Carbon Neutral Warmcell Recycled Newspaper Sustainable Materials

We were appointed to deliver a building with outstanding carbon performance, prioritizing sustainability and energy efficiency throughout the design and construction phases. In line with our commitment to reducing environmental impact, we avoided the use of rigid foam insulation where possible and instead utilized alternative, eco-friendly materials.

The walls were constructed using deep timber frames filled with Warmcell cellulose fibre, a product made from recycled newspaper. This material was blown into closed timber frame panels, providing excellent thermal insulation while promoting a circular economy. The cellulose fibre also contributes to the building’s overall carbon reduction, aligning with our goal of minimizing the carbon footprint of the project.

Key features of the project included:

• Sustainable Construction Materials: The use of Warmcell cellulose fibre for wall insulation not only provided superior thermal performance but also avoided the carbon impact of traditional rigid foam insulation. This environmentally responsible choice contributed significantly to the overall carbon efficiency of the building.
• Innovative Structural Solutions: Due to large internal spans and the need for a thin floor construction, steel beams were incorporated to support the upper floor. Our flexibility in design allowed us to use 38×184 CLS timber stud sizes, which are more than twice the depth of standard timber frames, creating ample space for the blown cellulose insulation.
• Lightweight Floor Construction: To manage the weight and ensure stability over the large spans, we used metal web posi-joists, sourced from a specialist supplier. This system provided the strength needed while keeping the overall weight down, making it ideal for the project’s specific structural needs.
• Thermal Performance with SIPs: For the roof, where thermal performance was crucial and full-height ceilings were desired, Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) were the perfect solution. SIPs provided exceptional insulation, airtightness, and overall energy efficiency, helping to achieve the project’s ambitious sustainability goals.
• Finishing Touches: To complete the building’s aesthetic, we added a Douglas fir framed roof extension, bringing a natural and stylish finish to the overall design.

In addition to providing these structural and insulation solutions, we also supplied and installed Rationel windows, known for their energy-efficient performance and sleek design.

This project showcases our ability to integrate sustainable materials and innovative building solutions to create high-performance, carbon-efficient homes. By using a mix of environmentally friendly materials, advanced construction techniques, and custom-designed systems, we delivered a building that is not only energy-efficient but also contributes to a sustainable future.

Visit website