Limelite Breathable Plaster System for Major Renovation Project

Location: Kidderminster
Product: Breathable Renovating Plaster System
Timescale: Ongoing

The Challenge

This £10.5 million project aimed to transform the former Kidderminster Magistrates Court into a new Creative Hub comprising 2500 square metres of high-quality office space and a flexible studio and arts events venue for creative industries and businesses. The Grade II listed building was originally built in 1879 and is of solid walled brick construction. The former Magistrates Court building is an important landmark within the town and the architect wanted to preserve the look of the building and use complementary materials. It was also important that the building was comfortable for users and visitors and as thermally efficient as possible within the constraints provided by the existing building.

Our Solution

After discussions with the client, Limelite’s Breathable Plaster System was chosen for this project. The Limelite Renovating Plaster system is specially formulated for use on traditional and listed buildings and is independently accredited by BBA. It comprises three parts: an Easy Bond breathable primer, a breathable, quick drying Renovating Plaster and a breathable High Impact Finishing Plaster. Limelite plasters dry quickly between coats and additional plaster coats or paint to be applied in just 24 hours. They are supplied pre blended and ready to use and are also lightweight and easy to finish. This allows improved productivity and faster completion within the build programme.

Results and benefits

Using the Limelite Breathable Plaster System offered a wide range of benefits to this redevelopment project. Limelite renovating plasters offer a much lower thermal conductivity than gypsum plasters – around three times lower on average. This is due to the use of expanded perlite, which reduced the density of the plaster and improves the insulation properties. Limelite plasters are breathable allowing moisture to be released from substrates, unlike conventional gypsum plaster which is hygroscopic, meaning that moisture from the atmosphere or substrate is absorbed and retained. Less retained moisture helps to protect adjoining materials like timber beams and stone or metal features from mould and corrosion.

Limelite plasters are also proven to help ambient moisture control in sensitive environments like galleries and museums. The tough, impact resistant finish of the High Impact Finishing Plaster would also help protect the walls from damage and help maintain its appearance.