Insulation and Rendering Upgrade in Bighton, Hampshire
A Breathable and Flexible Exterior Wall Upgrade with Spray Cork
We were approached to transform a Bighton home that had been struggling with extensive cracking in its exterior render and poor thermal performance. The homeowners wanted a solution that would refresh the property’s appearance and provide lasting comfort and energy efficiency.
To achieve this, we implemented a comprehensive insulation and rendering system, starting with 50mm insulation boards, followed by a fibre-reinforced basecoat, and finishing with a premium CorkSol spray cork render in Arctic colour. The result was a durable, modern and sustainable exterior that strengthened the walls, improved thermal retention, and gave the property a clean, polished look.
1. Insulation and Rendering Upgrade. Project Overview.
This property renovation centred on improving the exterior walls through a combination of insulation work and a high-performance rendering finish.
Duration: 3 weeks
Completion year: 2022
Materials: 50mm external insulation boards, fibre-reinforced basecoat, and spray cork thermal render in Arctic White colour
Client goals: a more flexible, more thermally efficient exterior.
2. The Challenge
Widespread Cracking to Existing Render
The old render had cracked extensively, leaving the walls vulnerable to moisture and creating an uneven, tired appearance.
Lack of Thermal Comfort
Cold spots and heat loss were becoming increasingly noticeable inside the home. The client wanted a solution that improved comfort without invasive internal work.
The owners needed a solution for insulation and rendering that would breathe new life into the building while keeping the heat where it belongs: inside.
3. The Solution
To tackle the issues described above, we proposed a multi-layered system:
High-performance 50mm insulation boards to create a thermal envelope.
Fibre mesh reinforcement to ensure the new surface would never crack like the old one.
CorkSol Spray Cork render in the shade "Arctic" for a sustainable, flexible, and breathable finish.
Why did we opt for spray-cork rather than traditional render?
Spray cork is naturally breathable and flexible. Unlike traditional property render solutions, it doesn't crack when the building moves or the temperature shifts. It also provides an extra layer of acoustic and thermal insulation. Also, it works extremely well as a flexible, crack-resistant final coat.
3. Insulation and Rendering Upgrade in Bighton - The Process
As always, when embarking on a property renovation project, we followed a preparation and installation process to ensure the finish would last for decades. The process was as follows:
1. Wall Preparation
Proper preparation is essential for any insulation and rendering project. So, we started by removing all cracked render, then cleaned down the substrate and applied primer to improve adhesion.
2. Insulation Boards Installation
We fitted 50mm insulation boards to create a strong, level and energy-efficient base.
3. Basecoat & Mesh Reinforcement Application
We applied a reinforced basecoat with embedded fibre mesh to stabilise the surface and ensure a long-lasting result.
4. Spray Cork Rendering Installation
The final stage involved applying the spray cork finish, transforming the home’s exterior with a fresh Arctic colour and a flexible surface.
4. Insulation and Rendering Upgrade in Bighton, Hampshire. Summary.
In just three weeks, the Bighton property went from a high-maintenance, chilly house to a modern, energy-efficient home. By combining insulation and rendering, we addressed the root cause of the cracking while improving the home's "U-value" (its ability to retain heat). The Arctic finish gave the home a bright, clean look that perfectly suits the Hampshire countryside.
Upgrade Your Walls with Insulation and Rendering
If your home is struggling with cracked render, poor insulation, or tired-looking walls, a professional insulation and rendering solution can transform both its appearance and comfort. Get in touch with our team today to discuss how we can protect, enhance, and modernise your property with a durable, energy-efficient finish.