External Wall Insulation
External wall insulation refers to a layer of insulation that’s fixed to the outside of an existing wall. This layer will be finished either with a coat of render or with an alternative cladding material to protect it from the elements.
This is now a common method of insulating walls used by those with solid walls, where cavity wall insulation is impossible. That said there are some other situations where external wall insulation make sense.
External wall insulation is generally regarded as the most efficient form of wall insulation because the insulation is continuous without interruptions from internal walls etc. so there’s less risk of thermal bridging, cold spots and mould.
It should also provide better airtightness. When compared to internal drylining, there’s also no loss of floor space to worry about and relatively little disruption. Also, it has the added benefit of making out dated buildings look modern and fresh.
Key benefits include
It reduces heat loss and energy bills
Fewer draughts and increased the sense of comfort
It does not disrupt the house while being installed
This type of insulation does not reduce internal floor area
It allows walls to contribute to thermal mass
(the ‘tea cosy’ effect)
It improves not only weatherproofing
but sound resistance too