Cavity Wall Insulation

Cavity wall insulation is a crucial factor in enhancing the energy efficiency of homes. Not only can it significantly reduce heating bills, but it also plays a vital role in minimising carbon footprints. However, not all homes are suitable for this type of insulation. It’s essential to understand whether your property is a good candidate before proceeding with installation. Below, we explore the key factors you should consider, such as wall structure, property age, and existing insulation, to help you determine if your home is suitable for cavity wall insulation.

Understanding Cavity Walls

Firstly, it’s important to identify if your home has cavity walls. Cavity walls consist of two walls separated by a gap or ‘cavity’. Typically, these were built in houses constructed after the 1920s. The outer wall is usually made of brick, and the inner wall may be made of brick or concrete block, with the cavity in between ranging from 50mm to 100mm. You can often tell if your home has cavity walls by looking at the brick pattern. If the bricks are all laid lengthways with even spacing, it’s likely you have cavity walls.

Age of the Property

The age of your property is a significant indicator of whether cavity wall insulation is suitable. Homes built before the 1920s are less likely to have cavity walls and may require different insulation techniques, like internal or external wall insulation. Properties built from the 1920s onwards will generally have cavity walls, making them potential candidates for this type of insulation. However, homes constructed after the 1990s usually already have insulation installed during construction, complying with the building regulations of that time.

Existing Insulation

If your home was built between the 1920s and the 1990s, there’s a chance it may already have some form of cavity wall insulation, but it might not meet current energy efficiency standards. Checking the existing insulation is crucial. You can have a professional surveyor assess your walls with specialised equipment to determine if there is existing insulation and, if so, whether it is adequate. This assessment can also reveal any issues such as dampness or deterioration of previous insulation materials.

Exposure to Wind-Driven Rain

The geographical location of your property can also affect the suitability of cavity wall insulation. Homes exposed to severe wind-driven rain are at higher risk of damp issues if the cavity is filled improperly. The Building Research Establishment (BRE) categorises areas into four zones based on exposure to driving rain. Homes in zones of high exposure might not be suitable for cavity wall insulation unless specific water-resistant materials are used.

Checking for Dampness

Before considering cavity wall insulation, ensure that your home is free from existing damp issues. Insulating walls that already have damp problems can exacerbate the issue, leading to more severe damage. It’s advisable to resolve any damp problems before installing insulation. 

Additionally, ensure that any ventilation points in the walls, such as those around windows and under the floor, are not blocked by the insulation as these play a critical role in preventing condensation and damp.

Professional Assessment

Ultimately, the best way to determine if your home is suitable for cavity wall insulation is through a professional assessment. A certified installer can conduct a thorough evaluation, including checking the wall type, existing insulation, and any potential damp issues. They can also provide advice on the best type of insulation materials for your specific situation and what measures will be necessary to ensure that the installation maximises energy efficiency without causing problems.

Improve Your Home’s Efficiency with Cavity Wall Insulation

Deciding to install cavity wall insulation is a significant step towards improving your home’s energy efficiency. By considering the structure and age of your walls, assessing any existing insulation, and addressing concerns like geographical exposure and dampness, you can make an informed decision about whether this is the right choice for your property. Always consult with a professional to ensure that your home is suitable and that the installation will be performed correctly, providing you with energy savings and increased comfort for years to come.
Should you have professional confirmation that your home does, in fact, have cavity walls that require insulation, then look no further than Online Insulation for your high-quality, competitively priced cavity wall insulation. Simply visit our website to explore our range of insulation options or get in contact with us directly. This can be done by giving us a call on 01509 649065, by emailing us at info@onlineinsulation-sales.com or by chatting to us via our messenger feature and one of our experts will be happy to help you source the best cavity wall insulation for your home’s cavity walls.