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Forman, T and Tweed, C (2014) Solid wall insulation retrofit in UK dwellings: Critical factors affecting management and quality. In: Raiden, A and Aboagye-Nimo, E (Eds.), Proceedings 30th Annual ARCOM Conference, 1-3 September 2014, Portsmouth, UK, Association of Researchers in Construction Management, 1367–76.

  • Type: Conference Proceedings
  • Keywords: retrofit; quality; policy; training; organisational culture
  • ISBN/ISSN: 978-0-9552390-8-3
  • URL: http://www.arcom.ac.uk/-docs/proceedings/ar2014-1367-1376_Forman_Tweed.pdf
  • Abstract:
    Driven largely by government policy instruments, the UK solid wall insulation (SWI) industry today is experiencing explosive growth rates. This research explores critical factors in the industryÕs efforts to overcome a legacy of poor design and build quality in retrofit work. The research employs qualitative and ethnographic methods across a range of UK area-based retrofit projects and installer training programmes. It includes participant observation made while working in the role of SWI installer, and an extended study of a leading SWI installation company and its construction management processes. Findings identify patterns of Ôshort-termismÕ, financial pressure, limited technical understanding, and point to immature management practices as recurrent impediments to installation quality. The research argues that in the context of a social-technical-political environment which hinders attainment of quality, new approaches to management are needed in the SWI industry.