Internal wall insulation is an effective solution for improving the energy efficiency of your home. Therefore, by insulating the internal walls, homeowners can reduce heat loss, save on bills, and enhance the home environment. Below we delve into the importance of internal wall insulation, the types available, benefits, installation methods, and maintenance tips, providing you with everything you need to know about this essential home improvement.
Internal wall insulation involves adding insulating material to the inner surfaces of external walls. This method is particularly useful for older buildings with solid walls that lack cavity walls. Internal wall insulation creates a thermal barrier, preventing heat from escaping through the walls and keeping your home warmer during winter and cooler during summer.
Of course energy efficiency is an important consideration in a modern home. Ultimately, by reducing heat loss through the walls a stable indoor temperature can be better maintained, decreasing the need for constant heating or cooling. Overall, this leads to substantial savings on energy bills, making it a cost-effective investment for homeowners. Furthermore, if you are eligible for the ECO4 grant, you could receive this home energy solution, along with other improvements, completely free. Just get in touch with us today to check your eligibility.
Internal wall insulation improves the overall comfort of your home by creating a more consistent indoor temperature. As a result, during the winter, it helps retain heat, ensuring your home stays warm and cozy. Whereas, in the summer, it prevents excessive heat from entering, keeping your home cooler. Overall, this improved thermal regulation enhances the living experience for all occupants.
Furthermore, internal wall insulation can provide sound insulation too. As a result, this helps to reduce external noise, such as traffic or neighbourhood sounds, creating a quieter and more peaceful home. Therefore, this is particularly beneficial for houses located in busy towns or cities.
Internal wall insulation can also help control moisture levels within your home. This is because, proper insulation prevents condensation on the walls, reducing the risk of dampness, mould growth, and structural damage. As a result, this contributes to a healthier indoor environment and prolongs the lifespan of your property.
Many potential buyers look for homes that are well insulated and therefore, this improvement can also increase your home’s value with a better energy efficiency rating. Unquestionably, energy-efficient homes are in high demand, and having proper insulation can make your house more appealing to potential buyers.
There are different types of internal wall insulation and each type has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Insulated plasterboard, also known as thermal board, is a popular choice for internal wall insulation. It consists of a layer of insulation material, such as polyurethane foam or polystyrene, bonded to a layer of plasterboard. This type of insulation is easy to install and provides good thermal performance.
Rigid insulation boards are made from materials like polystyrene, polyurethane, or phenolic foam. These boards offer high thermal resistance and are suitable for insulating solid walls. They can be fixed directly to the walls and then covered with plasterboard or other finishes.
Mineral wool insulation, including glass wool and rock wool, is another effective option for internal wall insulation and one that our installers frequently use. This is because it comes in rolls, provides excellent thermal and acoustic insulation and results in a clean and tidy install. Furthermore, mineral wool is fire-resistant and has excellent moisture control properties.
Aerogel insulation is a high-performance option that offers good thermal resistance. It is made from a gel in which the liquid component is replaced with gas, creating a lightweight and highly insulating material. Aerogel insulation is ideal for spaces with limited thickness for insulation.
Cork insulation is an eco-friendly option made from the bark of cork oak trees. It provides good thermal and acoustic insulation and is resistant to moisture, mould, and pests. Furthermore, cork insulation is a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
Installing internal wall insulation requires professional installers to ensure optimal performance and compliance with building regulations. Here are general steps to install internal wall insulation:
Before installing insulation, our team will assess the walls to determine the appropriate type and amount of insulation required. Similarly, check for any existing insulation that may need to be upgraded or removed and address any structural issues or dampness.
Next, we will clear the wall surfaces of any fixtures, fittings, and debris. Also, we will ensure that the walls are dry and clean. Furthermore, we will repair any cracks or damage to the walls and apply a damp-proof membrane if necessary to prevent moisture penetration.
Insulated Plasterboard
1. The insulated plasterboard would be cut to fit the wall dimensions.
2. Adhesive would be applied to the back of the plasterboard and pressed against the wall.
3. Fixings would be used to secure the plasterboard in place.
4. The joints would be sealed between the boards with tape and plaster.
Rigid Insulation Boards
1. The rigid insulation boards would be cut to fit the wall dimensions.
2. Adhesive would be applied to the back of the boards and pressed against the wall.
3. Fixings would be used to secure the boards in place.
4. The boards would be covered with plasterboard or another finish.
Mineral Wool Insulation (our preferred type)
1. A framework of battens will be installed on the wall to hold the mineral wool insulation.
2. The mineral wool batts will be cut to fit between the battens.
3. The batts will be placed between the battens, ensuring they fit snugly.
4. The insulation will be covered with a vapour barrier and plasterboard.
Aerogel Insulation
1. Aerogel insulation would be cut to fit the wall dimensions.
2. Adhesive would be applied to the back of the insulation and pressed against the wall.
3. Fixings would be used to secure the insulation in place.
4. The insulation would be covered with plasterboard or another finish.
Cork Insulation
1. The cork insulation would be cut to fit the wall dimensions.
2. Adhesive would be applied to the back of the cork panels and pressed against the wall.
3. Fixings would be used to secure the panels in place.
4. The joints would be sealed between the panels with tape and plaster.
After installation, we will ensure that it is properly sealed and covers all intended areas. Furthermore, our team will check for any gaps or areas that may require additional insulation. Lastly, we will replace any removed fixtures and fittings and apply a suitable finish to the walls.
Careful maintenance of internal wall insulation ensures longevity. Therefore, here are some tips for maintaining your internal wall insulation:
We advise periodic checks to inspect the walls for any signs of damage, moisture buildup, or pests, so that any issues can be identified promptly to maintain the insulation’s performance.
Ensure that the walls are properly ventilated to stop condensation and moisture buildup. This is because moisture can reduce the effectiveness of insulation and lead to mould growth.
Avoid drilling or puncturing the insulated walls, as this can compromise the insulation’s effectiveness. However, if you do need to install fixtures or fittings, then take care to avoid damaging the insulation.
Internal wall insulation is a crucial aspect of a home’s energy efficiency. Likewise, it also offers numerous other benefits, including cost savings, and a more consistent temperature in your home. Therefore, by understanding the different types of insulation and the process to install them, you can make an informed decision to optimise your home’s EPC.
In summary, all insulation is a wise choice for any homeowner looking to reduce energy bills, enhance comfort, and contribute to environmental conservation. Therefore, embrace the advantages of internal wall insulation today and enjoy a more energy-efficient and comfortable home year-round.
