This case study highlights the critical importance of adhering to professional installation standards for External Wall Insulation (EWI). The findings are based on a site survey of a failed EWI system, identifying multiple technical breaches and their subsequent impact on building integrity.
1. Project Overview
* System Type: EWI standard 90 mm EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) system.
* Context:The system was installed a few years years ago through government funding.
* Reason for Inspection: Complete system failure and reported property damage.
2. Core Technical Failures and Consequences
There were many failures with this EWI installation, however we will focus on the most severe ones.
A. Inadequate Waterproofing and Sealing
• The system failed to provide a continuous waterproof envelope, leading to severe water infiltration and subsequently damaged to both the internal and external walls of the property. The insulation boards were not appropriately fixed onto the building’s walls which led to air movement and moisture being trapped.
