Application of External Wall Insulation Systems - Alsecco

Application of External Wall Insulation SystemsFor Basic, Ecomin and supplementary systems

2 alsecco external wall insulation systemsIntroductionThis brochure is designed to assist in the quick, safeand successful application of alsecco systems.We know only too well the demands made on thecontractor are increasing all the time. We believe it isnot only our job to manufacture products and systemsfor the façade but also to explain these products andsystems to you.At alsecco this starts with courses run at our Trainingand Technology Centre, where you can find out all youneed to know about alsecco products and theirapplication. However our support is not confined to thetheory – we also provide support for you on site.alsecco’s technical advisors will assist through allconstruction phases of your project and be on hand toanswer questions and h elp with problems as and whenrequired.First-hand experience: at the Trainingand Technology Centre and on site.We wish you every success in your projects – andremember our technical advisors are on hand to helpat any time.alsecco façade technology enablesyou to work efficientlyWe are constantly developing our products and therefore reserve the right tomake changes for technological reasons or due to building regulations. Pleaserefer to our current technical data sheets.

3ContentsPagealsecco external wall insulation systemsBasic 4Basic Phenolic 5Ecomin 6Alprotect Carbon 7Alprotect Quattro 8Alprotect Nova 9Design requirements 11General application requirements 11Substrate – pre-treatment 12Installing the insulationGeneral information 13Attaching plinth rails 14Fixing insulation boards with adhesive 15Fixing insulation boards with mechanical fixings 18Fixing insulation boards mechanically 19Application of connections, edges and joints 21Application of reinforcing layer 25Surface Finishing 27Plaster 27Ceramic tiles and brick slips 30Flat facing bricks 31Alwood 32Decorative profiles 37Ashlars 40Supplementary systems 41Plinth and perimeter insulation 41

4alsecco external wall insulation systemsExternal wall insulation systemsBASICThe Basic external wall insulation system is a realsuccess. Both economical and versatile, it has provedsuccessful for many decades and for millions of squaremetres, in a wide variety of uses. The system helps tosave energy, to protect the environment and providelong-term protection for the building. At the same timethe level of comfort inside the building is increased anda pleasant indoor climate is created. With its widerange of associated finishes such as plaster, ceramicsor wood, the architect, designer and owner has almostunlimited scope for realising creative ideas.System featuresnnnnnnExternal wall insulation with polystyreneinsulationHigh level of economic efficiencyVersatile in application up to the limit stipulatedfor high-rise buildings (varies between countries)Building material class B1 to DIN 4102, flameresistantWide range of design optionsBBA approvedSubstrateArmatop MP AdhesiveEPSMechanical FixingArmatop MPBasecoat & Mesh 32Top Primer &DecorativeRender Finish

5BASIC PHENOLICThe Basic Phenolic systems use rigid phenolic boardas the insulation core which provides increased levelsof thermal performance from a thinner insulation board.These systems are ideal for refurbishment projects andhave been used to help to save energy, preserve theenvironment and offer long term protection for thebuilding. Basic Phenolic offers a wide range ofassociated finishes such as render, wood and acrylicsoffering the architect limitless design options.System featuresnnnnnnExternal wall insulation with phenolic boardinsulationIncreased thermal performanceWater repellentExcellent weathering and durabilityExcellent for detailingWide range of textures, colours and finishesSubstrateArmatop MP AdhesiveRigid Phenolic BoardMechanical FixingArmatop PORBasecoat & Mesh 32Top Primer &DecorativeRender Finish

6 alsecco external wall insulation systemsECOMINThe Ecomin external wall insulation system provides anideal combination of thermal insulation and fireprotection. It was the first mineral system on the marketand since then has proved extremely successful. Wideexperience with the system guarantees a high level ofquality and functional reliability. The Ecomin systemoffers a high level of water vapour permeability, helpssave energy and ensures long term maintenance of thefabric of the building. The system also ensures the fullrange of design possibilities.System featuresnExternal wall insulation system with mineral woolinsulationn Building materials class A to DIN 4102non-flammable, can be used for high-risebuildingsSubstratennAllows a high level of water vapour permeabilityBBA approvedArmatop MP AdhesiveMineral WoolMechanical FixingArmatop L Basecoat& Universal MeshTop Primer& DecorativeRender Finish

7ALPROTECT CARBONAlprotect Carbon is the first external wall insulationsystem to offer unique carbon fibre technology.Ensuring maximum resistance to mechanical stress (upto 60 joules) and improved thermal performance,Alprotect Carbon provides extreme durability andversatility to modern façade design. This slim-linepatented system achieves enormous stability andunrivalled impact strength.System featuresnnnnnnnCarbon fibre technologyUnrivalled impact strength for a thin coat systemUp to 60 joules achievableWide range of colours including dark andintensive hues30% application time saving compared withconventional high impact solutionsEnhanced protection against algae and fungalgrowthMaximum level of crack resistanceSubstrateArmatop MP AdhesiveEPSMechanical FixingArmatop Carbon Basecoat& Carbon MeshTop Primer &DecorativeRender Finish

8 alsecco external wall insulation systemsALPROTECT QUATTROAlprotect Quattro is extremely resistant to mechanicalstress, offers high thermal performance and providesthe ultimate protection against soiling and algae andfungal growth. In addition, highly elastic organiccomponents guarantee high impact resistance andreliable crack bridging properties.System featuresnnnnnOrganic system – totally cement freeHigh level of impact resistanceLow material consumptionWide range of colours to a light reflectancevalue of 15Enhanced protection against algae and fungalgrowthSubstrateArmatop MP AdhesiveEPSMechanical FixingArmatop QuattroBasecoat &Quattro MeshTop Primer& DecorativeRender Finish

9ALPROTECT NOVAThe first system to be classified with EuropeanTechnical Approval Fire Protection Class A, AlprotectNova combines unique patented carbon technologyand nano-hybrid binders, resulting in a mineral woolexternal wall insulation system that sets new standardsin terms of protection and durability. The systemformulations can also be applied with light reflectancevalues as low as 5%, ensuring all shades of colourincluding dark ones and even black can be usedsuccessfully for the façade finish.System featuresnnnnnnnnMaximum fire protectionPatented carbon fibre technologyUnrivalled impact strength from thin coat systemUp to 60 joules achievableHighest level of dark colours permissible30% application time saving compared withconventional high impact solutionsMaximum level of crack resistanceEnhanced protection from algae andfungal growthSubstrateArmatop MP AdhesiveMineral WoolMechanical FixingArmatop Nova Basecoat& Nova MeshTop Primer &DecorativeRender Finish

10 Application recommendations forexternal wall insulation systems

11Design requirementsGeneral application requirementsThe special requirements for fixing external wallinsulation systems must be taken into account whenplanning the façade insulation. Every detail must becarefully and comprehensively planned, especiallywhen renovating a building, the specifier must carry outa thorough assessment of the substrate. alsecco isalways available to provide any help required withregard to such planning operations or testing of thesubstrate.The substrate to be insulated must be even. Anyirregularities in the substrate must not exceed 1cm forbonded systems, 2cm for bonded and mechanicallyfixedsystems and 3cm for rail fixed systems. Thestandards DIN 18202 and 18203, Tolerance in Buildingconstruction, must be complied with. Any irregularitiesbeyond these limits must be levelled out by applyingregulating plaster or using some other suitablemeasure.Façade weatherproofing is of particular importance withregards long-term maintenance of the fabric of thebuilding. Eaves, overhangs or flashings should besufficient to avoid staining on the system.Joints of the façade openings such as windows anddoors, window sills, penetration in systems, roof edging,balconies, aluminium, structural glass and natural stone,must be carefully sealed so that no moisture canpenetrate behind the external wall insulation system.For the contractor, an important component of the generalbuilding supervision approval is the stipulation that allcomponents of an external wall insulation system mustbe supplied by the same manufacturer. Only the rigorousapplication of compatible and tested system componentscan guarantee an optimum end result in the long term.This is particularly important as regards the warranty. Acontractor can only rely on the manufacturer’s warrantyif he has obtained all the products from the samemanufacturer.The specified minimum temperature must be compliedwith during application and drying of the systemcomponents. For mineral reinforcing mortars and finishingplasters this temperature is +3°C, for cement-freereinforcing mortars, synthetic resin and silicone resinplasters it is +5°C, and for silicate plasters it is +8°C.Protection may have to be provided in the event of rain,wind and full sunlight to ensure that the system can beapplied correctly.For the application of synthetic-resin plasters, please referto the recommendations of current building regulations.When erecting scaffold, please ensure that it is sufficientlyfar from the building to allow room for the application.A basic requirement for carrying out insulation work is thatthe structure of the building must be dried out properly.Interior plasterwork and screed floors should have driedout sufficiently. Problem-free application is better if themoisture of the walling material does not exceed twice thelevel of the equalising moisture of the building materialbefore the start of the cold season and three times thelevel of the equalising moisture after the cold season.alsecco’s Ecomin and tec external wall insulation systemsare particularly safe when the building moisture is critical.The current product data sheets, safety data sheets andinformation printed on the packaging applies in each case.Please consult you alsecco technical advisor who will bepleased to provide the current information on request.

12 Application recommendations forexternal wall insulation systemsSubstrate Pre-treatmentSubstrate pre-treatmentBefore fixing an external wall insulation system withadhesive (and fixings), it is generally advisable to checkthat the substrate is suitable for bonding. If necessary, thesubstrate should be pre-treated as indicated in the tablebelow. Substrate pre-treatment is not necessary as a ruleif systems are fixed mechanically (using the rail system).SubstrateTreatmentDusty, dirtySweep, brush , steam-cleanEfflorescenceEliminate the causeSweep, brush, steam-cleanMoss, algae, fungusRemoveMortar ridgesKnock offSinter skinRemove mechanicallyAlternatively use rail fixingGreasy, forming oily residueSteam-clean with added cleaning agentRinse off with waterBrittle, unsound plasterRemove mechanicallyAlternatively use rail fixingDamaged plasterKnock off blisteringFill damaged areas with cement-lime mortarSynthetic-resin plasterCleanChalking coat of paintClean and primeFlaking coat of paintRemoveAlternatively use rail fixingAbsorbentClean and primeSurface releases sandUneven areas ± 1 cmClean and primeUse levelling plaster with cement-lime mortar(min setting time 14 days)Bitumen paintUse Waterstop Cellarseal Was coupling agent, sand downThick bitumen coatingRemoveCheck the adhesionon substrates that have not been identified

Installing the insulation13Installing the insulationBASIC – EPSECOMIN – MINERAL WOOLnnThe boards can be attached solely with adhesiveif the substrate is suitable. The boards may alsobe mechanically fixed as a back-up.Additional fixing – using mechanical fixings isrequired on substrates that are not suitable forthe bonded method only.Mineral-wool insulating boards HDnnOn all substrates these boards must be bondedand fixed using alsecco approved fixings.Alternatively, the boards can also be fixed withthe rail system.nAs an alternative, the insulation boards can alsobe fixed with the rail system.BASIC – PHENOLICnOn all substrates these boards must be bondedand fixed using alsecco approved fixings.Laminated boardsnThese boards can be attached by adhesive onlyon suitable substrates and at heights below 20m.At heights above 20m the boards must bemechanically fixed as well, using alseccoapproved laminated fixings.nOn substrates that are not suitable for bondedapplication only, the boards must be attachedwith alsecco approved laminate fixings at allheights.Special instructions apply to ceramic (page 30) andAlwood finishes (pages 32-36).For further information about board fixing and selectingthe correct fixing, please contact the alsecco technicaldepartment.

14 Application recommendations forexternal wall insulation systemsInstalling the insulationAttaching plinth railsFixing the plinth rail11 The size of the plinth rails and the angle rails mustbe chosen to suit the selected thickness of insulationboard and system construction. Alsifix N hammerfixings, spaced up to 50cm apart are used to fix theplinth rail in position so it is torsion-free as well asvertical and flush. Shims must be used to compensatefor any differences in level and the rails must beinterconnected by means of connectors.Creating corners22 The corner links are created with plinth cornerprofiles or with mitred plinth rails.Profile extension33 For thick-layered plaster a profile extension ishooked into the plinth rail. The hook-in profiles must bemitred at the corners.

15Fixing insulation boardswith adhesiveAny irregularities in the substrate must be levelled outby a suitable bonding method or different thicknessesof the insulation material, or, if appropriate, by applyinga levelling render. The appropriate adhesive must beselected for the substrate (mineral or synthetic-resinbased)Mineral wool insulation boards must be coated withadhesive on the areas to be bonded before the boardsare fixed in place.APPLICATION OF ADHESIVE1a The spot-and-bead method involves theapplication of a bead of adhesive around the outside ofthe insulation boards. Individual spots of adhesive areapplied to the centre of the boards. Care must be takento ensure that the edges of the boards are kept cleanand that at least 40-50% of the board face is bonded tothe substrate.1aSpot-and-beadmethod1b The notched-trowel method can be used if thesubstrate is very even. This involves applying theadhesive over the whole of the back of the board andthen combing through with a notched trowel (minimum10mm x 10mm notches). The edges of the boards mustbe kept clean.1bNotched-trowelmethod1c The adhesive can be applied to the insulationboards mechanically. This involves applying a beadnear the outside edge. Appropriate beads are appliedto the centre of the board so that at least 40-50% of theboard face is bonded to the substrate. Care must betaken to ensure that the edges of the boards are keptclean.1cApplying adhesive tothe insulation boardsmechanically

175 The façade insulation boards must be laid in patternat corners and for jamb depths >25cm (cornerformation). For jambs 1cm.6Closingopen joints7 In the case of polystyrene insulation boards, anyraised areas must be smoothed away and all the dustremoved.The insulation boards must not be fixed until theadhesive has dried out and not less than 20 hours afterapplication of the adhesive.7Smoothing raisedjoints on polystyreneinsulation boardsInsulation boards should not be exposed to weatheringfor any extended period.

18Application recommendations forexternal wall insulation systemsInstalling the insulationFixing insulation boards withmechanical fixingsFor fixing approval, mechanical fixings have to beanchored to the required depth in the solid wall. Tiles,old plaster coatings and similar materials are notsuitable anchoring substrates.If in doubt about the suitability of the substrate, the pulloutstrength of the plugs has to be determined bymeasurements taken on site.Hammer fixings1a 11a Polystyrene insulation boards fixed with adhesivecan be secured with hammer fixings as an additionalsafety measure. This procedure involves using suitabledrills to prepare a hole for the fixings, inserting thefixings and driving them in.Crusher fixings1b1b Crusher fixings can be used in addition to fix theboards in position on suitable substrates. The fixing ispunched through the insulation board with a specialtool and anchored in the substrate by means of apropellant so that it is flush with the insulation board. Itis important that the substrate strength, the fixinglength and the propellant charge are matched.Screwed fixings1c1c Fixing insulation boards with building-authorityapproved screwed plugs involves using a suitable drillto prepare a hole for the fixing. The fixing is inserted andscrewed tight with a suitable slow-speed screw-driverattachment.

19Fixing insulation boardsmechanicallySubstrates that are classified as not being suitable forthe application of adhesive can be insulatedmechanically, using a rail support system. This isadvisable particularly if the substrate pre-treatmentwould be very time consuming eg if the existing plasterhas to be removed. HD-M mineral wool insulationboards and PS 15-M polystyrene insulation boards havegrooves on the outside and have an offset cut. Theinsulation boards are mechanically attached to thesubstrate by mean of rails and connecting profiles.1 A bead of adhesive is applied in addition to the firstrow of boards to prevent air penetrating behind theinsulation level.1 Fixing plinth rail2 The rails (metal for mineral wool and plastic forpolystyrene) are anchored in the sound substratehorizontally and with a maximum gap of 30cm betweenthe building-authority approved fixings. Any differencesin the level of the substrate are compensated by meansof shims.2 Fitting the rails3 Before the rails are attached, one or more spots ofadhesive must be applied to the centre of the boards,depending on the weight per unit area and the height.3 Applying spotsof adhesive

20Application recommendations forexternal wall insulation systemsInstalling the insulationConnecting T-profiles44 Connecting T-profiles are fixed onto the vertical jointof the insulation boards. The insulation boards must befixed in pattern with continuous butt joints.Connections55 The insulation boards in the connecting areas forroofs, balconies, window sills and other projecting unitsmust be fixed by means of vertically fitted rails.Insulating boards in jamb areas must be bonded and, ifnecessary, mechanically fixed. Pieces cut to fit must befinished with grooving planes.

Application of connections, edges and joints21Application of connections,edges and jointsCONNECTIONSExternal wall insulation systems must be protectedagainst ingress of water. Connections with other buildingunits such as windows, doors, roof and place where thebuilding units break through, as well as connections withbuilding units made of glass, metal and wood must besealed in keeping with the system.Depending on the area, the sealing zone must be maderainproof by using render beads, joint sealing strips ofthe appropriate size or alsecco sealant.PLASTER GROUNDS1 Cut the render bead to the required height and cutback the tab for the protective film in the corner area.In keeping with the required application thickness inthe jamb, apply the render bead to the clean window ordoor frames and push firmly into place.1 Attaching the plastergrounds2 Apply the protective film for the windows to theself-adhesive tabs on the render bead.2 Applying theprotective film3 The mesh attached to the render bead is embeddedin the reinforcing layer. There must be a 10cm overlapwhere the mesh joins the other glass fibre mesh. A cutmust be made on the tabs of the render bead and thetabs removed once the surface structure has beencompleted.3 Applying thereinforcement

22 Application recommendations forexternal wall insulation systemsApplication of connections,edges and jointsJointing tape4a4 a The jointed tape is fitted in other connecting areasto suit the size of the joint.Insulating jointingcompound4b4 b alsecco sealant is injected in to the prepared jointwith a hand-operated gun and smoothed over with abrush and water. Only as much sealant should beinjected as can be smoothed over before it forms a skin.EDGES OF BUILDINGSThe appropriate corner beads are fully embedded in thereinforcing layer to create vertical and impact-resistantedges on buildings.Mesh beads1a1a Fully embed the mesh beads on the insulationboards in the reinforcing layer. Overlap the meshapprox 10cm at the joints by cutting out the innerreinforcement. The reinforcing mesh for the main areais subsequently applied onto the mesh of the cornerbead with at least 10cm overlap.

231b Corner beads are fully embedded in the reinforcingcompound on the insulation board. The mesh must havea 10cm overlap at the joints. The reinforcing mesh for themain area is subsequently applied onto the mesh of thecorner beads with about 10cm overlap.1bCorner beadswith mesh1c The corner beads are fully embedded in thereinforcing layer. The plastic coating of the lower rail ispushed approx 5cm over the upper rail at the joint. Thereinforcing mesh for the main area is brought right upto the edge of the corner bead. In the case of thicklayeredscraped-finish systems, the corner protectionrail is placed onto the reinforcing layer and coveredwith a scraped finish.1cCorner beads withplastic edge1d Fully embed the stainless steel bead in thereinforcing compound. The reinforcing mesh for themain area is brought right up to the edge of the building.The rail joint must be covered with an additional layerof mesh. The stainless steel bead can then be plasteredover.1dStainless steel beads,embedded in render

24 Application recommendations forexternal wall insulation systemsConnections, edges and jointsCONSTRUCTION JOINT FINISHINGConstruction joint finishing or settlement joints mustalso be incorporated in the alsecco external wallinsulation systems. This procedure essentially involvesusing the associated expansion joint profiles, whichmust be selected in accordance with the expectedmovement joint.Expansion profile,thin-layered11 The reinforcing layer is applied to insulation boardson both sides of the joint before the mesh strip of theexpansion joint profile is worked into the reinforcinglayer. There must be 10cm overlap at butt joints. Toensure an even joint width and avoid contamination, aprotective strip as wide as the joint should be placed inthe profile before the reinforcing layer and finishingcoat are applied, working sideways towards thisprotective strip. The coating should then be separatedby means of a trowel, cut and the protective stripremoved.2. Expansion jointprofile, thick-layered22 The expansion joint profile for a thick-layeredsystem is fully embedded in the reinforcing layer. Theplastic cover is pushed about 5cm above the upper railat butt joints. The mesh is brought right up to the plasticedge of the expansion joint profile.

Application of reinforcing layer25Application of reinforcing layerThe reinforcing layer is made with the system’sassociated render compounds, which are applied withthe appropriate minimum thickness (see product datasheets). The reinforcing layer must not be applied untilafter the adhesive has hardened ie not less than 24hours afterwards.1 An addition diagonal reinforcement must be appliedaround the façade openings. This invokes embeddingdiagonal strips in the reinforcing mesh.1 Applying the diagonalreinforcement2 Apply the reinforcing layer to the insulation boardsto the width of the mesh. The reinforcing mesh must bepressed in to the reinforcing layer with a 10cm overlap.The mesh should always be embedded in such a waythat in the case of thin-layered reinforcement, the meshis in the middle of the reinforcing layer and in the caseof thick-layered reinforcement it is in the upper third ofthe reinforcing layer. The mesh can be laid eithervertically or horizontally.2Embedding thereinforcing mesh

26 Application recommendations forexternal wall insulation systemsApplication of reinforcing layerFixing the plasterbaseboard1MAKING THE REINFORCEMENT LAYER IMPACTRESISTANT1 The alsecco external wall insulation systems canbe made impact resistant by applying alsecco plasterbaseboard. In this area the insulation is applied 1cmthinner than in the rest of the system. The plasterbaseboard is adhered to the insulation board using thenotch-trowel method and attached with the appropriatealsecco screwed fixings. The adhesive is then appliedto the plaster baseboard.Countersinking theplug discs22 The appropriate cutter head is used on the boardsto produce flush countersinking of the fixing discs.Double reinforcementat the system transitionpointsImpact resistantbasecoats343 alsecco cover strips are applied to the jointsbetween the plaster baseboards immediately beforethe reinforcement. Double reinforcement must beapplied at the transition from plaster baseboard toinsulation board by inserting a mesh strip.Alternatively, areas that are subject to impact can alsobe prepared with panzer mesh. This panzer mesh mustbe laid with a butt joint and must not be moulded aroundcorners. Areas reinforced with panzer mesh must becovered over in addition with the appropriate glassfibre mesh for the system.4 alsecco also manufacture a range of impactresistant basecoats. Specifying Alprotect Carbon,Alprotect Nova or Alprotect Quattro ensuresoutstanding durability of the façade for the long-term.These basecoats have been tested to high qualitystandards and offer impact resistance up to 60 joules.

27Surface FinishingPLASTER FINISHESThe final coating and the textured layer of mineralplasters are applied after the reinforcement or basecoatand any primer have dried out fully. It is vital that theweather-dependent conditions are complied with.At high temperatures and wind loading suitablemeasures must be taken to protect mineral plastersagainst drying out too quickly.The final coat must be selected and applied in keepingwith the system.When selecting the required shades, care must betaken to ensure that in the case of large, adjacentsurfaces, the value of luminance of the shade selectedfor the final coat or the plaster is not less than 20.Darker shades may be applied, but please contactalsecco for advice.To avoid visible joints the coating must be applied toany connected surfaces wet in wet in a singleoperation. Depending on the size of the area therefore,sufficient works must be made available to apply thefinal coats and plasters.If the substrates do not have the same moisture contentor if the weather conditions are not favourable, mineralplasters will show some patchiness when dry. This isnot a product defect. We recommend application of alevelling coat once coloured mineral plasters havedried out. This does not apply to scraped finishes.The application of final coats and plasters is subject tothe British Standards / Codes of Practice.

28 Application recommendations forexternal wall insulation systemsSurface FinishingPaint base1Primer1 The application of a product-specific primer isrecommended, since it makes the subsequent final coateasier to apply. A primer is particularly advisable fordecorative plasters with a grooved texture to preventthe reinforcing layer from shining through. The primeris applied after the reinforcing layer has dried out.Applying thefinishing plaster22 The textured plaster (stippling) is applied with astainless steel trowel. For sand-float finishes at grainthickness, for felted or moulded textures in thickerlayers. Scraped finishes are applied at about threetimes the grain thickness and smoothed over with along float.Creating grooved orsand-float finishes3aCreating grooved or sand-float finishes3a/3b Float finishes can have different appearancesdepending on the scoring (horizontal, vertical, circular)used. Trowelling plasters are always scored with acircular motion.A coat of levelling paint may have to be applied afterthe plaster has fully dried out.3b

29Creating felted textures3c Felt plasters are rubbed down with a suitable floatonce the plaster has started to set, so that a smoothsurface can be produced.If necessary, a coat of levelling paint must be appliedwhen the plaster has dried out fully.3cCreating afelted finishTexturing a scraped finish3d Scraped finishes are achieved by rubbing downthe hardened plaster (the time required for hardeningdepends on the weather conditions) with a spike float.Care must be taken to ensure that the texture is notscratched through to the reinforcing layer. Looseparticles on the surface are then swept off.3dTexturing ascraped finishApplication of a spar dash finish3e Apply Spar Dash DLX basecoat approx 5mm.Notch with a 10mm toothed trowel and float specifiedreinforcing mesh ensuring 100mm horizontal andvertical overlap. Ensure stress patches applied atcorners at openings with 250 x 250 mesh strips.Immediately apply 1-2mm of basecoat render finish,smooth and leave to dry.3eApplying SparDash Basecoat3f Apply Spar Dash receiver to minimum 4mm(dependent on Spar Dash chipping size) and trowellevel to receive Dash. Immediately apply dash chippingsin the open fresh mortar layer.3fApplying SparDash Receiver

30 Application recommendations forexternal wall insulation systemsSurface FinishingSURFACE FINISHING WITHCERAMIC TILES AND BRICK SLIPSThe alsecco external wall insulation systems can befinished with ceramic tiles or brick slips. Please note thespecial fixing instructions.Tiling using thebuttering-floatingmethod11 Ceramic tiles or brick slips must be attached to thehardened reinforcing compound using Bedding MortarA and the buttering-floating method. This involvesapplying the adhesive to the tile and the substrate, thengently sliding the tile into position.Grouting22 After waiting for at least 4 days, the ceramic tilesare grouted with Grout AS. Brick slips are grouted withGrout A (using a jointing iron) or Grout AS (slushgrouting.Flexible joints must be incorporated in the laying patternof ceramic tiles. These joints, running in both a verticaland horizontal direction, must be kept free from jointmortar and closed with a flexible jointing material. Asimilar procedure applies at the corners of buildings.Connecting joints must be created by cutting into therender (base coat) with a trowel, filling the gap withnon-absorbent round cord and sealing it with a flexiblejointing material.

31SURFACE FINISHING WITH FLAT FACING BRICKSA brick slips appearance can also be achieved applyingflat facing bricks to the alsecco basic external wallinsulating system.1 Use a notched trowel to apply Klebespatchel AF tothe hardened reinforcing layer made of Armatop MPwith a glass fibre mesh 32. Only ever apply as muchKlebespatchel AF as can be covered with flat facingbricks before a skin is formed. The time available isdependent on the weather conditions. Lay the flatfacing bricks in a pattern and press them firmly in toposition by gently sliding them into the KlebespatchelAF.1 Applying flatfacing bricks2 Immediately after the flat facing bricks have beenapplied, a flat brick must be drawn along the joints and theflanks of the flat facing bricks smoothed over.2 JointingAlternatively, a smooth finish option is possible usingappropriate joint mortar.

32 Application recommendations forexternal wall insulation systemsSurface FinishingSURFACE FINISHING WITH ALWOOD1. Fixing the strapping1Alwood is a surface finishing option for the Ecomin andBasic system and is made of solid wood. This allows woodas a material to be integrated in an ideal way within amixed façade surface – all connections in the systemhaving been solved. Please note that the reinforcement inthe transition areas between the surfaces to be panelledwith Alwood and the window jambs must be evenly drawnout to 25cm. No additional plugging of the insulationboards is required in the areas to be panelled, as theplugging is effected via the strapping.Floor-to-batten boarding1 The laying pattern must be worked out before thefinishing surface. UK Profiles HL must be alignedhorizontally and anchored in the substrate with theappropriate Alsifix fixings at 50cm intervals. Thenumber of plugs required depends on the thickness ofthe insulation material and the wall. The plug headmust be protected against corrosion with a spot ofAlsifix Protect paint.Levelling out anuneven substrate22 Any irregularities in the substrate must be levelledout with Alwood spacers (3mm). If necessary, the 16mmspacers can be used to create additional links betweenthe UK Profiles HL.Forming the lowerconnections33 The lower connections of the strapping are finishedoff by fitting the Alwood UK End Profile HL with a vent.These profiles are fitted approx 5-10cm above the lowerend of the visible wood panelling.

334 The upper ends of the strapping are formed by fittingthe appropriate Alwood Vented Profiles to the top most UKProfile.4 Forming the upperconnectionsFitting the weatherboarding5 First the floor profiles are applied to the whole area.At the same time the Alwood Natural Profiles are fixedto the strapping with one Alwood façade screw at eachcrossing point. Since the screw remains visible, it isadvisable to mark the screw height with a stretchedcord.5Fitting thefloor profiles6 The gaps created between the floor profiles arethen sealed at the upper and lower UK Profiles withAlwood sealing tape to prevent the façade from beingattacked by small animals and insects.6Sealing thefloor profiles7 The cover profiles (covers or strips) are fixed abovethe gaps between the floor panels (please note:minimum overlap on both sides is 20mm).For this the Alwood Natural Profiles SK are fixed ateach crossing point to the UK profiles, irrespective ofthe width of the panels, with 1 or 2 Alwood façadescrews. The screws must not be inserted through thefloor and the cover at the same time. In the case ofexpansion joints or similar, the joint cover strips arefixed in position with only a single screw.7 Fixing thecover profiles

34Application recommendations forexternal wall insulation systemsSurface FinishingCreating abroad-root joint88 Connections between end-grain wood and wood orother materials have a board-root joint of 5mm.Final bucking99 We recommend initially cutting the Alwood NaturalProfiles SK only roughly to the right length. These are thencut to correct length with a hand-held circular saw andguiding rail after the profiles have been fixed to the façade.The Alwood Natural Profiles SK must have an under-cut ofat least 15° (throating).Treatment ofcut edges1010 All cut edges must be treated twice with AlwoodWood Paint.Applying plaster tothe adjacent surfaces1111 Finally the textured areas are finished with theselected alsecco plaster. The plasters are drawn up tothe lower, upper and/or lateral connections of the woodpanelling or strapping, as applicable. A trowel must beused to separate the plaster and the wood in theconnection areas.

35BEVEL SIDINGFitting the strapping1 Fitting thestrapping1 Prepare laying pattern before starting the actualwork. Align the UK Profiles vertically at intervals of50cm and anchor them to the substrate with approvedfixings. The number of fixings required is dependent onthe thickness of the insulating material and the wall.Any irregularities in the substrate must be levelled outwith Alwood spacers. The fixing heads must beprotected against corrosion with paint.Fitting the weather boarding2 An Alwood edging strip is fitted to the lower end of thebevel siding. Always work from the bottom to the top whenapplying bevel siding. The Alwood Natural Profiles ST fittogether on account of their integrated groove. Ensure thatthere is sufficient overlap (at least 18mm). Screw the woodprofiles on the UK Profiles into position with 1 Alwoodfaçade screw at each crossing point (at least 10mm fromthe edge). For visible screws use Alwood Façade screwsthat are 60mm in length, for concealed screws use AlwoodFaçade Screws that are 45mm in length.3 Close off the lower or visible upper ends by fittingan Alwood Venting Profile ALU. The upper ends of thestrapping are finished by fitting Alwood Venting ProfilesKU or AW behind the topmost Alwood Natural ProfileST.2 Fitting theprofiles3 Finishing the upperand lower ends4 The cut edges are treated twice with Alwood WoodPaint.4 Treatment of thecut edges

36Application recommendations forexternal wall insulation systemsSurface FinishingFixing the sideedging strips55 The side are finished off with Alwood edging strips.Create a board-root joint of at least 5-10mm.Connections of end-grain wood and wood or othermaterials must have a broad-root joint of 5mm.

Decorative Profiles37Decorative Profilesalsecco decorative profiles can be used to structurefaçades in many different ways. The substrates towhich they are applied must be level and anyirregularities must be levelled out with profile adhesiveif necessary. If used in external wall insulation systems,the decorative profiles must always be applied to afinished and suitable reinforcing layer. The profiles tobe fixed to the façade must be measured according tothe laying plan and their position marked. Ensure thatwindow sill profiles are centrally aligned.1 The profiles are cut to size with a hacksaw and acarbide blade, using a mitre block.1 Cutting the decorativeprofiles to size2 Apply profiles adhesive with a notched trowel to thesubstrate and the rear and cut faces of the profiles(buttering-floating method). Attached the profilesaccording to the laying plan, press them firmly intoplace with a straight edge and secure them againstslipping, if necessary.2 Using thebuttering-floatingmethod3 For corners, use a mitre-cut on the profiles andattached them with profile adhesive. Alternativelyfactory-cut (mitred) profiles are available.3 Mitring windowsill profiles

38Application recommendations forexternal wall insulation systemsDecorative ProfilesSealing adhesivejoints44 Frames and window sill profiles are joined tight withadhesive at the butt joint. The joints are filled and abrush is used to smooth over the excess profileadhesive. Care must be taken to ensure that the jointsare completely sealed.Joining corniceswith butt joints55 Profiles running around the outside of the buildinge.g. cornices, are not pushed tightly together, but fixedin position with a 1cm gap in between using thebuttering-floating method. Care must be taken to ensurean even spacing of joints.Filling the butt jointswith foam66 Fill the butt joints with alsecco foam filler, more than24 hours after attaching the profiles.Filling the jointswith sealant77 Once the foam filler has hardened, the joints arescraped out about 1cm deep and filled with alseccosealant.

398 Use alsecco plaster and apply a minimum layerthickness to smooth over window jambs. Once theplaster has begun to set, use a float to smooth thesurface. Accurate corners are produced if thedecorative profile is positioned about 3mm above thewindow jamb towards the centre of the window. Theprojecting profile edge allows a sharp trowelapplication to the jamb.8 Smoothing overthe jambs9 When installing decorative window sill profiles, thehorizontal window sill jamb has to be insulated andreinforced. Care must be taken to ensure that the slopeof the jamb matches that of the window sill profile.9 Reinforcement ofthe window sill10 The connection to the window frame must besealed with alsecco sealant.10 Sealing withwindow connectionsalsecco weather skin must be applied in two operationsto provide protection against damp. Embed reinforcingfleece if appropriate.For added colour, the profiles are coated twice with thedesired shade of alsecco face paint M or with alseccolevelling paint.In addition alsecco weather skin must be applied in twooperations to provide protection against damp. Embedreinforcing fleece if appropriate.For added colour/resilience, the profiles are coatedtwice with the desired shade of alsecco exterior façadepaint.

40Application recommendations forexternal wall insulation systemsAshlarsAshlarsAshlars may be applied as decorative profiles tostructure the façades (application as described above).As an alternative, the ashlars can also be cut into theinsulation boards.Milling theashlar joints11 After a guide rail has been attached, holes are sunkinto the insulation boards at marked intervals with amilling cutter and the appropriate milling head. The dustis then carefully removed from the cut grooves.Reinforcing theashlar joints22 The ashlar joints are reinforced with a fine glassfibre mesh and Armatop Basecoat material. The meshmust be applied so that there is at least a 10cm overlapwith the reinforcing mesh of the larger area.Reinforcing andtexturing the surfaces33 For reinforcing the larger area, the mesh should bedrawn right up to the edge of the ashlar joint. Anyfinishing plaster can be applied later to the reinforcedsurface.

Supplementary Systems41Plinth and perimeter insulationSpecial insulation boards of polystyrene PS30 SE orextruded polystyrene are used for the external wallinsulation system near and below ground level.The plinth can be offset or flush with the façade. Theminimum plinth height is 30cm.As substrate pre-treatment, a single coat of WaterstopKellerdicht W is applied to the existing water-proofingof the building and sprinkled with silica sand(0.3-0.7mm) to act as a bonding agent.Please contact alsecco for advice if the wall hasalready been waterproofed with sealing sheet or thicklayers of bitumen.Offset plinths1 The insulation boards are applied with Armatop MP,using the spot-and-bead or notched-trowel method,and pushed tightly together in pattern. At least 40-50%of the surface of the boards must be bonded to thesubstrate. The insulation boards chosen must be about20mm thinner than the façade insulation.1Fitting theinsulation boards2 Joint sealing tape is applied between the plinth railand the plinth insulation boards to provide dampproofing.2Sealing the systemtransition area

42 Application recommendations forexternal wall insulation systemsSupplementary SystemsReinforcing theplinth insulation33 For reinforcing the larger area, the mesh should bedrawn right up to the edge of the quoin joint. Anyfinishing plaster can be applied later to the reinforcedsurface.Preparing thesurface for paint44 Once the reinforcing layer has hardened, apply asecond layer of Armatop WG and rub down with a floatonce it has begun to set.Damp-proofing55 Apply three coats of Waterstop Kellerdicht W ontothe dried reinforcing layer to provide damp-proofingnear and below ground level.Painting66 Façade paint M can be used to paint felted plinthsurfaces. This paint can be applied in two coats oncethe top dried damp-proofing layer of WaterstopKellerdicht W has dried.Alternatively – finish the surface with MultistoneTo apply a layer of Multistone plaster in the plinth areas,quartz sand (0.3-0.7mm) must be sprinkled onto thedamp-proofing consisting of Waterstop Kellerdicht Wfor the third layer. Once this has dried out, a layer ofPrimer P is applied in the same shade as the MultistonePlaster. The desired shade of Multistone is then appliedwith a steel trowel and smoothed over.

43Flush plinth formation1 The insulation boards are applied with Armatop MP,using either spot-and-bead or the notched-trowelmethod, and pushing the insulation bards closetogether in pattern. At least 40% of the board area mustbe bonded to the substrate. The insulation boards musthave the same thickness as the façade insulation.1 Fixing theinsulation boards2 At the transition between the plinth insulation andthe façade insulation, a glass fibre strip approx. 30cmwide is embedded in Armatop Basecoat material.2 Reinforcing thesystem transition point3 The associated reinforcing layer made of ArmatopBasecoat material is applied down to ground level. Ifdifferent reinforcing compounds are used on façadeand the plinth insulation, then the layers are limited bymeans of a plinth rail. Three coats of WaterstopKellerdicht W are applied as damp proofing to the driedreinforcing layer near and below ground level.3 Reinforcing theplinth area4 The textured plaster of the external wall insulationsystems is then applied.4 Applying thetextured plasterSuitable plaster can be applied up to the level of thegravel filling.

Nov 2011Scan for our websitealsecco (UK) Ltd.Whitebridge Way, StoneStaffordshire, ST15 8GHTel: 01785 818998Fax: 01785 818144www.alsecco.co.uk