As doors open to the public this September after an 18 month closure, insulation specialist Actis celebrates the role its innovative multifoil insulation has played in the initial phase of a £19 million redevelopment of one of Britain’s finest theatres.
The Bristol Old Vic’s historic Georgian Theatre has just reopened its better insulated, updated and more comfortable auditorium after completing the first tranche of a five year overhaul of the Grade I listed 18th century building.
The work, which includes improving sightlines, creating additional performance spaces, making the building wheelchair accessible, renovating the offices and vastly improving the insulation brings the theatre roaring into the 21st century while retaining its Georgian charms.
The final stage of the redevelopment begins in 2014 and is due to finish in 2016 to coincide with the theatre’s 250th anniversary and will see the foyers, café and studios transformed.
Builders used Actis multifoil insulation in the roof – which at only 35mm thick offers a UKAS approved equivalent to 210 mm of traditional bulk insulation in roofs – with the bonus of more headroom, practically no chance of incorrect installation, less wastage, vapour control and no rot. It also reduces thermal bridging and improves the air tightness of the building envelope due to the installation techniques. It is also ideal for use in older buildings where thicker insulation would simply not be feasible.
Timelapse photography shows the insulation being installed at nigh on lightning speed.
Actis UK and Ireland director Matthew King said: “It’s pleasing to think that our modern technology which creates insulating material designed and manufactured in France can be used to transform a historic building which symbolises the essence of Englishness. When the theatre was in its infancy England was at war with France and now we are working harmoniously together for the advancement of art, culture, comfort and the environment. Is that what we call entente cordiale?”
TS10+ principally reduces heat loss by radiation, with conduction playing a minor role – unlike thick insulation which operates by conduction only.
In fact, as a general rule using TS10+, which has been certified by BM TRADA whose certification scheme has been accredited by UKAS, costs around two thirds of the price of traditional bulk insulation when one takes into account material, transportation costs, labour and wastage. And because the multifoil includes a vapour control layer, installers need use only one product rather than two – reducing time and installation costs.
Further information is available from www.insulation-ACTIS.com