How long does cavity wall insulation last?

Cavity wall insulation is a vital element in reducing heat loss in a building. When installed correctly, the insulation can last for the lifetime of the building. However, several factors can impact its lifespan, and it may need to be replaced over time. This article will explore the key factors that affect the lifespan of cavity wall insulation, and what to do if issues arise.

Does Cavity Wall Insulation expire?

While insulation doesn't expire, the lifespan of cavity wall insulation depends on various factors, including the quality of installation and insulation material, exposure to moisture, damage, and any gaps in the insulation. While insulation can last for the lifetime of the building, it is subject to wear and tear, which can result in a reduced lifespan.

What Can Affect the Lifespan of Cavity Wall Insulation?

Poor Installation

One of the main factors that affect the lifespan of cavity wall insulation is poor installation. The insulation should be installed by professionals, using high-quality materials and equipment.

Poor installation practices can cause damage to the building's walls or insulation, leading to issues such as damp, mold, and structural damage, which can reduce the lifespan of the insulation.

Damage

The lifespan of insulation can also be impacted by physical damage.

Damage to the walls, such as flooding, subsidence, or impact damage, can damage the insulation and reduce its effectiveness. Similarly, pests and rodents can damage the insulation, shortening its lifespan.

Moisture

Moisture can cause problems for cavity wall insulation. When moisture gets into the insulation, it can lead to saturation, mold, and reduced insulation properties. This can also result in health hazards and further decrease the lifespan of the insulation.

Gaps

Gaps in the insulation can create areas of the building that are not insulated, leading to heat loss and other problems.

This can cause increasing in your heating bills and with the increases in energy bills, this can become an expensive problem.

Water Ingress

Water ingress is a common issue with cavity wall insulation, leading to a host of problems. When water penetrates the insulation, it causes saturation, leading to reduced insulation properties and mold formation. Water ingress can significantly shorten the lifespan of the insulation.

How to Fix the Above Issues

It is best to have any issues with the insulation inspected by a professional. Inspectors can identify problems with the insulation and recommend the best course of action.

If the insulation has failed or degraded, the insulation may need replacing.

This process is complex and requires the insulation to be extracted from the walls. Once the insulation has been removed, it can be replaced with new, high-quality insulation such as polystyrene beads, which can provide better performance and a longer lifespan.

It is essential to note that it is not possible to top up existing cavity wall insulation. New insulation may not be compatible with the old insulation, causing issues with insulation properties and potentially damaging the walls of the building. If you want to improve the insulation properties of your building, it is best to replace the existing insulation.