Assessing the quality of retrofits in solid wall dwellings

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a detailed appraisal of the quality of domestic retrofits.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents the results of technical surveys on 51 retrofits undertaken before, during and after the retrofits.

Findings

Failures are observed to be endemic and characterised into five themes: 72 per cent showed moisture issues pre-retrofit, 68 per cent had moisture risks post-retrofit, 62 per cent did not adopt a whole house approach, 16 per cent showed inadequate quality assurance protocols and 64 per cent showed evidence of insufficient design detailing. Each theme is further subcategorised with a view to identifying implications for future policy.

Research limitations/implications

The findings suggest the 10 per cent Ofgem retrofit failure rates predictions are an underestimate and so there may be a need for additional investigations to understand the trend across the UK.

Practical implications

Recommendations to reduce the failure rates may include making changes to the current inspection regime, widening understanding among installers; providing standard repeatable designs for repeated features; and empowering occupants to trigger inspections.

Social implications

The sample is representative of a substantial proportion of the homes in the UK suggesting that retrofit quality may in many instances be below the required standards.

Originality/value

Risks of moisture issues and underperformance in domestic retrofit are a concern for government industry and households. This research shows that many installation failures are the result of not implementing existing guidelines and a change to the enforcement of standards may be needed to enact a fundamental change in installer practice and process control.

Citation

Glew, D., Smith, M.B., Miles-Shenton, D. and Gorse, C. (2017), "Assessing the quality of retrofits in solid wall dwellings", International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation, Vol. 35 No. 5, pp. 501-518. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJBPA-05-2017-0022