Cavity wall insulation has come under fire in the past due to some homes being fitted with products that were unsuitable or the installation not being properly surveyed. However, new products such as bead insulation and the insulation assurance register have changed the problems that occurred years ago, making it a positive measure to help save heat in your home.
Cavity wall insulation works by filling the gap between external and internal walls with an insulating material. This helps to keep heat in your home, making it more energy-efficient and reducing your heating bills.
There are different types of cavity wall insulation available on the market, so it’s important to choose one that is suitable for your home. Bead insulation is a popular choice as it is easy to install and can be used in both new-build and existing properties.
If you’re thinking of having cavity wall insulation installed, make sure you use a reputable company that is registered with the Insulation Assurance Scheme. This will give you peace of mind that the work will be carried out to a high standard and your home will be properly protected against heat loss.
What is cavity bead insulation?
Cavity bead insulation is a type of insulation that is used to fill the gap between external and internal walls. It works by trapping heat in your home, making it more energy-efficient and reducing your heating bills.
Bead insulation is made from small beads of polystyrene or glass that are blown into the cavity using a special machine. The beads expand and fit snugly against the walls, creating an effective barrier against heat loss.
Bead insulation is suitable for both new-build and existing properties. It is easy to install and can be used in Cavities that are hard to reach, such as those behind cladding.
Will new technologies such cavity beads cause damp in my home?
No, cavity bead insulation will not cause damp in your home. The beads are made from materials that are resistant to moisture and they expand to fit snugly against the walls, creating a barrier against heat loss. One of history’s main damp problems was cause by patches in the wall where insulation did failed creating a void.
The beads work together to prevent this happening but also allow water to drain easily through the material.
How will moisture drain through my cavities with insulation?
There are special weep holes that are installed in the Cavity wall insulation to allow moisture to drain away. These weep holes are usually located at the base of the Cavity, near the damp-proof course.
Can I have Cavity wall insulation if my home is listed?
Yes, you can have Cavity wall insulation fitted to a listed property, as long as you get permission from your local planning authority first. Cavity wall insulation can help to improve the energy efficiency of your home without affecting its appearance.
Read this article for more information on what homes are suitable for cavity wall insulation
Can I still get a grant for CWI?
Government backed funding has changed a lot since the introduction of the Energy Company Obligation Scheme (ECO). Now in it’s 4th iteration, the scheme will now align it’s self with the countries plan to lower it’s carbon footprint.
While cavity insulation is still available on the scheme, assessment to qualify will now be stricter and the type of energy saving measures installed be based on the properties EPC. So if your property falls into the E bracket, you may qualify for multiple installation measures that include Air Source Heat pumps and Solar PV technology.