If you’re a homeowner looking for a cost-effective way to reduce your energy bills and increase the comfort of your home, cavity wall insulation is an investment worth considering.
Unlike traditional insulation methods, cavity wall insulation involves filling the gap between your home’s interior and exterior walls, creating a barrier that prevents heat from escaping. Not only does this help keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, but it can also significantly reduce your energy consumption and lower your carbon footprint.
In fact, according to recent studies, cavity wall insulation can save homeowners up to 25% on their heating bills, making it a smart financial investment in the long run. So, whether you’re looking to improve the energy efficiency of your home or simply want to make it more comfortable, cavity wall insulation is an option you won’t want to overlook.
What is Cavity Wall Insulation?
Cavity wall insulation is a type of insulation that is installed in the gap between the interior and exterior walls of a building. This gap is known as the cavity, and it is typically around 50mm-100mm wide. Cavity wall insulation involves filling this gap with an insulating material, which creates a barrier that prevents heat from escaping through the walls.
There are two types of insulation for cavity walls: blown and injected. Blown insulation involves blowing insulation material, such as mineral wool or polystyrene beads, into the cavity using special equipment. Injected insulation involves drilling holes into the walls and injecting the insulation material into the cavity using a special pump. Both methods are effective and can be used in most types of buildings.
Cavity wall insulation is a popular choice for homeowners because it is a cost-effective way to reduce energy bills and improve the comfort of a home.
Benefits of Cavity Wall Insulation
There are many benefits to cavity wall insulation, including:
1. Reduced Energy Bills
Cavity wall insulation can significantly reduce the amount of heat that escapes through the walls of a home. This means that less energy is required to heat the home, which can result in lower energy bills.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, cavity wall insulation can save homeowners from £180-£690 per year on their heating bills. Over the lifetime of the insulation (which is typically around 25 years), this can add up to significant savings.
2. Increased Comfort
Cavity wall insulation can also improve the comfort of a home by reducing drafts and cold spots. It can help to keep the home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, which can make it a more pleasant place to live.
3. Reduced Carbon Footprint
By reducing the amount of energy required to heat a home, cavity wall insulation can also help to reduce the carbon footprint of a household. This can be a great way to make a positive impact on the environment.
4. Increased Property Value
Cavity wall insulation is a home improvement that can increase the value of a property. Many homebuyers are looking for energy-efficient homes, and cavity wall insulation can be a selling point.
The Cost of Cavity Wall Insulation
The cost can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of the property, the type of material used, and the installation method.
On average, the cost is around £900-£1200 for a semi-detached house. However, this cost can be significantly higher or lower depending on the factors mentioned above.
It’s worth noting that this is a long-term investment that can pay off in the form of reduced energy bills and increased property value. While the upfront cost may seem high, it is important to consider the long-term benefits.
How to Know if Your Home Needs Cavity Wall Insulation
Not all homes are suitable for cavity wall insulation. Some older properties may not have a cavity, while others may have a cavity that is too narrow to be filled.
To find out if your home is suitable for cavity wall insulation, you can contact a professional insulation company. They will be able to carry out a survey of your property and advise you on the best insulation options based on your specific needs.
It’s also worth noting that if your home was built after the 1990s, it is likely to already have cavity wall insulation installed.
The Installation Process of Cavity Wall Insulation
Installing insulation in the cavities of your walls isn’t generally a job that you can do yourself. It requires specialist equipment and skills to do it correctly. The installation process of cavity wall insulation typically involves the following steps:
- A professional insulation company will carry out a survey of your property to determine if it is suitable for cavity wall insulation.
- If your property is suitable, the insulation company will schedule an installation date.
- On the day of installation, the insulation company will drill holes into the walls and inject or blow the insulation material into the cavity.
- Once the insulation is installed, the holes will be filled and made good.
- The installation process typically takes around half a day to complete.
It is important to choose a reputable insulation company to carry out the installation to ensure that it is done correctly. Dyson Energy Services, established in 1982, is one of the UK’s leading companies providing energy-saving solutions to residential homes.
image source dysonenergyservices.co.uk
How to Choose the Right Insulation Material
When choosing an insulation material for cavity wall insulation, there are a few factors to consider, including:
- The thermal conductivity of the material (i.e. how well it traps heat)
- The environmental impact of the material
- The cost of the material
Some common insulation materials used for cavity wall insulation include mineral wool, polystyrene beads, and foam. Each material has its own pros and cons, and it is important to choose the right material for your specific needs.
It’s also worth noting that some insulation materials may be more suitable for certain types of properties. For example, foam insulation may be more suitable for properties that are located in areas with high levels of wind or rain.
Maintenance and Upkeep of Cavity Wall Insulation
Cavity wall insulation requires very little maintenance once it has been installed. However, it is important to check it periodically to ensure that it is still in good condition.
If you notice any signs of dampness or mould on the walls, this could be a sign that there is a problem with the insulation. In this case, it is important to contact a professional insulation company to carry out an inspection.
Potential Savings on Energy Bills with Cavity Wall Insulation
As mentioned earlier, cavity wall insulation can save homeowners up to 25% on their heating bills. This can add up to significant savings over the lifetime of the insulation.
For example, if you currently spend £1,000 per year on heating, cavity wall insulation could save you up to £250 per year. Over the lifetime of the insulation (which is typically around 25 years), this could add up to savings of £6,250.
Insulation for Cavity Walls – Conclusion
Cavity wall insulation is a cost-effective way to reduce energy bills, increase the comfort of your home, and reduce your carbon footprint. While the upfront cost may seem high, the long-term benefits make it a smart financial investment for homeowners.
If you’re interested in cavity wall insulation, it’s important to choose a reputable company to carry out the installation and to choose the right material for your specific needs. With the right insulation in place, you can enjoy a more comfortable and energy-efficient home for years to come.
