The construction project at Gregory's Court in Bodmin, Cornwall, was part of a £79 Million upgrade to council houses across the region. The refurbishment led by Cornwall Housing began early in 2024, included several architectural changes to modernise and improve the two blocks of flats which were originally constructed in the 1970s. These changes included replacing roofs, windows and guttering, removing the old insulation and installing new rainscreen cladding to the facades.

BuildX (SW) were the main contractor of this refurbishment and chose Valcan’s Evverlap Fibre Cement Cladding Weatherboards in solid shades of Slate Grey and Clay Brown for the exterior feature and spandrel panels of the blocks. Weatherboarding is a traditional cladding system that historically focused on real timber.

As well as giving the facades an updated, modern and a natural appearance, these panels are also A2 Fire Rated to BS EN 13501-1, making them a safe and non-combustible choice.

EvverLap is also very light weight and easy to install using specific VitraFix screws or rivets to either a VitraFix VF1 or VF2 framing systems (depending on wall build-up) to give a complete non-combustible solution. For an overlapping weatherboard type and large format flat sheet installations, fixings are installed at maximum 600 mm centres aligning with the carrier frame behind.

Jon Rosevear, Commercial Director at BuildX (SW) commented, “We’re thrilled to reveal the incredible transformation taking place at Gregory's Court, Bodmin, for our valued client, Cornwall Housing. As the scaffolding gradually came down, the true impact of the refurbishment became evident, and the results are impressive!”

He continued, “The blocks at Gregory's Court have undergone a significant makeover, and the fresh, modern appearance of the buildings is a testament to the quality of work and dedication from everyone involved in this project, and the commitment from Cornwall Housing to improve their stock. The enhanced look not only elevates the aesthetic appeal of the property but also contributes to the overall improvement of the living environment for residents.”

Kent Diffey, Sales Manager of Valcan commented, “It’s great to see our Evverlap planks being used on this residential upgrade in the Southwest, and they’ve been expertly installed by the team at BuildX – well done to everyone involved in this project! They’ve not only improved the aesthetic appeal of the building but has also improved the energy efficiency of these homes, making it a more comfortable and attractive place for its residents.”

As originally featured in the December 2024 issue of RCI Magazine.