MARMOX THERMOBLOCKS INSULATE TUDOR RECONSTRUCTION
The reconstruction of a former farmyard near Ely in East Cambridgeshire is making effective use of Marmox Thermoblocks to address thermal bridging as part of a high-performance, wellinsulated residential design. Specified in three widths, the Thermoblocks provide a targeted solution around the building perimeter while supporting a traditionally detailed structure.
Mitchell’ s Barn replaces a sprawling complex of dilapidated tin cowsheds alongside an older oak barn that was originally founded on a plinth of Tudorera bricks. Although the original planning permission allowed for reconstruction of the oak structure, dismantling works revealed extensive timber decay and significant frost damage to the brickwork. As a result, the project progressed as a full rebuild, with both 215mm and 140mm wide Marmox Thermoblocks being used to support an 800mm-high brick base. This base will carry conserved oak beams, maintaining a traditional internal appearance while improving overall thermal performance.
The project is being delivered as a selfbuild by owner Ben Hughes, who has taken responsibility for both the design and construction, working alongside builder Peter Axton. The completed home will be a four-bedroom, three-bathroom property, developed primarily under Class Q permitted development rights for the conversion of agricultural buildings to residential use.
Located on an exposed site, the new house has been designed as a single-storey structure arranged around a three-sided courtyard to provide shelter and create a south-facing terrace. A mezzanine level accommodates plant and services, including an air source heat pump and a mechanical ventilation with heat recovery( MVHR) system. While the scale and construction techniques reflect the original barn, the project integrates modern building standards. Additional oak for the frame has been sourced from a tree felled on site.
To comply with Building Regulations, the design incorporates insulated cavity walls, along with 150mm of PIR insulation to the floor and roof. Addressing thermal bridging at the floor-to-wall junction was a key consideration, leading to the specification of Marmox Thermoblock as a dedicated solution. The product provides both structural load-bearing capability and low thermal conductivity, supporting energy efficiency without compromising traditional detailing.
In total, the project has used 144 Thermoblocks measuring 140 x 65mm, along with 18 blocks at 100 x 65mm and 50 blocks sized 215 x 65mm, supplied via Insulation Shop. The blocks were bedded in conventional mortar, with stepped overlaps secured using a highperformance adhesive. Installation has progressed smoothly, with no issues reported when laying or cutting the blocks on site.
With construction ongoing, elements such as window packages are still to be installed. However, the completed property is expected to exceed current Building Regulation requirements, delivering a comfortable and energyefficient home that successfully combines traditional construction methods with modern thermal performance.
Marmox( Uk) Ltd. Caxton House 101-103 Hopewell Drive Chatham Kent ME5 7NP Tel: 01634 835290 Web: www. marmox. co. uk
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8- REFURB & RESTORE