1. High Energy Bills

Are you shocked by the amount you’re spending on heating and cooling your home? If your energy bills are consistently high, it could be a sign that your home is poorly insulated. Without adequate insulation, heat can easily escape during the winter and penetrate your home during the summer, forcing your heating and cooling systems to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. External wall insulation can significantly reduce heat loss and gain, leading to lower energy consumption and ultimately, lower utility bills.

2. Uneven Temperature Distribution

Do you find that certain rooms in your home are consistently warmer or colder than others? This could be due to uneven insulation levels throughout your home. Rooms with inadequate insulation may feel drafty and uncomfortable, while others may become excessively hot or cold depending on the season. External wall insulation helps to create a more consistent indoor temperature by reducing heat loss and preventing drafts, ensuring that every room in your home remains comfortable year-round.

3. Visible Signs of Dampness or Mould

Have you noticed damp patches or mould growth on your walls? These are clear indicators of moisture infiltration, which can be caused by poor insulation. Without proper insulation, cold spots can form on interior walls, causing condensation to accumulate and creating the perfect environment for mould growth. External wall insulation acts as a barrier against moisture, preventing dampness and mould from forming and protecting the structural integrity of your home.

4. Exterior Walls Feel Cold to the Touch

Take a moment to feel the exterior walls of your home. Do they feel cold to the touch, especially during the winter months? Cold exterior walls are a telltale sign of poor insulation, as they indicate that heat is escaping from inside your home. External wall insulation adds an extra layer of insulation to your exterior walls, preventing heat loss and keeping your home warmer and more comfortable.

5. Ageing or Deteriorating Render

Is the render on your exterior walls starting to crack, peel, or flake away? This not only detracts from the appearance of your home but also compromises its thermal performance. Cracks and gaps in the render allow heat to escape and moisture to penetrate, leading to further deterioration of the underlying structure. External wall insulation provides a durable and weather-resistant finish that protects your home from the elements and enhances its curb appeal.

If you’ve noticed any of these signs in your home, it’s time to consider investing in external wall insulation. Not only will it improve your comfort and energy efficiency, but it will also enhance the value and longevity of your home. Contact us today to learn more about our external wall insulation solutions and take the first step towards a more comfortable and energy-efficient home.

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Discovering Craftsmanship at Its Peak

Upon arrival, our team was greeted with the breathtaking landscapes that serve as the backdrop to CupaClad’s manufacturing facilities and quarry. Nestled amidst the rugged beauty of the Spanish countryside, these facilities epitomize precision and excellence.

Our journey commenced with an immersive tour of the manufacturing facilities. From cutting-edge machinery to the skilled hands of artisans, every step of the production process exuded meticulous craftsmanship. Witnessing the transformation of raw slate into the exquisite cladding panels that adorn architectural marvels worldwide was a testament to the dedication and expertise of the CupaClad team.

A Glimpse into the Quarry: Where Nature Meets Innovation

The highlight of our visit was undoubtedly the excursion to CupaClad’s quarry. Here, amidst the rugged terrain, we gained firsthand insight into the extraction of natural slate—an art perfected over centuries. Standing amidst towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, we marveled at the raw beauty of the slate formations, each a testament to the Earth’s ancient geological processes.

Beyond its natural splendor, the quarry also showcased CupaClad’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. From reforestation initiatives to meticulous land restoration efforts, every aspect of the quarry’s operation harmonized with nature—a philosophy that resonates deeply with Licata Building Systems’ own sustainability ethos.

Forging Stronger Partnerships: Bringing CupaClad Excellence to the UK

As we bid farewell to the picturesque landscapes of Spain, our journey left an indelible mark on our team. Not only did we gain invaluable insights into the manufacturing process and the geological wonders of the quarry, but we also forged stronger bonds with our partners at CupaClad.

Armed with newfound knowledge and inspiration, Licata Building Systems is poised to introduce CupaClad’s unparalleled quality and craftsmanship to the UK market. From iconic architectural landmarks to innovative residential projects, we are thrilled to offer our clients access to the finest natural slate rainscreen cladding, sourced directly from CupaClad’s Spanish heritage.

Looking Ahead: A Shared Vision of Excellence

As we reflect on our journey to CupaClad’s Spanish manufacturing facilities and quarry, one thing is abundantly clear: our pursuit of excellence knows no bounds. Through collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to quality, Licata Building Systems and CupaClad are poised to redefine the landscape of construction in the UK and beyond.

Join us on this extraordinary journey as we continue to push the boundaries of possibility, one slate at a time.

Stay tuned for more updates and insights from Licata Building Systems as we embark on our quest to deliver excellence in construction.

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Understanding EPS Insulation

EPS insulation, also known as beadboard or Styrofoam, is a lightweight, rigid foam board made from expanded polystyrene beads. These beads are expanded and fused together to form a closed-cell structure, creating a material with excellent thermal insulation properties. EPS insulation is renowned for its durability, moisture resistance, and versatility, making it a popular choice across various construction applications.

Enhancing Thermal Performance

One of the primary functions of EPS insulation in external wall applications is to improve thermal resistance, thereby reducing heat transfer through the building envelope. By installing EPS insulation on the exterior walls, you create a continuous layer of insulation that helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature while minimizing energy consumption for heating and cooling. This not only enhances occupant comfort but also contributes to significant energy savings and reduced environmental impact over the building’s lifespan.

Moisture Management

In addition to thermal benefits, EPS insulation plays a crucial role in moisture management. Its closed-cell structure resists water absorption, preventing moisture buildup within the wall assembly. By keeping moisture at bay, EPS insulation helps mitigate the risk of mold growth, rot, and structural damage, thus preserving the integrity and longevity of the building envelope.

Ease of Installation

EPS insulation is prized for its ease of installation, making it a favorite among contractors and builders. Its lightweight nature allows for effortless handling and maneuvering on the job site, reducing labor costs and construction time. Whether used in new construction or retrofit projects, EPS insulation can be easily cut, shaped, and installed to fit the specific requirements of any building design.

Cost-Effectiveness

From a financial standpoint, EPS insulation offers excellent value for money. Its relatively low material cost combined with long-term energy savings results in a favorable return on investment for building owners and developers. Furthermore, the durability and low maintenance requirements of EPS insulation translate to reduced lifecycle costs, making it an economically sound choice for sustainable building projects.

Environmental Sustainability

As society places increasing emphasis on environmental sustainability, EPS insulation shines as an eco-friendly option. It is manufactured using minimal resources, with high recyclability at the end of its lifespan. Additionally, the energy savings achieved through improved thermal performance contribute to overall reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.

Incorporating EPS insulation into your building’s external wall system offers a multitude of benefits, from enhanced thermal performance and moisture management to ease of installation and cost-effectiveness. By harnessing the power of EPS insulation, you can create buildings that are not only energy-efficient and comfortable but also sustainable for generations to come. As you embark on your next construction project, consider the value that EPS insulation brings to the table, and elevate your building’s performance to new heights.

Contact Us Today!

Contact us to learn more about our EPS Grey Insulation. Our sales team and technical team are always happy to provide information and support on any of our products and systems.

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This is extremely important, the relationship between buildings and moisture is an essential part of structural health and performance of a property.

A lack of breathability in the building materials can then lead to condensation (damp) and a lot more issues too! Current building technology now consider breathability, thermal performance and airtightness all as essential elements.

Some older properties were built with weak and porous mortars, plasters and renders, which can absorb moisture in the form of rain and air borne moisture (humidity) both inside and outside. The moisture that is absorbed by the building must be able to migrate out of the property – This is sometimes known as the walls “breathing”

This is why it is recommended that you choose the appropriate materials with the right level of breathability for the insulation works. There are many alternatives and we would be happy to discuss the various options to help you to reach the correct decision.

To summarise the advantages of breathable EWI systems

The correct insulant will :

• Reduce heat loss walls whilst still allowing moisture to escape.
• Help maintain an equilibrium within the fabric of the building protecting against unnecessary moisture build up.

Want to know more about EWI and Breathability?

Get in touch :

Email – info@licataltd.co.uk

Visit one of our branches – Find them here.

By Phone – Find our list of numbers here.

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Our planet is experiencing a climate emergency and we need to do everything we can to reduce our carbon output if we want to

protect our world we live in.

We are also in the middle of a very real cost of living crisis. Energy prices souring to all time heights with no sign of abating.

Insulating your home offers energy bill savings as well as providing amazing benefits for the environment too.

How Does This Reduce Your Carbon Footprint?

Reducing heat loss from your home, insulation reduces/removes your need to constantly rely on gas and electric powered central heating systems by turning down the thermostat and being so much more efficient thus reducing the amount of CO2 you produce and shrinking your carbon footprint. Something to be really proud of.

Energy Saving Trust Figures Have Shown :

• External Wall Insulation – can reduce carbon output by 1490kg per year ( along with £490 of savings )
• Cavity Wall Insulation – can reduce carbon output by 1500kg per year ( along with £250 of savings )
• Loft Insulation – can reduce carbon output by 125kg per year ( along with £250 of savings )

Insulating your property along with other measures such as heat pumps and double glazed windows, you can make your home far more comfortable,

green and sustainable.

Get in touch :

Email – info@licataltd.co.uk

Visit one of our branches – Find them here.

By Phone – Find our list of numbers here.

The post EWI & How It Reduces Your CO2 Footprint. appeared first on Licata Ltd.

External wall insulation, (EWI) is a multi-layered insulation and render system designed to be applied to the outside of a property providing both strong and robust protection against the elements, improving aesthetics whilst creating a warm cosy environment to live in. Here are some more details on how EWI works to protect a building from damp:

• Barrier against moisture: EWI provides a barrier between the external elements and the internal structure of the building. This barrier can help to keep rainwater out and reduce the risk of damp occurring. When EWI is installed, it is essential that a DPC is identified and is intact to prevent moisture from the ground rising which is known as rising damp. Therefore, it is imperative that a full survey of the property is carried out before any works are agreed

• Improved airtightness: External Wall Insulation (EWI) is designed to wrap a building in a protective thermal layer, which significantly improves its airtightness. By sealing gaps and cracks in the walls, EWI prevents drafts and uncontrolled air leakage, drastically reducing heat loss. This improved airtightness is a key factor in boosting a home’s energy efficiency, as the warm air generated inside is kept from escaping.

• Ventilation: While EWI’s airtightness is great for energy savings, it can also trap moisture and stale air inside. Activities like cooking, showering, and even breathing release water vapour, which, without an escape route, can build up and lead to condensation on cool surfaces, causing damp and mold. To counteract this, EWI installations must incorporate ventilation methods like passive air bricks, window trickle vents, or mechanical systems such as extractor fans and Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV) units to ensure a healthy indoor environment.

• Durability: EWI is made from high-quality materials that are resistant to the elements and can withstand the wear and tear of daily life. This means that it can provide long-lasting protection for your building and prevent damp from occurring over time.

In conclusion, EWI is an effective way to protect a building from damp. It provides a barrier against moisture, improves airtightness, and when combined with ventilation offers the complete solution for any condensation/damp issues. EWI is also a durable solution that can provide long-lasting protection for your building.

Should you require any further information regarding EWI, the suitability of your property or require contact details of a Licata approved contractor. Please do not hesitate to contact us.

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The 81 Local authorities who successfully bid for an allocation of BEIS most recent funding toward whole house retrofit and energy efficiency have been made.

The authorities span England form as far north as Newcastle to as far south as New Forest. Although the percentage splits of the allocations has not yet been published, Licata Managing Director Rudin Hoxha commented “distributing the 126 Million in a country-wide manner will contribute towards addressing fuel poverty on a national level. Too often the minor counties are not treated fairly in the distribution of funding with the larger combined authorities receiving the larger shares. Low-income and fuel poverty is a national problem and not exclusively in large urban areas”.

This is the second phase of LAD grants that have been awarded. The scheme was originally launched in August 2020. Offering in total £500 million, the scheme funds energy efficiency and low carbon heating projects for low income households across England. It supports delivery of the target to reduce fuel poverty in England, the UK’s pathway to net zero by 2050 as well as stimulating the economic recovery following COVID-19, supporting, and creating green jobs.

The Green Homes Local Authority Delivery scheme aims to upgrade around 50,000 homes, saving consumers money on their energy bills, while making it easier to keep their homes warm. Eligible measures include solid wall insulation such as Licata Therm Eco.

The Local Authority Delivery (LAD) Scheme is being delivered in 3 principle Phases:

• Phase 1A:  Grants of over £74 million for 55 projects which will upgrade the energy efficiency of around 10,000 low-income households in over 100 local authorities across all areas in England by June 2021
• Phase 1B: around £126 million of funding has been allocated to 81 local authorities for delivery of energy efficiency projects by September 2021, aiming to upgrade around 15,000 homes. This includes consortium bids submitted by a lead local authority that cover energy efficiency upgrades across multiple geographically related local authorities
• Phase 2: funding of £300 million has been allocated to the 5 Local Energy Hubs who will work with their regional local authorities to continue to deliver energy efficiency upgrades to up to 30,000 homes across England to those most in need, until December 2021

Local Energy Hubs are a collaboration of Local Enterprise Partnerships working together to increase the number, scale and quality of local energy projects being delivered across England.

Local Energy Hubs are based in 5 locations, South East, South West. Midlands, North East, North West.

If you are involved in LAD and would like advice on measures and in particular solid wall insulation please contact karen.oliff@licataltd.co.uk. Alternatively if you would like more general advice on the scheme feel free to step into one of the Licata Hubs.

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Weather Working

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Licata Building Systems are super pleased to announce the opening of the 3rd hub located in North London, Southgate.

Our most recent facility is conveniently situated just 5 miles from both the M1 and M25 or 20 minutes walk from Southgate underground station.

We welcome you to visit our new showroom which is open 6 days a week, Monday to Saturday. Our sales and technical team will be more than happy to help with providing you the highest quality and most suitable products for your project.

Unit 5, Brunswick industrial Park, London, N11 1JL

• The Southgate studio and trade hub will provide;
• Studio and showroom showcasing our finest systems and products
• Specification and technical support from our technical team
• Local stock-holding of all product lines
• North London distribution
• Colour matching and in-can tinting on site

All are most welcome to our best-in class facility. From installers to architects to the avid DIY’er, we have systems that appeal to everybody and every project.

Come and browse our vast range of façade finishes including silicone and acrylic render systems, brick slip systems and sustainable decorative venetian polished plaster and decorative paint finishes for interior and exterior uses. View our wide range of CasalGrande Italian porcelain tiles containing over 60 different collections to suit every individuals taste, Call in and our team will be very pleased to assist you.

Click here to take the virtual tour.

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On the exterior of your home, there is an entirely new system, rather than conventional rendering. What you have is an external insulation system called EWI. Licata Building Systems manufacture the products that make up this system. This energy-efficient system provides a continuous thermal blanket uninterrupted by the building’s block work. The Licata Building Systems EWI system blocks energy-wasting air leaks which is a major source of energy loss in conventional building methods.

The Licata Building Systems finishes are formulated using state-of-the-art polymer technology. They offer exceptional durability with minimal maintenance; the colour is built into the finish coat and therefore it does not require painting. The following information is to help you keep your Licata Building Systems EWI system house in good condition for many years of energy-efficient service.

General Maintenance:

 As with any building, maintenance is a necessity. As buildings age items on the interior and exterior may require repair or replacement. The following general maintenance tips will help you maintain your Licata Building Systems EWI system home.

Except for occasional cleaning to remove general soiling, your Licata Building Systems finish should need little attention. It does not require repainting as some render and wood products do.

Check Caulking – check for damaged or deteriorated caulked seals between the EWI system and other penetrations Licata Building Systems recommends checking this at least once a year. Seal beads around windows, doors and expansion joints should be checked to ensure that they are well adhered to. Cracked or split beads/sealants should be replaced immediately because they can be a potential source of water entry. You can make this a regular maintenance item that can be included with washing your windows.

Check to see that all light fixtures, outlets, water outlets, shutters, downpipes, and other attachments to the outside of your home are properly sealed. There should be no gaps around these items that would allow water to intrude into the wall cavity.

Gutters – check gutters and downpipes annually, so water flow is not obstructed as these can be a source of water entry to the structure. Defects in these items should be repaired promptly.

Electrical/Plumbing – external satellite dishes should be mounted on chimney stacks where possible. If mounted onto the EWI system, anchor fixings into the block work must be used and sealed properly. Cables to lights and alarm boxes must be placed in plastic conduits and sealed. Heating systems flue pipes must have a fire break installed around the pipe and sealed properly.

Use of a Ladder:

When placing a ladder against an EWI system wall ensure the ladder has rubber guard pads over the ends. Unprotected ladders could dent, puncture, scar or otherwise damage the Licata Building Systems EWI system surface.

Soils & Stains:

Remove soil as soon as possible from the Licata Building Systems finish. Simple soiling can be cleaned from Licata Building Systems finishes using water-compatible household cleaners. A soft, non-metallic bristle brush can also be used to remove soil from finishes. There are several commercial cleaning products available that are specifically formulated for EWI system finishes. Pressure washing is an ideal way to quickly clean your exterior wall and regain its original look. Pressure should not exceed 1,000 psi. The washer should be held at least 300mm / 12 inches from the finish to avoid possible damage and the operator should keep the tip of the washer moving.

Mould, Mildew and Algae:

Mould, mildew, and algae are microorganisms that can grow on virtually any surface if the conditions are right. If this growth appears on the surface of the EWI system finish, it can be cleaned and removed. Commercial cleaners designed to remove mould, mildew and algae are available. Alternatively, a solution of one part household liquid chlorine bleach to five parts clean water may be used. Apply this solution to the wall with a soft, non-metallic bristle brush, and then rinse the wall thoroughly with clean water to remove the bleach solution. If you are unsure of the results of either method, test a small area first.

Repairing Damages & Refinishing:

If your Licata Building Systems EWI system is damaged by dents, punctures, holes etc, repairs must be made with Licata Building Systems materials. Licata Building Systems can match the colour of your finish if you can provide a small sample or reference of the finish from the wall. Damage repairs must be made by an experienced Licata Building Systems applicator. You should call your original installer to do the repair or contact your local Licata Building Systems distributor who can refer you to a qualified applicator.

The existing finish should be clean and dry before painting. In small areas, paint can be applied with a brush. Avoid heavy brush applications around trim, windows etc because unsightly texture differences can result. Larger areas can be painted using a roller, applying vertical strokes that overlay by half the roller width. Depending on the texture and colour of the existing finish it may be necessary to apply two coats of paint.

Note:

If soiling appears to be ingrained in the finish and cannot be removed using one of the methods above, your walls may need to be recoated. NEVER use acid-based cleaners or solvents (mineral spirits, paint thinner, etc). These materials are not compatible with Licata Building Systems products or High-Density EPS Insulation. The use of these products may result in damage to the EWI system.

The existing finish should be clean and dry before painting. In small areas, paint can be applied with a brush. Avoid heavy brush applications around trim, windows etc because unsightly texture differences can result. Larger areas can be painted using a roller, applying vertical strokes that overlay by half the roller width. Depending on the texture and colour of the existing finish it may be necessary to apply two coats of paint.

After reading this article, you should now have the necessary information on how to properly maintain your Licata External Wall Insulation system for many years to come. If ever in doubt or if you have any questions regarding our products and systems, please do contact our team and we will be always more than happy to assist you.

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