made on the line and level of any existing building, and recommendations
made to the client. Should it be found that if directly fixed the system will suffer due to the uneven
surface of the wall, this should be noted prior to commencement of works.
The site operatives should familiarise themselves with the project specification and details prior to
works commencing.
An assessment of the building should be undertaken to ensure all relevant details have been
reviewed, and provided. Should there be reason for additional details, then the installer should
notify the system designer for advice.
At the completion of each day’s work, or whenever work is interrupted for extended periods of
time, board edges and joints should be protected from inclement weather.
In addition to the normal reasons why works may be interrupted, such as weekends, public
holidays, programming considerations etc. adverse weather conditions can also be a factor.
Some components of EWI systems have limitations on temperatures between which they can be
installed, as well as additional requirements which can involve limiting exposure to precipitation
or strong sunlight (particularly in warmer climates) during installation to control rates of drying, or
prevent excess moisture being trapped within the system.
Therefore, to protect un-finished systems during a break in works, or from on-going adverse
weather conditions temporary weather protection may be required to protect installed components
which are not fully weatherproofed.
To provide protection from exposure during extended breaks within the installation process, with
regards to interruptions on site, and protection of components which are not fully weatherproofed
from inclement weather.
The precise nature of this protection may vary depending on the cause of the requirement for the
temporary protection (e.g. to provide shading, or to protect from precipitation), the area of system
required to be protected and the expected timescale over which it would be expected to be in
place, although may typically include the use of items such as opaque tarpaulin / damp proof
membranes or rolls of nylon-reinforced polyethylene plastic temporarily restrained to the structure
or scaffolding. In practical terms the actual protection provided will vary based upon the specific
nature of the project and construction site, and responsibility in this regard should be managed by
the project team in consultation with the EWI system supplier.
Base coat application should only be carried out when the weather is fine and free from rain. It is
recommended to carry out a daily check on the weather forecast, for a minimum of 48 hours prior
to the proposed application of wet renders.
Base cementitous render application should be in two coats and incorporate a scrim reinforcement
layer between them and completed with a finishing coat. All render coats should be strictly applied
in accordance with the system supplier’s accreditation and their current application guidance,
paying particular attention to thickness and cure times between layers.
Minimum total render thicknesses should not generally drop below 6mm. However, this advice is
not intended to supersede or negate existing advice from the system certificate holders / system
designers / suppliers.
Finishing coats should be applied out of direct sunlight, and shielded from direct heavy winds.
This will avoid the finishes curing too quickly and potential cracking occurring.

7.7 Bonding / Fixing Insulation

Boarding works should only occur in dry conditions, and boards should be protected from adverse
weather, direct sunlight and possible impact damage.
Boards should be laid in a staggered pattern, and should be staggered at the edges of buildings so
that they form a toothed finish.
Generally boards should be cut in an L shape around the corners of openings, and small cuts of
boards should not be allowed. Minimum cuts will vary from system supplier, however it would be
best practice to limit cuts to a minimum of 200mm.
Gaps in boards should be limited, and should be filled with expanding foam, or mineral wool
slithers should they occur.
Boards should be level so that the basecoat and decorative finish are installed on a flat true
surface. Levelling of boards can be undertaken with adhesive renders or dubbing out renders, and
should be assessed at contract stage and allowed for within the contract costs.
Adhesive renders should be applied to the rear of the board, and should follow either a dot and
dab method, with renders to the board edges, or a fully applied adhesive using a serrated trowel.
This will be subject to the system designer’s recommendations.
Mechanical anchors should be as those specified within the project specification, and comply with
the system designers fixing pattern. The correct quantity of fixings should be used. Fixings should
be installed at a true 90 degrees from the wall face, and the washer head sitting flush with the
board face. Fixings that are seen to be installed at an angle should be assessed and may have to
be discounted and additional fixings installed.
7.8 Base Coat Application
Base coat application should only be carried out when the weather is fine and free from rain. It is
recommended to carryout a daily check on the weather forecast, for a minimum of 48 hours prior
to the proposed application of system designers.
7.9 Meshes
The application of any mesh should occur at the first basecoat stage, when using a thin coat
system. Meshes for the thick coat system are generally metal laths types and are fixed to the
insulation prior to first base coat.
Polypropylene or glass fibre meshes should be installed into the wet basecoat, using the back of
a steel trowel and pushed in, so that they sit in the top third. Meshes should be continuous, and
should have a minimum 100mm (10cm) lap with the adjacent mesh. Any meshes that are integral
to beads and trims should also allow for 100mm (10cm) lapping. This ensures strength
and continuity of the basecoat.
A second basecoat is then applied, and there should be no visual sign of the mesh once this
is applied.
Once the basecoat has been applied, it should be left to cure in its appropriate state to receive the
final finish i.e. suitably scarified in the case of thick coat finishes or sponged for fine textures.

7.10 Finishes
System designer guidance should be sought on each particular finish and the application.
However, in general terms, finishes should only be applied in good weather and within ambient
temperatures (5-30 degrees), although some finishes may have a winter working additive provided.
Finishes should be stored in areas that can achieve a constant temperature, and should not
drop below five degrees. Acrylic and silicone textures contain water which can freeze should the
temperature drop below zero degrees and damage the material for use.
Powdered finishes will have water added, therefore temperature is also key when installing
powdered finishes. Should brick effect renders be applied in low temperatures, or when the
weather is damp, foggy or there is excessive moisture in the air, they can suffer from efflorescence
or lime bloom. This will cause a white powder on the surface of the finish, resulting from the
movement of the free limes in the cement. Although efflorescence does not unduly effect the
performance of the product, it can be unsightly.
Textured finishes should be applied with a steel trowel and rubbed with a plastic or nylon trowel to
‘reveal’ the aggregate. It is recommended that the installer should always follow a wet edge, and
should finish at a stop bead or movement joint.
It is also advised that care is taken when texturing around scaffold points. It is best practice to
have two operatives applying material above and below the scaffold point, and the wall rubbed up
at the same time in the same direction to avoid scaffold marks. Alternatively a stop bead should be
provided at scaffold level so that the finish can be applied in two separate applications, again to
avoid scaffold marks.
It is best practice to split a building elevation into workable sections, by way of movement joints
and stop beads. This is not always approved of by clients or designers, however to ensure a neat
finish this should be recommended.
Systems can be finished with a one coat render system, which should be installed as
recommended by the system designer. These one coat system are generally applied to a nominal
thickness of 14mm-16mm, and then scratched back to expose the aggregate. One coat renders
are also known as ‘monochouche’, referring to ‘one coat’. Always read the installation instructions,
and advice on acceptable application temperatures and weather conditions.
7.11 Beads and Trims
A full list of beads should be noted within the contract specification or price list. These beads
should be installed as per system designer recommendations and manufacturers guidance.
Beads should be fit for purpose, and installed by a competent person.
Trims at verges and eaves and soffits can be a concern, and these should be formed to ensure a
good watertight seal is provided. Should there be a detail that standard trims would struggle to
overcome, then it is recommended that site specific trims be allowed for and measured on site.

7.12 Sealants and Junctions

Many junctions are finished with a mastic sealant, however its use should be kept to a minimum.
Sealants are very versatile however they have a short life cycle and will need to be maintained
and replaced at regular intervals.
Each system designer will be able to provide a repair and maintenance programme, which will
identify the periodical checking and replacement of mastic seals.
The type that is recommended is a low modulus neutral cure external grade mastic, which has
greater flexibility that standard high modulus silicones.
It is recommended that the mastics are checked prior to use and the correct grade used.
Best practice would be to assess each junction and provide a longer term solution to preventing
water ingress. PPC trims are preferred as they will last for the life time of the system. Sealants
can be used, but only where a trim cannot be used.
Silicone mastic sealants can be installed either ‘within’ the rendered finish or on the exposed
surface. General good practice would be to apply the silicone into a prepared 5 / 6mm gap,
and filling the gap with the silicone or other approved elastomeric sealant, and the final finish
taken over the top. This is generally preferred when using thicker coat finishes such as dashing
aggregate, brick effect render, acrylic or clay brick slips. The preferred method of sealing should
be discussed with the system designer.

8. Evaluation of Completed
Installations
8.1 Inspecting Finished Systems

When inspecting finished systems, there are tools available to every client, installer or system
designer that can be used to determine if the finished system is to an acceptable standard.
The final aesthetics can be very subjective, therefore should the need arise ‘BS EN 13914-1:2005’5
provides a section on the final finished surface and how it should be reviewed for sign off.
The sections which should be reviewed and used on site are as follows.
8.1.1 Glancing Light Conditions
If the surface is to be inspected under glancing light conditions it should be stated in the
contract specification.
8.1.2 Viewing Conditions
When inspecting a finished externally rendered surface, it should be viewed in daylight, standing at
ground level, from a generally accessible viewing position. Where possible it should be viewed at a
distance of 10m with the sunlight, if any, not falling onto the surface in a glancing condition.
It is also acknowledged that certain finishes (such as brick effect renders) can suffer from drying-
out cracks or fissures, which although at times unsightly, do not have any adverse effect on the
overall performance of the system.
Cracks are defined as a crack which is greater in width than 0.2mm. Any cracks larger than this
size should be assessed accordingly.
It should be remembered that EWI systems and the renders and finishes are hand applied products
that will have an element of tolerance.
These tolerances are indicated within the National House Building Council (NHBC) document ‘A
consistent approach to finishes’6, which is a good aid to assessing final tolerance.
General checks should be made at the following areas:
• At the base of a starter track, at the rear to ensure no gaps occur which vermin
can access behind the system
• To the front of a starter track to ensure finish is neat and tidy
• General appearance of the texture, using the guidance above
• Tolerances using the guidance indicated in section 9.2
• Junctions at window reveals, sills and heads to ensure they are sealed correctly
• Overhang of the window sills to be min 40mm
• Junctions at eaves / soffit level, and at verge trim level to ensure jointing clips have been
used and junctions are fully sealed
• Parapet level to ensure sealed correctly
• Rear of a parapet, to ensure it has the correct flashing provided
• General tidiness of the work
• Finished work against project details.
5
S EN 13914-1:2005 Part 1: External Renderings
B
6
National House Building Council (NHBC) Technical Standards, 2011. Chapter 1.2 - A consistent approach to finishes

8. Evaluation of Completed Installations
8.2 Acceptable Tolerances

When checking accepted tolerances the following guidance should be adopted, however if a
client wishes to improve on this guidance, then this should be identified within the contract
documents. It should however be noted that the application of EWI and rendered finishes are
generally undertaken by hand. An allowance for this should always be accepted by the end user.
It would be recommended that a site retained sample panel, or pilot house be completed, and
approved as a benchmark for future application. Baseline guidance can be seen below, and should
be used for general assessments. Where EWI systems are being applied to domestic low rise
buildings, the system will follow the line of the existing building, unless agreed in writing with the
client beforehand.
Flatness
‘The maximum allowed vertical and horizontal deviation from flatness (excluding features) of the
render in any 5m section is ±8mm.’7
±8mm maximum
deviation
Reference
line
5m
‘Areas of render in close
proximity to features (e.g. bell
casts) are excluded from the
tolerance. Flatness is measured
±8mm maximum
deviation in a similar way to straightness
on plan and plumb of masonry.’7
Equal spacing
blocks
±8mm maximum vertical and horizontal deviation

from flatness
Appearance
‘Appearance should be considered for entire wall areas, panels, interfaces and the like and not
for individual units. Consequently the wall being considered should, where possible, be viewed in
daylight from a distance of not less than 10m.
Rendering on walls should be reasonably consistent in texture, finish and colour. Some hairline
cracking and crazing is likely to occur in both traditional and proprietary render systems. Such
cracking and crazing should not impair the performance of the render. Crazing, which may occur
in the render surface, should not be more than 0.2mm wide. There may be some colour variation
in appearance due to differences in suction of the background and orientation of the wall. Daywork
joints, patching and other repairs may be visible but should not be unduly obtrusive.’7
7
National House Building Council (NHBC) Technical Standards, 2011. Chapter 1.2 - A consistent approach to finishes

8. Evaluation of Completed Installations
8.3 British Standards

The following documents should be used for reference when preparing a contract specification,
and agreeing or reviewing completed works:
• NHBC: A consistent approach to finishes
• BS EN 998-1-2010 : Specification for Rendering and Plastering Mortars
• BS EN 13914-1: 2005 Part 1: External Renderings.
8.4 Using Installed Systems
When using an EWI system on an existing building, it should be noted that there may be a level
of residual moisture trapped within the structure through years of exposure which cannot be
accounted for when calculating condensation in accordance to BS 5250 : 2011. It should also
be noted that the majority of existing buildings where EWI systems are applied to are not air tight
and condensation is controlled by gaps in the structure / interface with windows, etc., not through
designed in ventilation such as trickle vents or mechanical ventilation. When designing a modern
building that is air tight, considerations to air movement are allowed for to minimise the risk of
condensation and these methods should also be considered in refurbishment schemes where
there is a known problem.
Once EWI has been installed, where walls have known high exposure and there is a risk of trapped
moisture or water ingress, any large items of furniture should be moved away from external walls to
prevent condensation build up behind them whilst the walls dry out. The occupants of the building
must also take ownership and be encouraged to engage in air movement. This can be simple
education of not closing trickle vents, ensuring air changes are made by opening windows in high
humidity rooms to allow trapped moisture to escape and / or ensuring mechanical ventilation is not
switched of and is allowed to carry out its function.
In most cases, condensation during the initial couple of heating cycles can be addressed through
simple changes of the occupants’ habits.

9. Detail Drawings
The details in this section provide what is regarded as a baseline for best practice. These details
aim to provide a consistent approach to on-site installation and aims to promote
good workmanship.
Always refer to the system designer details and project specific details if the system designer
wishes to further improve on these details.
The details provided are indicated with mechanical fixings and adhesive bond, all details can be
used with adhesive only and mechanical only system by omitting either component.
‘The Achilles heel of any installation can be the attention to bespoke details and appropriate
consultation with the system designer’ – INCA Contractor Member
Plinth / Starter Track – Mechanically Fixed System
A selected insulation is either

adhesively bonded, mechanically
fixed or with a dual fixed system,
dependent on system design.
Specified starter track should
be installed at existing DPC
level, with specified fixings at
correct centres. Starter tracks
should be installed against a flat
surface, with any gaps filled with
expanding foam, plastic trims,
or silicone sealant, however it
would be preferred to dub out
the wall locally to ensure full
contact with the wall and rear up
stand of the trim.
Trims are set 150mm above
ground level to reduce the
effects of ‘splash back’ of
rainwater, dirt and other
contaminants, however it is
advised that DPCs should not
be bridged.
Detail 1 – Plinth (mechanically fixed system)

9. Detail Drawings
Plinth / Starter Track – Adhesive Fix System
A selected insulation is
either adhesively bonded,
mechanically fixed or with a dual
fixed system, dependant on
system design.
Specified starter track should
be installed at existing DPC
level, with specified fixings at
correct centres. Starter tracks
should be installed against a flat
surface, with any gaps filled with
expanding foam, plastic trims,
or silicone sealant, however it
would be preferred to dub out
the wall locally to ensure full
contact with the wall and rear
up stand of the trim.
Trims are set 150mm above
ground level to reduce the
effects of ‘splash back’ of
rainwater, dirt and other
contaminants, however it is
advised that DPCs should not
be bridged.
Detail 2 – Plinth (adhesive fix system)

9. Detail Drawings
Plinth detail with Insulation Below DPC
The system should be installed

as previous details, and
starter track installed at existing
DPC level, or 150mm above
ground level.
For insulation below the DPC,
it is recommended that the
insulation thickness is less than
the main insulation, to create
a step and drip between the
two elements.
Insulation types should be
chosen that have low moisture
uptake properties, as specified
by system designers for each
particular project.
It is recommended that the
area adjacent to the plinth is
removed of any grass, or soil,
and replaced with paving slabs,
brick paving, stone chippings,
and if the water content of the
ground is high, allowance for a
land drain or soak away should
be considered.
Detail 3 – Plinth detail (insulation below DPC)

9. Detail Drawings
Window Sill Details

Should the project incorporate new replacement windows, the
frames and sills should be designed to take account of the
thickness of the EWI system to be applied.
Any new sills should be sized so that they allow for a min
40mm overhang to the face of the finished EWI system, and all
new windows should be installed prior to the installation of the
EWI system. Refer to BS13914:1:2005. It is recommended that
the EWI system is taken over the edges of the sill and frame,
so that the lapping provides a sound seal, silicone mastic
should be applied (see reveal details).
Detail 4 - New windows with

integral sill
Should the project retain the existing windows, it is generally

noted that the existing sills have insufficient overhang to allow
for sufficient shedding of water away from the face of the
finished system.
Should this be the case, then a new over sill profile can be
installed. These should be cut to suit each window, and
ideally have up stand wings, to enable the render to overlap
and provide a weather tight seal. The sills should be installed
so that there is a minimum of 40mm over hang from the
face of the finished system. Refer to BS13914:1:2005. All
junctions should be finished with a silicone mastic seal (see
reveal details).
Note:
When installing any over sill profile, it is important to consider
existing weep hole frame drainage, and the frame should be
either drilled to create new weep holes, or the under sill (detail
6 ) should be used.
Detail 5 - Existing windows and

sills with new over sill profile

9. Detail Drawings
Should the project retain the existing windows, it is generally

noted that the existing sills have insufficient overhang to
allow for sufficient shedding of water away from the face of
the finished system.
Should this be the case, then a new under sill profile can
be installed. These should be cut to suit each window, and
be mechanically fixed to the substrate. There should be a
minimum of 40mm overhang created from the face of the
finished render and any junctions finished with silicone
mastic sealant. Refer to BS13914:1:2005.
Detail 6 - Existing windows and

sills with new under sill trim
Should the project retain existing windows and there is

evidence of an existing feature either of a stone sill, or
brick feature, it would be recommended that a new sill be
installed over the existing feature and any voids filled with
expanding foam. The new insulation should be locally cut to
deal with the projecting feature, or a thinner board be used.
It should be noted that these details can vary considerably
on site, and there is a chance of a localised cold bridge
occurring. Clients should seek further guidance from the
system designer.
Detail 7 - Existing feature sills with

existing retained windows

9. Detail Drawings
Should the planning condition indicate that there should be

a replication of an existing stone sill, it should be considered
how to deal with a localised cold bridge.
It may be possible that the existing stone sill be removed, or
cut back and a new insulated GRP or similar ‘dummy’ sill be
installed which will enable the reduction of a cold
bridge occurring.
Detail 8 - New feature sill
Window / Door Reveal Details

All existing reveals should be
checked to ascertain the correct
detail to be used. It is important
that EWI systems are designed
to remove any chance of a cold
bridge occurring.
Frame margins should be
measured and if sufficient
margin. circa 50mm is found,
then there should be the
introduction of a minimum of
20mm high K value insulation
and render. The system to
Detail 9 - Reveal detail when window is set back from the frame junction should have a
face of the existing wall, where there is sufficient frame stop bead and silicone mastic
margin for the introduction of cold bridge insulation applied, or silicone mastic to
the base coat render and the
top coat installed over. Stop
bead and silicone mastic is the
preferred detail.

9. Detail Drawings
When the frames are surveyed

and found to be flush with the
existing face of the external wall,
the insulation board should over
sail the frame by min. 20mm
(or to allow cover of insulation
without fouling the opening
sash), and the render finish
returned to the frame, with the
approved junction finish, being
stop bead and silicone mastic or
a hidden mastic applied to the
base coat layer.
Detail 10 - Reveal detail when existing window frame is
flush with the existing wall face
The detail where no reveal

insulation is provided is not
ideal, and will cause localised
cold bridging, however it is
recognised that in certain
circumstances it can not be
avoided. Development of
proprietary insulated reveal trims
should be considered.
Note:
A cold bridge
will occur
Detail 11 - Reveal detail where existing frames are

retained, however there is insufficient frame margin for
cold bridge insulation
Frame margins should be

measured and if sufficient
margin circa 50mm is found,
then there should be the
introduction of a minimum of
20mm high K value insulation
and render. The system to
frame junction should have a
stop bead and silicone mastic
applied, or silicone mastic to
the base coat render and the
top coat installed over. Stop
bead and silicone mastic is the
preferred detail. Should there
Detail 12 - Reveal where projecting features occur be a projecting brick feature
insulation boards should be cut
or a thinner board be provided.

9. Detail Drawings
Window / Door Head Details
All existing heads should be checked to ascertain the

correct detail to be used. It is important that EWI
systems are designed to remove any chance of a cold
bridge occurring.
Frame margins should be measured and if sufficient
margin. circa 50mm is found, then there should be the
introduction of a minimum of 20mm high K value insulation
and render. The system to frame junction should have a
stop bead and silicone mastic applied, or silicone mastic
to the base coat render and the top coat installed over.
Stop bead and silicone mastic is the preferred detail.
Detail 13 - Head detail when

window is set back from the
face of the existing wall, where
there is sufficient frame margin
for the introduction of cold
bridge insulation
When the frames are surveyed and found to be flush with

the existing face of the external wall, the insulation board
should over sail the frame by min. 20mm (or to allow
cover of insulation without fouling the opening sash), and
the render finish returned to the frame with the approved
junction finish, being stop bead and silicone mastic or a
hidden mastic applied to the basecoat layer.
Detail 14 - Reveal detail when

existing window frame is flush
with the existing wall face

9. Detail Drawings
The detail where no head reveal insulation is provided is

not ideal, and will cause localised cold bridging, however
it is recognised that in certain circumstances it can not be
avoided. Development of proprietary insulated reveal trims
should be considered.
Note:
A cold bridge
will occur
Detail 15 - Head detail where

existing frames are retained,
however there is insufficient
frame margin for cold
bridge insulation
Frame margins should be measured and if sufficient margin

circa 50mm is found, then there should be the introduction
of a minimum of 20mm high K-value insulation and render.
The system to frame junction should have a stop bead and
silicone mastic applied, or silicone mastic to the base coat
render and the top coat installed over. Stop bead and silicone
mastic is the preferred detail. Should there be a projecting
brick feature insulation boards should be cut or a thinner
board be provided.
Detail 16 - Head where

projecting features occur

9. Detail Drawings
Door Base Return Detail

When starter tracks are installed,
jointing clips and meshed nosing
should be installed, and where
starter tracks meet a door
opening, the starter track should
over sail the insulation by the
depth of the reveal insulation
(generally 20mm), and locally
notched. A render only drip bead
should be installed and taken
back to the frame. This will allow
for closing of the system and a
neat reveal.
Detail 17 - Starter track detail at opening junction to a door
Bay Window Details Assessment of bay windows

should take place by the
chosen system designer as the
construction and design can
vary on a project and house-
to-house basis, however the
principle remains that the
opening sash should be allowed
to open, and the reduction of
a cold bridge allowed for. To
ensure this occurs it is standard
practice to chamfer cut the
insulation to form a 90 degree
angle from the window frame,
and ensure the render finishes
are taken over the frame and
finished with the approved
junction detail.
Detail 18 - Detail where system meets an existing bay window

9. Detail Drawings
When a system is installed over

an existing angles wall or bay
plinth, it is required that the
insulation is cut at an angle to
ensure a neat abutment. It is
also required that the starter
tracks are cut on site to form the
correct angle, ensuring that the
starter track base is consistent
and the insulation is fully
protected. Gaps may be filled
with expanding foam, or slivers
of mineral wool, if required.
Detail 19 - Detail at plinth of existing bay window
Where an existing soffit board

Note:
is retained, the system should
Roof Insulation
be taken tight against the
should be
underside, and a bead of
provided
silicone mastic applied.
It is imperative that the
contractor / client checks to
determine if there is evidence
of existing insulation within the
roof void that will ensure no
cold bridge will occur. Failure to
check this may result in localised
condensation and mould growth
to the top of the internal walls.
Detail 20 - Existing overhanging soffit

9. Detail Drawings
Existing flush fascia boards generally are

Note: retained. Best practice would be to remove
Roof Insulation and extend the roof line sufficiently to
should be accommodate the new EWI system, however
provided where this is not possible, a new trim should
be installed, mechanically fixed, and sealed
with silicone mastic. Trims should have a
minimum of 30mm-40mm drip overhang from
the face of the finished system and any joints
connected with proprietary jointing clips. Joints
should not be in filled with silicone mastic.
Insulated fascia and trim profiles are being
developed and should be considered. It is also
imperative to ensure insulation is evident within
the existing roof zone to avoid condensation
and mould growth.
Detail 21 - Existing flush fascia
When the existing flush fascias are retained,

Note: the existing gutter is generally retained,
Roof Insulation with the down pipe outlet also retained. It is
should be therefore recognised that the down pipe needs
provided to be adjusted using a swan neck connection.
Where this occurs there should be sufficient
protection to the edges of the insulation and
also a drip profile introduced to ensure water
is directed away from the face of the finished
system. Proprietary box profile systems are
Note: available and should be used, or a series of
A cold trims installed to create a sealed unit. Ideally
bridge will the rear of the unit should be insulated and
occur proprietary systems are being developed.
Detail 22 - Detail where existing flush fascia

retained and existing gutter and rainwater
down pipe are retained

9. Detail Drawings
Where the building has an existing

Note:
overhanging verge, or the verge has been
Roof Insulation
extended, the system should be taken
should be
tight up to the underside of the existing
provided
soffit board, and a silicone seal applied.
It is imperative that the contractor / client
checks to determine if there is evidence
of existing insulation within the roof void
that will ensure no cold bridge will occur.
Failure to check this may result in localised
condensation and mould growth to the top
of the internal walls.
Detail 23 - Detail at overhanging or extended verges
It would be considered best practice to

extend a flush finished roof verge, however
where this is not possible, a new trim
should be installed, mechanically fixed,
and sealed with silicone mastic. Trims
should have a minimum of 30-40mm drip
overhang from the face of the finished
system and any joints connected with
proprietary jointing clips. Joints should not
be in filled with silicone mastic.
Note: Insulated fascia and trim profiles are being

Roof Insulation developed and should be considered. It
should be is also imperative to ensure insulation is
provided evident within the existing roof zone to
avoid condensation and mould growth.
Detail 24 - Detail at flush verge

9. Detail Drawings
Where systems are taken over existing

flat or pitched roofs, the system should
be installed so that there is a minimum of
150mm above the existing finish. A 20mm
Detail 25 - Detail over existing flat roof high K-value insulation board installed
below the starter track. A new flashing
should be installed to provide 150mm up
stand and 150mm laps to the roof,
and adhered.
This detail will avoid the risk of a cold
bridge and potential condensation and
mould growth to the internal wall.
Detail 26 - Detail over existing pitched roof

9. Detail Drawings
Fixtures and Fittings
Any heavy weight items should be identified

by the contractor and an allowance for a
pattress or ground installed. The ground
should be fixed using a minimum of 4 fixings
to the substrate and its position marked.
The EWI system applied tight up to the ground
and a double layer of mesh applied over, with
the render system applied the face of the
ground as part of the main system finish. The
fixtures can then be fixed into the ground.
Size of the grounds is determined by the size
of the item to be fixed, however it would be
recommended that cover of 50mm be allowed
for from the edge of the fixing of the item to
be installed.
Grounds can vary in type, and the system
supplier should be consulted. Treated timber
or dense insulation can be used.
Detail 27 - Heavy items such as satellite dishes,

aerials, washing lines etc
Proprietary ‘Spiral Anchor’ fixings can be

installed which are designed for use with a
thin coat render system.
These should be installed as recommended
by the system designer and the fixing
manufacturer.
Detail 28 - Lightweight items such as rain water

pipes, lightweight signs etc

9. Detail Drawings
For post installation items, these can be

installed using proprietary cantilever fixings.
The recommended allowable loads should
be checked with the manufacturer prior to
use, and all holes that are made through the
system, should be sealed with silicone
mastic sealant.
Detail 29 - For post fix items such as

lights, satellite dishes, aerials etc
Extending ‘Live’ Airbricks The client / contractor should advise if existing

air bricks are ‘live’. If they are to be retained,
then they should be extended using a proprietary
UPVC airbrick extension profiles, such as those
indicated below.
All junctions should be fully sealed with silicone
mastic sealant and any voids in the insulation filled
with expanding foam.
The render finish should be taken tight to the sides
of the unit and sealed with a silicone mastic sealant.
Note: It is the responsibility of the client / main
contractor to identify which air bricks are in use and
which can be covered.
Detail 30 - Proprietary air brick extension

9. Detail Drawings
If the bespoke UPVC units are not installed, then air

bricks should be maintained by allowing a hole within
the insulation to the size of the existing air brick, and
the render system returned into the reveals of the
opening. Any returns should be sealed with a silicone
mastic sealant.
To ensure rainwater does not sit within the opening,
a UPVC or PPC aluminium vented cover plate should
be provided, and fixed to the system using the spiral
anchors and screws, and bedded on mastic.
Detail 31 - Rendered return

and cover plate
BT Connections
Extending BT brackets or covering BT wires

without first contacting BT Openreach should not
be undertaken.
BT Openreach have a process to ensure the safe
upgrade of brackets and wires which is undertaken
by approved BT Openreach engineers.
It is against the law to damage the BT Network, and
may have health and safety implications.
Contact should be made with the local BT Openreach
representative, prior to work commencing.
Detail 32 – BT connection
through insulation

9. Detail Drawings
Gas Pipes
50 50 Best practice would be to move the existing

gas pipe, however timescales do not always
allow this.
Although there are no current regulations that
cover the dimensions for dealing with existing
gas pipe inlets, the dimensions indicated have
been adopted as being acceptable.
150 It is critical that the trims used to create the
void are fully sealed with a silicone mastic
sealant so that no gaps are evident to allow
any gas which can leak from the pipe to
move behind the EWI system and build in the
voids created.
To avoid the ingress of water and for
aesthetics, a PPC aluminium vented cover
plate should be installed fixed to the EWI
system using the Spiral Anchors and screws.
75 75
GF
Detail 33 - Elevation on gas pipe cover
Note: It is the
responsibility of
the client / main
contractor to check
that the proposed
detail is acceptable
with the Gas supplier
Detail 34 - Plan on gas pipe

9. Detail Drawings
Gas Boxes Best practice would be to move the gas

box and re-fix on a timber ground to
the thickness of the new EWI system,
however timescales do not always
allow this.
No current regulations exist with regards
to the acceptable dimensions for existing
gas boxes, however there should be a
review on the type of gas box existing
on site.
Many gas boxes are required to be
removed, so that access to the regulator
Detail 35 - Plan on Note: A cold bridge valve can be provided. Access to the
existing gas box will occur regulator valve using a stub screw
driver or spanner can be achieved in
a dimension of 50-60mm. The valve
is generally lower than the box cover
therefore a dimension of 50mm should be
sufficient to access.
An assessment of the box and position of
the regulator valve should be undertaken,
and the dimension checked to ensure
access can be provided.
There may be occasion where the existing
gas box can be accessed and maintained
from the front access panel. Therefore the
Detail 36 - Plan of existing front access system can be taken tight to the box.
panel gas box
Proprietary box surrounds are available
and these should be used where possible.
Note: It is the responsibility of the client /
Note: main contractor to advise which detail is
A cold bridge acceptable for each specific project.
will occur
Detail 37 - Section through gas box

9. Detail Drawings
Extract Flues Existing hot extract flues should

be extended using a proprietary
extension pipe to the depth
of the new EWI system. The
extension pipe should be secure
100
and fully sealed against the
existing substrate.
If the insulation system used is
not classed a non-combustible,
a non-combustible insulation
100 should be provided around the
hot extract flue with a minimum
of 100mm cover to each side
of the flue and fixed with fire
resistant fixings.
Note: It is the responsibility of
the client / main contractor to
Detail 38 - Hot Extract Flue assess the existing extract ducts,
and extend the flues. Any works
to boilers should be carried
out by a Gas Safe or Corgi
registered engineer
Existing cold extract flues
should be extended using a
proprietary extension pipe to the
depth of the new EWI system.
The extension pipe should be
secure and fully sealed against
the existing substrate.
Where existing balanced
flue extract pipes cannot be
extended, there should be an
allowance to return the insulated
Detail 39 - Cold extract flue render system back into the wall
to create a recess, and provide a
sill to assist shedding of water.
A
Refer to HHIC Guidance
document on gas appliances.
A=300mm if fan flue (condensing

boiler) or 600mm if balanced flue
(non-condensing boiler)
Detail 40 – Un-extended flue

9. Detail Drawings
Movement Joint Details Movement joints in cement based render

system should be provided at every 6m-
8m centres.
Certain systems can be installed with
movement joints at greater centres or
not required at all, however these
systems should be discussed with the
system designer.
A render only movement bead should be
provided where there can be movement
in the board that the render is applied to.
Movement beads can be installed using
Detail 41 - Render only movement joint adhesive dabs or fir tree fixings.
Full system movement beads should be

provided where the insulation boards
used are rigid and do not allow sufficient
movement. Full system movement beads
should be installed by mechanically
securing the bead to the substrate.
It is sometimes a requirement to cut
through the insulation behind the
movement joint on certain
insulation types.
Detail 42 - Full system movement joint
Should the system abut a return wall

where a render only system is to be
applied, and there is the chance of
movement, a proprietary corner expansion
bead should be provided.
Detail 43 - Corner movement bead to render only system

9. Detail Drawings
If there is a concern over movement

where the EWI system meets at an
internal corner, a proprietary corner
expansion bead should be installed using
adhesive or fir tree fixings.
Detail 44 - Internal corner movement joint
Horizontal movement joints should be

installed and can be provided using a
render only drip bead and silicone
mastic seal.
For movement joint details the
system designer should be contacted
for their preferred detail and
recommended positions.
Detail 45 - Horizontal movement joint

9. Detail Drawings
Termination Details
Where systems are to be terminated

on a party wall line, there can be two
acceptable methods.
A full system stop bead can be used,
mechanically fixed to the existing
substrate and sealed with a silicone
mastic sealant.
This detail is used should the adjacent
Detail 46 - Full system stop bead property be clad in the future.
A full render return can be used with

the render taken back to the existing
substrate and sealed with a silicone
mastic sealant.
Detail 47 - Full render return
Where a system abuts a wall at 90

degrees which is not to be clad, then a
stop bead and silicone mastic sealant
should be used.
Detail 48 - Return at 90 degree un-clad wall

9. Detail Drawings
Corner Details
All corners require a corner bead, lapped

with the reinforcing mesh, secured with
adhesive or fir tree fixings.
UPVC corner beads can have an integral
polypropylene mesh that should over lap the
main mesh by a minimum of 100mm.
Detail 49 - Typical external corner
Where the system is fixed at an internal

corner, the system mesh should be
lapped around the corner by a minimum of
100mm to ensure continuity of the mesh.
Detail 50 - Typical external corner

9. Detail Drawings
Adhesive / Dubbing Render
Adhesively applied systems

and dubbing renders can be
applied in two ways, and is
subject to the advice of the
system designer.
Adhesive or dubbing render
is applied to the edges of the
boards and 3 ‘dabs’ applied
to the centre.
PLAN SECTION
ELEVATION
Adhesive or dubbing render is

applied to the entire board with
a notched trowel.
The preferred option should
be discussed with the
system supplier.
PLAN SECTION
ELEVATION
Detail 51 – Adhesive / dubbing render application

9. Detail Drawings
Boarding
Boards should be installed in
a coursed pattern and should
be staggered at the corners of
buildings in a ‘toothed’ manner.
Detail 52 - 3D image on external corner when boarding
Boards should be cut around

existing openings such that they
form an L shape. Minimum cuts
should be advised by the system
supplier, however it is generally
recommended at a minimum
of 200mm.
Detail 53 - Elevation on boarding pattern

9. Detail Drawings
Meshing
100
Meshes should over-lap by a

minimum of 100mm at all edges
100
and should overlap with integral
1000 meshes on the corner beads
and starter track clips. Check
with system supplier as laps can
reduce to 75mm if agreed.
Stress patches should be
installed to all corners at
openings and should be sized by
the system designer.
100
Note: Stress patches should be
fitted tight to corners as a rule.
Detail 54 - Typical meshing and stress patches elevation
Wall Abutment Details
Where existing garden wall

abut the main house wall, best
practice would be to take down
the wall locally and allow the
installation of the EWI system,
with the wall being re-built once
the render system has been
completed, however timescales
do not always allow for this.
Should there be an existing wall
built up to the main wall, there
should be the introduction of
full system stop beads to the
edges of the wall, and the joints
finished with a hydro-phobic
tape and mastic seal.
Detail 55 - 3d image of wall abutment

9. Detail Drawings
The system is stopped against full system

stop beads and the gaps in filled with a
hydrophobic tape and silicone sealant.
The detail indicates the provision for full
system stop beads, however should the
contractor wish the detail can be finished
with surface mounted stop beads or the
provision of a suitable mastic seal.
Detail 56 - Plan on wall abutment
If required, the render can be set 150mm

above the wall head, and the render
returned. This may assist in avoiding
splash back from the wall, however the
contractor should agree which option is to
be used.
Note:
A cold bridge
will occur
Detail 57 - Section through abutment wall

9. Detail Drawings
Verge / Junction Detail
Where a new verge trim and new

fascia trim meet, care should be
taken to ensure that the end of
the insulation and render system
is closed.
The new fascia trim should
over sail the corner of the new
system, and the verge trim
should also over sail the new
fascia trim.
A section of trim should be cut
and fixed to seal the end of the
system, and joint sealed with a
silicone mastic sealant.
Detail 58 - Junction between fascia trim and verge trim
Verge Trim Connection Details

All new verge of fascia trims
should be connected with
proprietary jointing clips.
These are supplied by the
manufacturers of the trims.
Joints should not be jointed
or overlapped and sealed with
silicone mastic sealant.
Detail 59 - 3D image on verge or fascia trim

connection profile

9. Detail Drawings
Where verge trims meet at the

apex, a proprietary apex closing
profile should be used.
The profiles are designed so
that they can be bent to suit the
pitch of the roof, and should
be bedded on a silicone
mastic sealant.
The apex profile should be
mechanically fixed to the
existing substrate.
Detail 60 - Detail on proprietary apex capping profile

9. Detail Drawings
Once discussions with electricity

supplier have been undertaken,
option to maintain cables on
wall, may be agreed, with cables
to be disconnected and then
new cables installed once works
are completed.
Install double timber pattress
to protect existing cables and
provide grounds for new cable.
Detail 61 – Power cable temporarily covered by system
If the agreed detail is to relocate

the cable during the works, the
system should be installed with
a trough carefully measured to
minimise patching effect. The
render system should be left
short of the insulation board.
The cable should be removed
/ un-clipped from the wall and
relocated to the outside of the
new system. The gap in the
system should be filled with
insulation, and the rendered
finish lapped with the existing
installed system, and the
finishes applied.
This detail can be
accommodated with dash and
brick effect render finishes,
however textured finish should
Step 1 Step 2 be carefully applied to avoid the
Detail 62 – Power cable relocated during works patch being obvious, however
any patch may be seen in the
final finish.

9. Detail Drawings
Where the cable is to be

maintained, an allowance for a
ventilated cover plate should
be made.
Allow for 25mm cover from
the cable.
Detail 63 – Cable maintained

10. Summary
This document has been produced as a reference tool to establish a baseline for best practice
when assessing and installing EWI systems for the refurbishment of existing housing stock.
The installation of EWI should be undertaken where the detailing carried out is both technically and
feasibly achievable, however this should not be used as an excuse for poor detailing both on paper
and on site.
The installation of EWI, if undertaken correctly, will enhance both the thermal and aesthetic
properties of an existing building, with the system lasting for the life time guaranteed by the
designer. Poor installation of systems, can have the opposite effect, and can in many cases lead
to issues such as mould growth through cold bridges, water ingress, and a poor appearance.
The guidance contained within this document, aims to assist site detailing, and provide a
commonality between systems, to reduce the variation in detailing observed on many building
sites where EWI system are being installed.

11. References
• British Board of Agrément (BBA), Installer Approval (online)

www.bbacerts.co.uk/installer-approval
• BS EN 13914-1:2005 Part 1: External Renderings
• BS EN 998-1-2010: Specification for Rendering and Plastering Mortars
• European Organisation for Technical Approvals (EOTA)
• INCA Technical Guide 03 – Wind Load Design Considerations for EWI Systems
http://www.inca-ltd.org.uk/documents/INCATechnicalGuide03-WindLoadDesign
ConsiderationsforEWISystems.pdf
• Local Authority Building Control Approval (LABC)
• National House Building Council (NHBC) Technical Standards, 2011. Chapter 1.2 -
A consistent approach to finishes
• Northern Ireland Technical Standards
• Scottish Building Standards
• The Building Regulations, England and Wales 2010-2013 Editions
• UK Government Planning Portal www.planningportal.gov.uk

INCA 6-8 Bonhill Street, London, EC2A 4BX
t: 0844 249 0040 f: 0844 249 0042
e: info@inca-ltd.org.uk w: www.inca-ltd.org.uk
www.inca-ltd.org.uk

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Best Practice Guide

External Wall Insulation

Alsecco Kingspan Insulation Rockwool

© INCA Ltd 2015 all rights reserved www.inca-ltd.org.uk

3 EWI System Types Overview 6

6 System Accreditations and Approvals 17

8 Evaluation of Completed Installations 26

© INCA Ltd 2015 all rights reserved www.inca-ltd.org.uk

© INCA Ltd 2015 all rights reserved 4 www.inca-ltd.org.uk

2.1 Planning Permission

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3 EWI System Type Overview

2 Adhesive - if applicable to system

3 Fixing through insulation - alternatively fixing through the mesh

© INCA Ltd 2015 all rights reserved 6 www.inca-ltd.org.uk

© INCA Ltd 2015 all rights reserved 7 www.inca-ltd.org.uk

© INCA Ltd 2015 all rights reserved 8 www.inca-ltd.org.uk

Thin coat polymer render with glass fibre mesh:

© INCA Ltd 2015 all rights reserved 9 www.inca-ltd.org.uk

Properties \ Binder Lime Cement Silicate Acrylic Silicone

Adhesion 3 3 33 333 333

Water Repellency 7 7 3 33 333

Vapour Permeability 333 333 333 3 33

Crack Resistance 7 7 3 333 33

Weather Protection 3 3 33 333 333

Durability 3 3 33 333 333

Algae Resistance 3 7 3 33 333

Cost £ £ £££ ££ ££££

© INCA Ltd 2015 all rights reserved 10 www.inca-ltd.org.uk

4.6 Beads, Trims and Flashings

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5.1 Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) - White and Grey (Enhanced)

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5.3 Polyisocyanurate (PIR)

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Handling and Storage

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Handling and Storage

5.7 Extruded Polystyrene (XPS)

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6.5 BBA / UKAS Accredited Approved Installer Scheme

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7.1 Pre-Works Inspections

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7.6 Working Sequences

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7.7 Bonding / Fixing Insulation

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7.12 Sealants and Junctions

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8.1 Inspecting Finished Systems

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8.2 Acceptable Tolerances

±8mm maximum vertical and horizontal deviation

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