text: An external wall insulation (EWI) system manufactured by Sto has optimised fire protection for a multi-block residential development.
  Located alongside the River Thames at London's Isle of Dogs, Oceans Wharf comprises four blocks of flats ranging from seven to 12 storeys. To comply with amendments to Building Regulations, which ban combustible materials in external walls of buildings over 11m, the existing expanded polystyrene insulation (EPS) system installed by another manufacturer had to be removed and replaced.
  The project’s first phase comprised two buildings which had the StoTherm Mineral K EWI system specified to meet the required fire rating while maximising thermal performance. BBA-certified, StoTherm Mineral K features A1 mineral fibre insulation boards and the system is classified with an A2-s1, d0 reaction to fire in accordance with BS EN 13501.
  Specialist surface finisher One & Maike was responsible for installing StoTherm Mineral K on behalf of principal contractor Osprey, a façade remediation specialist. The insulation boards were fixed directly to the existing concrete substrate avoiding the need for a cavity. StoLevell Duo Plus, a strong mineral adhesive, was applied to the back of the insulation boards, and additional fixings were also used to secure the insulation boards to the substrate to suit wind load conditions. Sto-Glass Fibre Mesh was then embedded into the outer surface of the reinforcing coat providing crack resistance to the system.
  The system was finished with StoSilco K1.5, a silicone resin render ensuring high levels of water repellence and protection from harsh weather conditions. This was applied across an area totalling 2,500m2, creating elevations featuring various colours, including white, terracotta and blue.