Airtightness & Waterproofing Solutions for Schools & Education
Why Schools Are a Priority Sector
School buildings face a unique combination of requirements: high occupancy density, stringent indoor air quality standards, tight construction programmes (often working in summer holidays), and increasingly ambitious energy performance targets driven by net-zero commitments from local authorities and academy trusts.
Poor airtightness in school buildings increases heating costs, contributes to draughts and cold spots that affect concentration, and creates the conditions for condensation and mould. Intelligent Membranes products have been used on high-profile school projects including Bedford Academy, achieving Passivhaus levels of airtightness (0.43 ACH).
Product Suitability for Schools
Low VOC — Safe for Occupied Buildings
Passive Purple is water-based and assessed for indoor air emissions — suitable for application in occupied buildings during term time, subject to adequate ventilation.
Passivhaus Certified Performance
Used on multiple school projects achieving Passivhaus certification — the highest independently verified standard for energy performance.
Fast Programme
Spray application at up to 300m²/day minimises works during school holidays and reduces programme risk on education contracts.
Fire Safety Compliant
FRED intumescent coating and Passive Purple X provide fire-rated solutions for school buildings where Class B or Class A fire performance is required.
Works on All Education Substrates
Steel frame, masonry blockwork, concrete soffits, timber roof structures — all common in education building stock and all compatible with Passive Purple.
Waterproofing Solutions
Poseidon provides reliable internal waterproofing for wet rooms and changing facilities. The GOAT provides flexible waterproofing for flat roofs — both common requirements in school buildings.
Recommended Products for Education
| Product | Application | Why for Schools |
|---|---|---|
| Passive Purple Internal (Spray) | VCL and airtight layer — walls, floors, ceilings | Passivhaus certified; low VOC; fast application — proven on school projects |
| Passive Purple Brush | Junctions, penetrations, service entries | BBA certified; fibre-reinforced for complex steelwork and junction details |
| Passive Purple X | Fire-rated external and internal applications | Class B fire rating for schools requiring Approved Document B compliance |
| FRED | Intumescent flame retardant coating | Warrington fire tested; suitable for structural steel, timber and board substrates |
| Poseidon / The GOAT | Wet room & flat roof waterproofing | Poseidon: internal wet rooms & changing facilities (internal only). The GOAT: flat roof waterproofing |
Applicable Frameworks & Standards
- BB101 — Ventilation, thermal comfort and indoor air quality in schools
- BREEAM Education — Airtightness and energy efficiency credits
- Passivhaus / EnerPHit — Achievable on new build and retrofit school projects
- Approved Document B — Fire performance requirements for educational buildings
- UK Building Regulations Part L — New school buildings and extensions
- Department for Education (DfE) Output Specification — Airtightness requirements for DfE-funded school buildings
Planning a School Project?
We have experience on new-build and refurbishment school projects. Our team can advise on the airtightness strategy, fire ratings, and programme from design through to site.
Talk to Us View Case Studies