12 Aug 2009

Lakehouse is using some innovative technology which will improve air quality on the Brentfield Warner Homes Estate in Willesden. The £3.2M project is being undertaken for Brent Housing Partnership (BHP) and includes external repairs, redecorations and environmental improvements to around 115 street properties.

As part of BHP's plan a Low Carbon Technology Option Appraisal has been undertaken, resulting in the selection of photovoltaic technology for this site. Lakehouse is fitting solar photovoltaic panels to around 87 homes - these will maximise energy and running cost savings on this estate and are expected to generate approximately one third of the electricity required for each dwelling.

With BHP placing more emphasis on the sustainability of the building materials utilised and the optimisation of the environment Lakehouse has suggested use of an innovative roof tile known as EcoLogic. These tiles are coated in titanium dioxide to soak up nitrogen oxide pollutants, produced by road traffic exhaust and industrial output. Nitrogen oxide is a contributor to smog and acid rain and an aggravator of respiratory problems such as asthma, especially in children and the elderly.

The UK manufactured EcoLogic tiles are being installed to all dwellings that require roofing. One average roof covered in EcoLogic tiles removes as much nitrogen oxide from the air in its lifetime as a car produces in 100,000 miles. The tiles are made from over 50% recycled materials, much higher levels than standard concrete tiles, and have achieved an 'A' rating (the lowest environmental impact) in the Building Research Establishment's Green Guide to Specification.

They incorporate environmental properties, sustainability and the cost effective performance characteristics of concrete tile technology. Better still, they are improving air quality and providing health benefits for the local community.