The BBC recently reported that nearly two thirds of UK homes fail to meet long-term energy efficiency targets, with more than 12 million homes falling below the C grade on Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs).

Due to the amount of older housing stock in the UK, built before 1990, experts say retrofit measures are needed to address the situation if we are to meet the 2050 net zero carbon target, which was made law in June 2019.

There are many UK companies that can help with retrofit solutions, providing a number of different cladding options. However, much of the UK’s older housing stock is traditionally brick built and while rendered options can be a solution, it is not always desirable. A brick finish is synonymous with British housing, and is often the preference of many if not a requirement for local planning.

Eurobrick has been leading the retrofit brick slip cladding market for 30 years. They offer two external wall insulation systems – X-Clad and V-Clad. The backer panels used for both these systems are excellent insulators and have proven to save energy and reduce heating bills. Both panels have a BRE Green Guide Rating of A and can be supplied in a range of thicknesses up to 100mm to help meet the energy saving targets of a project. X-Clad has been independently certified by the British Board of Agrément (BBA) and is LABC (Local Authority Building Control) registered.

These systems can include a brick or stone finish and can be retrofitted directly to an existing masonry wall. Eurobrick provide a wide range of finishes, as well as mortar and tools to help with application and are able to offer advice on choosing or sourcing the right brick slips for your project.

This 1930’s house in Wilford, Nottingham, is a good example of much of the housing stock in the UK. With solid brick walls it was poorly insulated and, as you can see from the thermal images, it was losing a significant amount of heat through the walls.

After installation of Eurobrick’s X-Clad system, using a majority of 75mm thickness insulation panels, you can see a definite improvement in the heat loss. The owners of the house reported that they benefitted from reducing their energy bills by one third following the installation, as well as reducing condensation significantly and providing an overall improved living environment.

The homeowners chose Rustic Red Charcoal multi with a detail band of Smooth Anthracite, from Eurobrick’s Britannia Range and the brickwork was pointed using a mid grey mortar. They were thrilled with the energy saving results, the fact that they were able to live in the house as normal while the work was carried out, and that following a property valuation, the rejuvenated exterior had added kerb appeal and value to the property too.

Brick slip cladding provides an excellent solution to help UK homes meet energy efficiency targets as well as providing a facelift for some of the country’s ageing housing stock.