Practical Applications & Case Studies

Module 7: Practical Applications & Case Studies

7.1 Hands-on Installation Exercises

Purpose: Develop real-world skills through structured practice in controlled environments.

Key Training Activities:

• Wall Insulation Workshop

• Practice installing cavity wall insulation using bead injection systems

• Fit internal wall insulation boards with proper vapor barriers

• Demonstrate external wall insulation (EWI) fixing techniques

• Loft Insulation Challenge

• Lay mineral wool to 270mm depth with proper ventilation gaps

• Install rigid board insulation between rafters

• Practice cutting and fitting around obstructions (tanks, wiring)

• Floor Insulation Task

• Fit PIR boards between suspended timber joists

• Demonstrate underfloor insulation for solid concrete floors

• Air Sealing Practical

• Apply membrane taping at wall/ceiling junctions

• Install airtightness grommets around service penetrations

Assessment Criteria:
✔ Correct material handling
✔ Precision in cutting/fitting
✔ Compliance with ventilation requirements

7.2 Common Mistakes & Troubleshooting

Identifying and rectifying frequent installation errors.

A) Thermal Bridging Issues:

• Problem: Uninsulated lintels causing cold spots

• Solution: Install insulated cavity closers

B) Moisture Problems:

• Problem: Condensation after internal wall insulation

• Diagnosis: Missing or incorrectly placed vapor barrier

• Fix: Retrofit intelligent membranes (variable permeability)

C) Air Leakage Failures:

• Problem: Failed airtightness test (≥7m³/h.m²)

• Troubleshooting Steps:

1. Smoke test to locate leaks

2. Additional sealing at window reveals

3. Membrane repairs at ceiling/wall junctions

D) Material Performance Issues:

• Case: Sagging loft insulation after 6 months

• Root Cause: Compression during installation

• Prevention: Use netting to support materials

7.3 Real-World Case Studies

1. Residential Retrofit (1930s Semi-Detached)

• Challenge: Upgrade EPC from E to B

• Solutions Implemented:

• External wall insulation (90mm PIR)

• Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR)

• Air tightness improved to 3.5m³/h.m²

• Results:

• 62% reduction in heating costs

• Eliminated condensation issues

2. Commercial Office Retrofit (2000s Building)

• Challenge: Meet ESOS Phase 3 requirements

• Key Interventions:

• Flat roof insulation upgrade (120mm phenolic foam)

• Thermal break installation at curtain walling connections

• LED lighting + insulation package

• Outcomes:

• 38% energy use reduction

• Achieved BREEAM Excellent rating

3. Social Housing Tower Block

• Problem: High fuel poverty rates

• Retrofit Approach:

• Internal wall insulation (50mm insulated plasterboard)

• Communal heating system upgrade

• Window reveals insulated with aerogel

• Impact:

• Reduced tenant energy bills by £420/year

• Eliminated mold complaints

Learning Outcomes

By completing this module, participants will:
✔ Demonstrate competent installation techniques
✔ Diagnose and resolve common insulation faults
✔ Apply best practices from real retrofit examples

Suggested Enhancement:

• Virtual Reality (VR) simulations for complex detailing

• Site visits to live retrofit projects