Schöck is the only provider of approved balcony retrofit solutions
Schöck Isokorb R is suitable for use both on free cantilevered and supported structures, and thus offers real freedom of design. Image: Schöck Ltd, royalty free.
A typical example of the type R being installed. Image: Schöck Ltd, royalty free.
The renovation market is one of the many areas affected by increasingly demanding energy performance requirements. As much as 85% of the existing UK building stock is not adequately insulated, if at all, and old balconies are often in a poor state. Consequently they seldom comply with today’s energy standards, let alone future requirements. Schöck is currently the only provider of a complete approved product solution for both connectivity and insulation of a renovated balcony. Because of the relative simplicity of installation, the system has been specified and installed on several projects across the UK and Europe. The Isokorb type R, with its 120mm thick insulating element, offers two alternatives and can connect cantilevered steel balconies, or supported steel balconies, to existing slab structures. The result is a standard of thermal insulation for retrofit balconies that is comparable to newbuild. In addition, the installation is entirely external, so residents can remain in the building and there is no damage to internal finishes or décor.
A choice of injection mortar
In 2016 the new Eurocode 2 approvals: Z-15.7-297 and Z-15.7-298 were issued for the Schöck Isokorb type R, and this results in a greater freedom of choice as to which injection mortar can be used. Previously, Hilti’s HIT-RE 500 was the only injection system approved for bonding Schöck Isokorb R with the existing slab. However, the new approvals permit the use of FIS EM injection mortar from Fischer as well, so installers can choose which certification they prefer.
Certified dependability
The Passive House Institute has certified Isokorb R as a “PHI Low Energy Component” and, in addition, the range meets full compliance with the relevant UK building regulations; has NHBC approval and offers LABC Registration. There is also independent BBA Certification. For complete dependability, Schöck installation engineers are certified to work with both systems and can provide extensive advice for onsite procedures and even arrange training sessions.
