Selected stone wool render systems now offer a 50-year assessed life expectancy above and beyond the 30-year industry standard, with no additional system costs.
ROCKWOOL Wall Systems has announced that four selected stone wool external wall insulation render systems now have a 50-year assessed life expectancy under new Kiwa certification.
Available for registered projects, the certification gives architects, specifiers, contractors and building owners additional evidence to support long-term façade decisions.
For projects requiring a system life expectancy beyond the 30-year benchmark, these selected systems offer a 50-year assessed life expectancy—an additional 20 years, or a 66.7% increase—with no additional system investment required as a result of the extended assessment.
The certification covers masonry and direct-fix steel frame systems incorporating stone wool insulation with HECK 4S Silicone Render or A1 Mineral Render finishes.
Further assessment supports long-term confidence
The milestone follows an in-depth assessment of hygrothermal and freeze-thaw testing, examining how the systems respond to cycles of heat and moisture, and repeated freezing and thawing.
The new Kiwa certification supports a 50-year life expectancy for the specified system configurations, subject to its scope and conditions.
For an industry making decisions that affect buildings for decades, this provides additional durability evidence to consider alongside thermal performance, fire classification and suitability for the project.
Joe Ragdale, Technical Director at ROCKWOOL Wall Systems, said:
“When specifying an external wall insulation system, confidence in its long-term performance matters. This new Kiwa certification supports a 50-year life expectancy for four of our stone wool render systems, giving project teams stronger evidence to support their decisions.
“There are no additional system costs or installation steps arising from the extended assessment. That is a significant benefit for customers considering durability and long-term value in their next project.”
Meeting longer-term specification requirements at no additional system cost.
For projects requiring a system life expectancy beyond the 30-year benchmark, our selected systems offer a 50-year assessed life expectancy under new Kiwa certification. This represents an additional 20 years—a 66.7% increase—with no additional system costs arising from the extended assessment.
The specified products and installation method remain unchanged, with no additional installation steps required.
For architects and specifiers, this provides additional evidence to support longer-term durability requirements when selecting a complete wall insulation system.
For contractors and installers, the 50-year assessed life expectancy is available on eligible projects, provided the requirements of the new certification are followed.
For housing associations, local authorities and building owners, it supports informed investment decisions, asset planning and consideration of whole-life value.
Supporting a longer-term approach to buildings
Durability also has a role in responsible resource use. Keeping suitable building systems in service for longer can help avoid or delay replacement materials and associated works. Any resulting cost or environmental benefits depend on the individual project, its maintenance and replacement assumptions.
Four eligible system configurations
The 50-year assessed life expectancy is available for using the following configurations covered by the new Kiwa certification:
- Masonry – Stone Wool – HECK 4S Silicone Render
- Masonry – Stone Wool – A1 Mineral Render
- Direct Fix Steel Frame – Stone Wool – HECK 4S Silicone Render
- Direct Fix Steel Frame – Stone Wool – A1 Mineral Render
The assessed life expectancy is subject to the scope and conditions of the relevant Kiwa certification, including requirements for design, installation, inspection and maintenance.
To discuss an eligible new project or request the relevant certification, contact ROCKWOOL Wall Systems at www.wall-systems.co.uk.
