The Significance Of Cavity Wall Insulation

By Author: envio steve
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History

Cavity wall insulation was introduced in Northwest Europe during the 19th Century but its usage didn’t begin to increase until the 1920s. In the UK, widespread installation of cavity wall insulation didn’t take place until the 1970s and it wasn’t until the 1990s that its installation became a compulsory building regulation. Hence, a large proportion of pre-1970s houses have poor insulation.

What is cavity wall insulation?

Cavity wall insulation is a filling placed between the internal and external walls of a property. The porous material used helps to reduce the heat loss through the walls, storing heat within the home for longer.

What materials are used?

There are three different types of cavity wall insulation materials used in the UK:

Blown mineral wool: Most commonly known as rockwool, this material is the most popular and widely used choice for cavity wall ...
... insulation. It consists of mechanically granulated spun glass or rock wool which is treated by water and a binder during the time of manufacture. The material is installed by being blown into the cavity and has a reliable life-expectancy, matching the life of the building. The material does not absorb water and does not allow for any moisture to enter the home.

U.F. Foam - Also known as foam cavity wall insulation nes, Urea Formaldehyde foam can be injected into the cavity through small spaces, moulding itself into a rigid insulate shape. This type of insulation material is ideal for walls with narrow joints or narrow cavities.

E.P.S beads - A rather different means of cavity wall insulation is expanded polystyrene beads (EPS beads). During installation, these beads are combined with an adhesive material then pumped into the wall cavity. This type of insulation is also suitable for narrower cavities.

The process of installation is quick and easy, usually taking around two hours.

What are the benefits of cavity wall insulation?

According to the National Insulation Association, the average home loses more than 40% of its heat through cavity walls. cavity insulation helps to prevent this means of heat escaping, maintaining the temperature within the property for longer. The insulation also aids with maintaining a more even temperature and combats draughts produced by the walls. As heat loss is decreased, the need for energy consumption is decreased, helping property-owners to save on their energy bills.

Indeed, cavity wall insulated homes attain a higher home energy rating and a lower carbon footprint.
Is my home suitable for cavity wall insulation?

A home should be suitable for cavity wall insulation if it fits these requirements:

>> The external walls are unfilled cavity walls

>> The cavity between the walls is at least 50mm wide

>> The brickwork is in good condition

>> The house is more than ten years old

>> The walls are not exposed to driving rain

>> Check if the walls have damp

>> The external walls are easy to access

>> The walls are not affected by damp

Choosing an installer

If you are planning to go ahead with cavity wall insulation, you must check that your chosen installer is properly qualified. The installer should be a member of the National Insulation Association (NIA), the Cavity Insulation Guarantee Agency (CIGA) or the British Board of Agreement (BBA). It is also recommended that you verify the installer has signed up to the code of professional practice and that the installer guarantees the installation for 25 years.

Envio Steve is United States author. Nationwide Energy Services arrange Free Boiler Replacement, Loft & Cavity Wall Insulation and Landlord services. If you are looking for any information on Cavity Wall Insulation NES and Cavity Insulation than please contact us.