External Wall Insulation & Rendering Project – London

Project Overview

Client: Private Homeowner (Confidential)
Location: North London
Sector: Residential
Service Type: External Wall Insulation (EWI) & Silicone Rendering
Duration: 6–8 weeks
Completion Date: October 2025

Project Objectives

  • Improve thermal performance and reduce energy loss through external walls
  • Apply a high-quality, long-lasting silicone render finish
  • Protect the property against moisture penetration and weather impact
  • Modernise the appearance of the exterior with clean and uniform surfaces
  • Ensure the installation meets PAS 2030/2035 retrofit standards

Scope of Works

1. Preparation & Demolition

  • Removal of old render, loose materials, and outdated pipe brackets
  • Surface cleaning and pre-inspection for substrate integrity
  • Installation of scaffolding to provide full access around the property

2. External Wall Insulation Installation

  • Application of EPS insulation boards across all exterior walls
  • Mechanical + adhesive fixing for maximum stability
  • Installation of corner beads, mesh reinforcement, and basecoat layer

3. Silicone Render System

  • High-performance breathable silicone render applied to all elevations
  • Fine-texture finish for a modern, clean aesthetic
  • UV-resistant, waterproof, and self-cleaning surface

4. Pipeworks & Services Integration

  • Repositioning and re-fixing of waste pipes, downpipes, and utilities
  • Sealing around protrusions to ensure weather-tight installation
  • New brackets added to support pipe alignment after rendering

5. Finishing & Detailing

  • Rendered reveals around all windows for a premium look
  • Reinforced base protection at ground level
  • Clean transitions at joins, corners, and service penetrations

Challenges & Solutions

Challenge 1 – Very Narrow Side Access

Scaffolding placement was difficult due to the tight gap between properties.

Solution:
Our team installed a specialised narrow-access scaffold structure with precise spacing, ensuring safe working conditions without disturbing neighbouring structures.

Challenge 2 – Complex Pipework Layout

Multiple waste pipes and old conduits interfered with insulation placement.

Solution:
We temporarily removed unnecessary pipe brackets and reconfigured pipe runs. All penetrations were fully sealed and reinforced to maintain insulation continuity.

Challenge 3 – Uneven Substrate

Existing exterior walls showed inconsistencies and minor structural deviations.

Solution:
We applied levelling compounds and mesh reinforcement to stabilise surfaces before applying insulation and basecoat. This guaranteed a smooth, uniform render finish.

Results

  • Full thermal upgrade of the building envelope, significantly reducing heat loss
  • Clean, modern exterior with a durable silicone finish
  • Enhanced weather resistance and moisture protection
  • Improved airtightness and energy efficiency
  • Property façade transformed into a bright, uniform, premium-looking exterior
  • Increased property value and long-term durability

Client Testimonial

“The exterior looks completely transformed. Bigness delivered high-quality work with excellent attention to detail. The insulation has already made the home feel warmer.”

Key Takeaways

  • Silicone render systems offer long-term durability, weather resistance, and a clean aesthetic
  • High-quality EWI significantly boosts energy efficiency and reduces heating costs
  • Proper detailing around pipes, windows, and corners is essential for a professional finish
  • Narrow-access projects require experienced teams with specialist scaffold solutions