Introduction

This project involved a whole house retrofit at Brackenthwaite Farm, a traditionally constructed rural farmhouse delivered as part of the Cosy Homes in Lancashire programme. Bambers Building Contractors were responsible not only for the delivery of the works, but also for the design and specification of the retrofit measures, ensuring the solution was technically appropriate for a solid wall, heritage style property. From a resident and community perspective, the project was vital in creating a warmer, healthier home while reducing long term energy costs in an exposed rural location.

Duration

Start date: 11 December 2023
Completion date: 04 January 2024

Project Overview / Scope of Works

Bambers Building Contractors were responsible for the design, specification and installation of a comprehensive energy efficiency retrofit scheme at Brackenthwaite Farm. Given the traditional construction and solid wall nature of the building, a tailored approach was required to ensure thermal improvements were achieved without compromising the building fabric.

The works included the replacement of existing single glazed timber windows and doors with energy efficient double glazed UPVC units, alongside the design and installation of a vapour open internal wall insulation system to all external walls. A SWIP vapour open IWI system was specified to ensure moisture movement was managed correctly and the performance of the traditional structure was protected.

Ventilation upgrades were carefully designed and integrated into the overall retrofit strategy, ensuring compliance with current standards while supporting improved indoor air quality and occupant wellbeing. All works were delivered while the property remained occupied and operational as a working farmhouse, adding further complexity to the programme.

Key outcomes included improved thermal performance, enhanced comfort, reduced heat loss, modernised openings and a future proofed retrofit solution suitable for a traditional rural property.

Key Improvements Included

• Design and specification of a vapour open internal wall insulation system suitable for traditional solid wall construction

• Installation of internal wall insulation to all external walls using a moisture compatible system

• Replacement of single glazed windows and doors with energy efficient double glazed UPVC units

• Ventilation upgrades including extractor fans, trickle vents and airflow improvements

• Electrical and mechanical adaptations to accommodate insulation depth and complex wall build ups

• Careful detailing around chimney breasts, alcoves, stone walls and existing architectural features

Challenges

The project presented a number of challenges relevant to retrofit delivery in traditional buildings. The farmhouse is located in a rural and exposed setting, subject to stormy and unsettled weather conditions which impacted external works.

The building itself is traditionally constructed with thick solid walls, lime mortar joints and variable substrates, requiring careful consideration during the design stage to avoid moisture related risks. Additional challenges included delivering the works while the home remained occupied and operational as a working business, requiring phased delivery and resident focused planning.

Solutions

Challenges were addressed through early design consideration, appropriate system selection and close collaboration between the design and delivery teams. By specifying a vapour open internal wall insulation system, Bambers ensured the retrofit solution was sympathetic to the traditional construction while delivering meaningful thermal improvements.

Works were carefully phased in consultation with the occupants, splitting activity between upstairs and downstairs areas to minimise disruption. External works were programmed around weather forecasts, while on site technical adjustments were made to fixings, coring methods and ventilation routes to suit wall thickness and construction conditions.

Strong communication and flexibility ensured both performance objectives and resident needs were met throughout the project.

Value Added

For residents and the community

The project delivered a warmer, healthier home with improved comfort, better air quality and reduced energy bills. Clear communication and phased working helped minimise disruption, supporting wellbeing and daily life throughout the retrofit process.

For the client

The scheme provides long term asset performance improvements, supports compliance with retrofit and ventilation standards and contributes to wider decarbonisation goals across Lancashire. The tailored design approach reduces future maintenance risk and protects traditional building fabric.

As a company

This project demonstrates Bambers Building Contractors’ expertise in both designing and delivering complex retrofit solutions for traditionally constructed, occupied properties. It highlights our technical capability, resident centred approach and ability to manage risk while supporting local employment through in house delivery.

Public Impact

The completed works have resulted in visibly improved comfort, modernised windows and doors and a healthier internal environment. Resident feedback highlighted professionalism, cleanliness and care throughout the project, reinforcing the importance of trust and communication in occupied retrofit delivery. The project also strengthened Bambers’ experience in delivering design led retrofit solutions for traditional housing stock.

Total Cost

£43,600