Turning the world of insulation
inside out with ThermoShell External Wall Insulation

EWI - It’s what’s on the outside that counts
Buildings account for 40% of our energy consumption, in
houses up to 45% of this energy is lost through the solid walls of
the dwelling. Insulating solid walled homes has traditionally
been considered expensive and ‘hard to treat’, but now
there’s a perfect solution – ThermoShell® External
Wall Insulation.
External Wall Insulation acts as a shell, protecting your
property from the elements and helping to retain the warmth on the
inside, while in warmer climates it can also help to maintain a
cooler internal environment. In addition to all this, it
saves energy, reduces fuel bills and helps towards the
reduction in carbon emissions, associated with the dwelling.
ThermoShell EWI is part of the changing face of building methods
within the UK, with the ability to not only deliver a thermally
efficient, carbon saving façade, but also to visually improve
buildings and at the same time extend the life and value of the
building itself. Specifically suited to the existing solid wall
market, the highly breathable rock mineral wool ThermoShell System
provides a healthier indoor climate and reduced problems
associated with damp and condensation. With its state of the art
manufacturing technology, large range of finishes, suitability for
most substrates and the knowledge that the system is manufactured
by a world leading company in energy reduction, ThermoShell
EWI is turning insulation inside out.
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ThermoShell EWI Products
Case Studies
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Solid reasons to choose ThermoShell EWI
ThermoShell from Knauf Insulation is a robust and
versatile solution to an increasing demand for thermal
protection, particularly in solid wall properties.
The availability of both high-density rock mineral wool slabs
and expanded polystyrene (EPS) ensures that ThermoShell can be used
in a wide range of applications. High quality silicone and mineral
topcoat renders - designed to resist UV degradation and cracking -
provide a superior finish to a superior system. New high
performance self maintaining paints, which can be used in
conjunction with the system not only extends the life of a
building, but also allows it to be brought to life with colour.
| Benefits of EWI
Systems |
- Externally insulated, so no disruption to occupants
- Meets current as well as anticipated future thermal
regulations
- Breatheable rock systems allow for the removal of water
vapour
- Durable and designed for the lifetime of the building
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- Prolongs building life
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Low maintenance
- Extensive range of finishes and colours
- Reduces CO2 emissions
- Reduces fuel consumption and energy bills
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Thermal performance
- 110mm of ThermoShell Rock mineral wool system onto a solid
225mm brick wall will achieve a U-value of approx 0.29
W/m2K
- 120mm of ThermoShell Rock mineral wool system onto a solid
225mm brick wall will achieve a U-value of approx 0.27
W/m2K
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Features |
- Vapour permeable
The nature of
mineral renders and rock mineral wool insulation provides excellent
breathability, allowing moisture to permeate through the
system
- Water repellent
High performing
topcoats and renders prevent water ingress into the
system
- A1 fire rating
ThermoShell Rock
Slab is non-combustible and classified as A1 to BS EN ISO
13501-1
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Excellent weathering protection
Through
years of technological advancement, the ThermoShell system is
designed to cope with a variety of climates. Ultra Violet (UV)
resistant coatings ensure excellent weathering protection and
a durable finish to the topcoat
- Better acoustic performance
The
ThermoShell Rock system can improve the acoustic performance
of the wall, reducing the ingress of external noise
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ThermoShell Rock Mineral Wool System
The ThermoShell (TS) Rock mineral wool system incorporates a
high strength, rock mineral wool slab with a specifically designed
water repellent additive.
Rock mineral wool has a very high compressive
strength, twice that of some other External Wall
Insulation slabs, making ThermoShell Rock a
robust and durable system with high impact strength, which is
less prone to damage.
The highly breathable nature of rock mineral wool is
perfect for existing solid wall properties, allowing for a
cleaner, healthier internal living environment.
Diagram

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Features |
- Cost effective
ThermoShell EPS is a
more cost effective solution when compared to other foam
products
- Water repellent
High
performance topcoats and renders prevent water ingress into
the system
- Lightweight
Lightweight and easy to
handle and install
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Excellent weathering protection
Through
years of technological advancement, the ThermoShell system is
designed to cope with a variety of climates. UV resistant
coatings ensure excellent weathering protection and a durable
finish to the topcoat
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Ease of use for detailing
Easy
to cut and fit around architectural details such as dentil
courses and corbelling especially when using a hot wire
cutter
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Thermal performance
ThermoShell
EPS provides high levels of thermal resistance
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ThermoShell EPS System
ThermoShell (TS) Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is an effective
solution for thermal upgrading and it’s lightweight nature makes it
perfect for easy handling and speedy application.
In addition, due to substrate loading, the EPS board is suitable
for Secondary Thermal Upgrading (STU). STU refers to existing
properties that already have some form of EWI system in place and
require extra thermal upgrading.
The outstanding efficiency of EPS allow for reduced
thicknesses, whilst still maintaining the thermal performance
levels required.
ThermoShell EPS has a thermal conductivity of 0.032
W/mK.
Diagram

Renders - Put a good face on it
First impressions last, that’s why the quality of the render is
of the utmost importance.
The ThermoShell range of renders are both decorative and robust,
providing the perfect finish to any building.
| Mineral Render
benefits |
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Silicone Render
benefits |
- Robust
Mineral and marble
aggregates provide a long-lasting durable finish
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Open to diffusion
Excellent
vapour diffusion qualities when compared to other types of
finishes
- Various textures
Mineral
renders allow for freedom of design when structuring the
product, from fine detailing to traditional rustic
appearances
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Good for winter working
Fast
setting times mean that the finish does not ‘hang’ too long
in winter conditions
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Compatible with TS-Self Clean Paint
By using TS-Self Clean paint, you can provide the
mineral finish with a durable, low maintenance coating
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Part of a fully mineral system
Use with ThermoShell Rock mineral slab to provide a
complete mineral based system
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- Vapour permeable
Offers
negligible resistance to the passage of water vapour
- Ready mix
Pre-mixed in the tub
so it’s ready to use
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Wide range of colours
Silicone
render can be produced in an extensive range of colours
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Compatible with TS-Self Clean paint
For extra protection in highly exposed areas, use
TS-Self Clean paint
- Flexible
Silicone render is
flexible and accommodates minor movements
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Available in grain sizes: 1.5mm, 2mm, 3mm and 5mm |
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Available in grain sizes: 1.5mm, 2mm and 2.5mm |
*Both renders are suitable for use as a render only
system with TS-Onecoat
Make a colourful statement
An extensive range of colours
Add an element of style and individuality to any
building with Knauf Insulation’s range of colours that can be
applied to ThermoShell EWI systems.
Available in over 200 colours with an exclusive
range of the 12 most modern colours, the range
rejuvenates tired looking buildings, enhancing the look and
the value of the property and giving you the freedom to turn
your project into a work of art.
TS-Equaliser and TS-Self Clean
The Knauf Insulation range of high performance paints utilises
new technology in providing long life over-coatings and self
cleaning finishes.
TS-Self Clean is specially developed to allow rainwater to pick
up and transport dirt away from the surface of the facade, keeping
it cleaner looking for longer.
More about ThermoShell EWI
Colours
Technical Information
The right support is critical to establishing a good project.
From first point of contact to the completion of the
job, Knauf Insulation will be by your side every step of the
way.
Technical support includes:
- NBS specifications
- Detail drawings
- U-value calculations
- Site inspections
- Project supervision
- Product sample service
Rigorous testing in some of the most
sophisticated laboratories in Europe ensures that the ThermoShell
System will last the lifetime of the building it is applied
to. Knauf Insulation as part of the Knauf Group of companies
has the capability of manufacturing all the key
components for the External Wall Insulation system, placing
us in the enviable position of having complete control over
manufacturing quality and standards.
U-value table for ThermoShell External Wall Insulation System
(W/m2K)
| Insulation Thickness
(mm) |
225mm solid
brick wall1 |
215mm solid
block wall2 |
250mm
brick/block cavity wall unfilled3 |
250mm
brick/block cavity wall filled4 |
| |
Rock* |
EPS** |
Rock* |
EPS** |
Rock* |
EPS** |
Rock* |
EPS** |
| 50 |
0.54 |
0.48 |
0.52 |
0.46 |
0.51 |
0.46 |
0.33 |
0.31 |
| 60 |
0.48 |
0.42 |
0.45 |
0.40 |
0.45 |
0.40 |
0.30 |
0.28 |
| 70 |
0.42 |
0.37 |
0.41 |
0.36 |
0.40 |
0.35 |
0.28 |
0.26 |
| 80 |
0.38 |
0.33 |
0.37 |
0.32 |
0.37 |
0.32 |
0.26 |
0.24 |
| 90 |
0.35 |
0.30 |
0.33 |
0.29 |
0.33 |
0.29 |
0.25 |
0.22 |
| 100 |
0.32 |
0.27 |
0.31 |
0.27 |
0.31 |
0.27 |
0.23 |
0.21 |
| 110 |
0.29 |
0.26 |
0.28 |
0.25 |
0.28 |
0.25 |
0.22 |
0.19 |
| 120 |
0.27 |
0.24 |
0.26 |
0.24 |
0.26 |
0.24 |
0.21 |
0.18 |
| 130 |
0.26 |
0.23 |
0.25 |
0.22 |
0.25 |
0.22 |
0.20 |
0.17 |
| 140 |
0.25 |
0.21 |
0.24 |
0.21 |
0.24 |
0.21 |
0.19 |
0.17 |
| 160 |
0.22 |
0.19 |
0.21 |
0.19 |
0.21 |
0.19 |
0.17 |
0.15 |
| 180 |
0.20 |
0.17 |
0.19 |
0.17 |
0.19 |
0.17 |
0.16 |
0.14 |
* ThermoShell Rock has a thermal conductivity of 0.038
W/mK
** ThermoShell EPS has a thermal conductivity of 0.032
W/mK
1 Lambda value of brickwork - 0.770
W/mK
2 Lambda value of block - 0.45
W/mK
3 Lambda value of block - 1.130
W/mK
4 Lambda value of block 1.130 W/mK - cavity insulation -
0.040W/mK
The above figures are indicative and should only be used
as a guideline. Knauf insulation would always recommend that a
U-value calculation and condensation risk analysis is performed for
each project
ThermoShell Recommended Installer Scheme
A quality system requires a quality installer
The ThermoShell Recommended Installer Scheme is designed
to train, monitor and update installers regarding the best way of
using the materials. The scheme is designed to address the needs of
each installer - from more intensive close quarter training for new
installers, to technical update seminars for well-established
professionals. Our system will be judged upon the quality of
installation; therefore it makes sense to make sure our installers
are the best.
Community Energy Saving Programme (CESP)
Knauf Insulation is proud to support the Community Energy Saving
Programme (CESP), which aims to improve energy efficiency standards
and reduce fuel bills in areas of low income. CESP promotes a
‘whole home’ approach and implements energy saving measures best
suited to the individual needs of a property.
The ThermoShell System can play a major role in this scheme, as
it helps to provide exceptional energy savings in solid wall
properties, which are usually considered ‘hard to treat’. With help
from ThermoShell,
the scheme hopes to save nearly 2.9m
tonnes of CO2
and cut an average of £300 from the fuel bills
of around 90,000 homes.*
*Figures courtesy of Energy Saving Trust
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