Case Study: CorkSol Solves Damp & Mould Issue at 1960’s East London Tower Block

A Tower Hamlets-based social housing provider faced a persistent challenge with damp, mould, and condensation in a 26-storey tower block constructed in the 1960s. Poorly executed retro-fit projects, changing demographics, and inadequate ventilation exacerbated the problem, leading to numerous complaints from residents.

Maintenance manager Steve initiated a thorough investigation, focusing initially on improving ventilation. Despite installing new fans, cleaning ductwork, and adding trickle vents to windows, the damp issue persisted. To address the problem at its core, Steve sought a thermal wall treatment that wouldn’t compromise room size or create logistical challenges.

After ruling out traditional Internal Wall Insulation (IWI) solutions, Steve opted for CorkSol sprayed cork granules with a plaster overskim. This 8mm-thick solution promised powerful thermal insulation, eliminating concerns of cold bridging or air gaps. The material’s breathability allowed for the transpiration of residual dampness, offering a holistic remedy to the building’s issues.

Following the completion of the project, the positive impact was evident. The tenant, who previously complained about damp and mould regularly, experienced a significant improvement in living conditions. The flat remained clear of damp, condensation, and mould, with a warmer and more stable internal temperature. The success of the project not only addressed immediate concerns but also contributed to the broader goal of enhancing residents’ quality of life.

In an era heightened by concerns about respiratory health, the solution provided by CorkSol aligns with the NHS acknowledgment of the link between damp living conditions and respiratory issues. With confidence in a reliable solution, plans are underway to implement the same system in other flats, marking a triumphant victory for both the residents and the housing provider.

The team at CorkSol is a dynamic group of professionals committed to excellence in every aspect of their work. From innovative product development to seamless operations, each member plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of CorkSol. Discover more about the talented and passionate individuals who form the backbone of CorkSol, contributing their skills and expertise to drive the mission forward here.

Steve’s dual-pronged approach, combining ventilation improvements with an innovative wall treatment, yielded a three-fold benefit. Complaints vanished, the organization’s vision for improved living conditions materialized, and the potential for respiratory complications, especially in the context of COVID-19, was significantly reduced. The case of the Tower Hamlets social housing block stands as a testament to the transformative power of targeted and thoughtful interventions in the realm of social housing maintenance.

2050 Materials has partnered up with CorkSol in order to provide designers, architects and professionals in the construction sector materials that increase building efficiency by providing natural, high performing cork based sustainable coatings for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. SprayCork is an award winning, natural, sustainable, and innovative sprayed cork coating for new build and retrofit projects, providing many features and benefits which you can find on the 2050 Materials platform.