What Is Cavity Wall Insulation?

When were cavity walls built and why?

Cavity walls were first built in the 1920s in the UK as a way to provide insulation against the cold weather. Before then, walls were typically solid, which led to high levels of heat loss and dampness. Cavity walls have two layers, an inner and outer leaf, with a gap in between.

This gap was originally introduced to prevent dampness from penetrating the wall. Over the years, the gap between the walls was identified as a potential area requiring  insulation, leading to the development of cavity wall insulation.
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When was insulation introduced, and what types are there?

Insulation was first introduced to cavity walls in the 1970s. The two primary types of insulation are mineral fibre and polystyrene bead insulation. Mineral fibre insulation, also known as mineral wool insulation is made from natural materials. It is generally considered a cost-effective option that provides good insulation against heat loss.

Polystyrene bead insulation, better known as eps beads is made from small beads of polystyrene, which are blown into the cavity. This type of insulation is popular due to its durability and resistance to moisture.
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Why should you get cavity wall insulation?

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Insulating your property is vital because it reduces the amount of energy required to heat your home, which reduces your energy bills.

It also helps to reduce your carbon footprint by lowering the amount of energy required to keep your home warm and increases the homes energy efficiency. Insulation also improves the comfort levels within your home, providing a consistent and comfortable temperature.
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How can cavity wall insulation be retrofitted to homes?
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Cavity wall insulation can be retrofitted to most homes with cavity walls. To install the insulation system, holes are drilled into the walls at regular intervals, and the insulating material is blown into the cavity using specialist equipment.

Once installed, the holes are filled with mortar to ensure that the insulation remains in place. It is essential to ensure that the property is suitable for insulation before installation.

This can be determined by a survey of the property, which will assess whether the cavity is suitable for insulation.
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How does cavity wall insulation work to reduce heat loss and lower energy bills?
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Cavity wall insulation works by filling the gap between the inner and outer walls with an insulating material. This material helps to reduce the amount of heat that escapes from the property, keeping the inside warm and comfortable.

By reducing heat loss, less energy is required to maintain a consistent temperature within the home, resulting in lower energy bills. The insulation also helps to regulate the temperature within the property, reducing the need for heating and cooling.
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What are the average savings of having cavity wall insulation?

The amount you can save by installing cavity wall insulation will depend on various factors, such as the size of your home, the type of insulation you choose, and the current level of insulation. However, studies have shown that cavity wall insulation can save up to £690 a year on energy bills.

Over time, the savings can add up, making cavity wall insulation a cost-effective option for many homeowners.
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Pros and cons of cavity wall insulation

Pros:

• Reduced energy bills: Cavity wall insulation helps to reduce the amount of energy required to heat your home, resulting in lower energy bills.
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• Improved comfort: Insulation helps to maintain a consistent temperature within the home, providing a comfortable living environment.
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• Reduced carbon footprint: By reducing the amount of energy required to heat your home, cavity wall insulation helps to reduce your carbon footprint, making it an eco-friendly option.
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• Cost-effective: Although there is an initial cost associated with installing cavity wall insulation, the savings on energy bills over time can make it a cost-effective option.

Cons:

• Unsuitable properties: Not all properties are suitable for cavity wall insulation. Homes with solid walls, for example, cannot be insulated using this method.
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• Dampness: If the insulation is not installed correctly or if the property is unsuitable for insulation, it can lead to dampness within the walls, which can cause damage to the property.
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• Installation issues: Installation of cavity wall insulation must be done correctly by a professional. If not, it can lead to problems such as the insulation settling, which can result in reduced effectiveness.

To avoid the potential drawbacks associated with cavity wall insulation, homeowners should ensure that their property is suitable for insulation before installation.

A professional survey should be carried out to assess the property's suitability and ensure that there are no pre-existing issues such as dampness or structural problems.

During installation, it is essential to use a qualified and experienced installer who follows the correct procedures. It's important to check that the company installing the insulation is a registered installer. For example, if they're registered with the cavity insulation guarantee agency or GDGC, it's a good sign.

The installer should use high-quality materials, and the installation should be carried out in a manner that ensures the insulation does not settle or cause any damage to the property.

It is also important to choose the right type of insulation for your home. Some types of insulation are better suited to specific types of properties, and a professional installer can advise on the best option for your needs.

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