A Sto external wall insulation system was specified to create a thermally-efficient school building with a façade reflecting its branding.
Designed by Solihull Council’s in-house architects, Building Design Studio, the new block sits at the heart of Alderbrook School and now allows the school to increase their pupil places. Immediately visible to those entering the site, the building has been designed as a simple cube with an inset box in the school’s signature purple colour. To achieve this aesthetic and ensure the block is fit for purpose, the StoTherm Mineral K external wall insulation system was chosen together with StoSilco render and StoColor Dryonic X-Black façade paint.
BBA certified, StoTherm Mineral K has an A2-s1, d0 reaction to fire classification in accordance with BS EN 13501-1. Installed by Sto’s applicator, K & E Peck, with the main contractor for the project being G F Tomlinson Building Limited, the system’s mineral fibre insulation boards were adhesively and mechanically fixed to the concrete block substrate. A reinforcement coat and mesh were then applied followed by the installation of the silicone resin render in white as well as the school’s signature purple.
The StoColor Dryonic X-Black paint, which repels water and protects façades from algae growth, was used to overpaint the purple render. The paint has solar reflecting properties so infrared and UV rays are reflected, reducing solar heat gain and ensuring the colour doesn’t fade, and remains vibrant for years to come.
“We specified the Sto external wall insulation system as we wanted a very robust, fire-resistant system that would achieve a uniform look and minimise maintenance,” said Parminder Degan, Architect at Solihull Council. “Sto’s extensive colour range also meant we could create a render that exactly matched the school’s purple branding.
“Selecting an external wall insulation system delivered benefits during construction too. The contractors were able to build the structure and internal walls first, and then install the insulation and render at a later date. This sequencing was vital to overcome various challenges, including building in a live school environment with very limited space and delivery windows.”
Throughout the installation, Sto’s technical team worked with Solihull Council and G F Tomlinson Building Limited to meet the design brief, ensuring the movement joints in the render were positioned correctly.
Continued Parminder: “As this is such a visible property in a prominent position, it was vital we got the finish right. Sto’s technical representative came out to see us to talk through our drawings in detail. They then came back with the answers we needed, ensuring the render has a seamless appearance. This support and understanding were key to the project’s success. The result is a very robust building with excellent thermal properties that looks exactly like our drawings.”
Largely funded and managed by Solihull Council, the block is home to seven classrooms and a main reception. Named after Annette Scott, the Chair of Trustees at Alderbrook, the building has enabled the school to offer 30 extra spaces in each year group.