Terraco EIFS combined with the Technopol Insulation System is the first South African system to have passed the International Standard, BS 8414-2 Facade Fire Test. 

Energy efficiency has become a key benchmark of successful building design, as maintaining comfortable interior temperatures can result in high electricity bills. Technopol SA is the official appointed distributor of Terraco exterior wall insulation finishing systems (EIFS) products in South Africa, providing the market with wall insulation solutions with a proven international track record. 

Thermal resistance 

Thermal insulation placed towards the outside of the building slows down heat loss to the outside, resulting in a much bigger than expected reactive R-value (insulation’s ability to resist heat flow). It outperforms cavity or internal insulation if there is significant variability in the ambient temperature. Referred to as a diurnal temperature swing, and summer to winter variation, most populated areas in South Africa fall in this category.  

External wall insulation system (EWIS) 

The Terraco EIFS comprises of an insulation layer, glass-fibre matting, undercoat render, primer and final decorative topcoat rendering, which envelopes the building, promoting a comfortable indoor climate while reducing the need for heating/cooling. This, in turn, lowers the energy consumption and harmful greenhouse emissions of the building. It is ideal for both new builds and renovation projects; and is available in a range of decorative finishes and colours. 

Alternatively, metal cladding (LiteClad™) can be applied over the exterior insulation layer with the appropriate vapour barrier. 

Additional advantages 

  • Noise reduction, moisture control and weatherproofing.  
  • Provides fire-protective cover over the insulation.  
  • Revives the outside appearance with a fresh, functional and modern look.  
  • Limits condensation on internal walls.  
  • Does not reduce the internal floor area.  

Issue: How the placement of thermal insulation within the building envelope interacts with thermally massive components such as concrete and bricks. 
Solution: Wall insulation results in a big thermal time constant, slowing down heat loss to the outside and resulting in a higher-than-expected R-value. 

Cost vs thermal performance 

While the cost of external insulation will be higher than that of internal and cavity wall insulation options, consideration should be given to the cost of maintaining thermal comfort over time and improvement of the property’s carbon footprint. If sustainability is at the heart of the renovation, then external wall insulation offers good value for money.  

Technopol SA is a leading manufacturer of expanded polystyrene (LiteCel™EPS) in South Africa. 

For more information, contact Technopol:
Tel: +27 11 363 2780/1/2
Email: info@technopol.co.za
Website: www.technopol.co.za or www.terraco.com/za

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