Stone wool insulation versus exposure to the elements

The challenge

Standing at a lofty 23 stories, Beckley Point is renowned for being the tallest building in  Plymouth. The aim of this building was to provide state-of-the-art student residences for Plymouth’s large student population. Located at the very heart of the city centre, a mere stone’s throw from both the University of Plymouth and the Plymouth College of Art, Beckley Point student residence couldn’t be more convenient for those attending either  educational institution. All the colour and  conveniences of the city are within strolling  distance and the main train station is just a few hundred metres away.

Costing £30.79 million to construct, the 505- bed student residence was built to last and to secure a comfortable indoor environment for the students. The project used RAINSCREENDUO SLAB®, a stone wool insulation product specifically developed for use within ventilated cladding systems, as well as sealed systems such as curtain walling. Not only does the insulation product offer exceptional thermal properties to keep the students cosy and warm, RAINSCREEN DUO SLAB has proven acoustic benefits to keep out the noise of the city and create an atmosphere conducive to study. Importantly, the insulation is classified as Euroclass A1 noncombustible, vital for the safety of high-rise structures. Although RAINSCREEN DUO SLAB had been specified from the outset, the fire tragedy at Grenfell Tower in June 2017 led to a review of the planned outer cladding panels during the project at Beckley Point. While assessing how to proceed, the façade contractor went into liquidation, causing the construction to be delayed for almost a year.

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The solution

RAINSCREEN DUO SLAB had already been installed on most of the building’s façade and was left exposed for almost a year. The resilience and moisture resistant properties of the stone wool insulation meant that once it was dried, it could be covered with the selected cladding and perform just as it would have done without the delay and exposure. Students were even able to move in and occupy the building before the cladding was installed.

So although the construction project proved to be an incredibly difficult one, experiencing lengthy delays outside of anyone’s control, the stability, strength and moisture resistance of stone wool insulation withstood an unplanned test against the elements.

Love it….or hate it

Shortly after its opening, Beckley Point was shortlisted for the infamous Carbuncle Cup in 2018, an annual award for Britain’s most grotesque new building. Beckley Point did not emerge as winners of the award, to the relief of many locals who believe it is a welcome addition to downtown Plymouth. Eyesore for some, contemporary delight for others, one thing is certain – the stone wool insulation will continue to work effectively for the next 65 years or more.

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