Licatatherm K5 | Glass Fibre Mesh EWI

Our Licatatherm K5 EWI system benefits from being breathable, weather-resistant and fully fire compliant. With increased strength and crack resistance, due to the glass fibre mesh. It also helps protect against algae and mould. Choose from brick slips, coloured render or resin multi-colour for the decorative finish. With over 700 colours available, you can pick the perfect coloured render for your project. Our EWI systems help improve the appearance and thermal efficiency of properties, reducing overall energy consumption.

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Features

Suitable For Various Substrates
Over 700 Colour Options
Weather Resistant
Protects Against Algae & Mould
Energy Carbon Saving
Breathable
Fully Fire Compliant
Suitable For New Builds & Refurbishment

Suitable Substrates

Products Required

Cement Board

K5 INSULATION

GREY EPS INSULATION

MINERAL WOOOL INSULATION

EJOT H1 ECO

Mesh

ISOLANTE LG PRIMER

SILOXAN PRIMER

AGGRAPPATNE LG PRIMER

RASO TOP BIO

SILICONE RENDER

ACRYLIC RENDER

SILICATE RENDER

Acrylic Brick Slips

Once laid Acrylic brick slips are indistinguishable from traditional brickwork both a look at and feel. Below is just a small sample of the colours and textures available. We also offer a brick matching service.

Clay Brick Slips

A modern method of construction with a traditional aesthetic. A vast range of slips is available from our network network of suppliers.

Leading italian
manufacturer &
supplier

BBA certified
insulated render
systems

Licata 10 years
products warranty

National insulation
association

Enhancing Structural Durability with Fibreglass Mesh

Fibreglass mesh is a key component of our glass fibre mesh external wall insulation system, providing crucial wall reinforcement to prevent cracking. Embedded within the cement-based basecoat layer, it strengthens external walls, enabling them to withstand natural building movements. This reinforcement reduces the risk of structural damage, ensuring durability in both new builds and refurbishments.

The basecoat layer is applied slightly thicker in areas that need extra strength, working seamlessly with the fibreglass mesh to enhance the system’s integrity. Its alkali-resistant properties ensure long-lasting performance, even in challenging weather conditions. This reliable solution protects your external walls while maintaining structural integrity over time.

Key Installation Practices for Crack Prevention

Embedding fibreglass mesh into the basecoat adhesive is an essential step to prevent cracking in render systems. The mesh needs to be initially embedded into a wet cement-based basecoat layer, with vertical strips overlapped by at least 100mm for added reinforcement. This practice secures the glass fibre mesh external wall insulation system, ensuring it remains strong and flexible.

Once the first pass of the mesh is complete, a second layer of base coat render is applied to fully encapsulate it. This additional strengthening layer helps the system withstand impact and adjust to natural building movements. Proper installation ensures your insulated render system remains crack-free and highly durable.

Thermal and Fire Performance of Reinforced Systems

Our external wall insulation systems not only improve structural integrity but also enhance energy efficiency by reducing heat loss. By combining fibreglass mesh with expanded polystyrene or other insulation materials, these systems create a thermally efficient barrier. This helps homeowners save on energy costs while maintaining a comfortable interior environment.

Fibreglass mesh also plays a role in fire safety, particularly when paired with fire-resistant materials. It retains its structure under high temperatures, ensuring the external wall insulation system remains compliant with safety standards. This makes it a dependable choice for modern, energy-efficient buildings.

Flexibility and Strength in Dynamic Environments

Fibreglass mesh embedded in the basecoat layer adds both flexibility and strength to external wall insulation systems. This allows the system to adapt to natural building movements without cracking, maintaining its appearance and performance over time. Whether for new builds or refurbishments, this adaptability makes it a trusted solution.

With its age-resistant and impact-resistant properties, fibreglass mesh provides long-term reliability for insulated renders. From stress-prone areas to thin coat render systems, it ensures your external walls are protected, reinforced, and built to last.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is glass fibre mesh EWI used for?

Glass fibre mesh EWI is used to reinforce external wall insulation systems by strengthening the cement based basecoat layer. It helps prevent cracks caused by movement and temperature changes in the wall, making the system stronger and more reliable over time.

At Licata, our fibreglass mesh is an essential component of all EWI installations. It’s embedded between basecoat layers to provide additional strengthening, boost impact resistance, and protect the wall from damage in both new and older buildings.

2. Why does the mesh need to be alkali resistant?

Mesh used in external wall insulation EWI must be alkali resistant because it sits inside cement-based materials that are highly alkaline. Without this resistance, the mesh would weaken, leading to poor long-term performance.

Licata uses alkali resistant glass fibre mesh that maintains strength even when fully embedded in the basecoat adhesive. This keeps the insulation system stable, helping it withstand natural building movements without developing cracks or weak spots.

3. How does mesh improve impact resistance in EWI systems?

Mesh improves impact resistance by spreading force across the wall, reducing the chance of damage from accidental impacts. This is especially important in high-traffic areas or lower wall sections that take more wear and tear.

Our glass fibre mesh EWI systems are tested for strength and flexibility. When placed correctly over insulation boards and sealed with a second layer of basecoat, the mesh ensures your wall can withstand impact and last through different seasons without trouble.

4. Is extra mesh needed around openings and stressed areas?

Yes, adding extra reinforcement such as stress patches or double-layered mesh is common around windows, doors, and wall corners. These areas move more and need extra strength to avoid cracks or damage.

At Licata, we recommend strengthening these areas in all wall insulation EWI systems to ensure the entire surface remains durable and stable. This method improves the final render quality and extends the system’s life.

5. Can mesh be used with all types of insulation systems?

Yes, glass fibre mesh is suitable for use with many insulation materials, including EPS, mineral wool, and PIR boards. It’s a key part of all EWI systems, helping support solid wall insulation systems as well as lightweight builds.

Licata’s mesh works perfectly across our range of external wall insulation products, including options for render only systems and full insulation systems. Whether on new builds or refurbishments, our mesh boosts strength, safety, and system performance across the board.