Internal Wall Insulation

Internal wall insulation is an effective solution for improving the energy efficiency of your home. Therefore, by insulating the internal walls, residents can reduce heat loss, save on bills, and enhance the home environment. Below we delve into the importance of internal wall insulation, the types available, benefits, installation methods, and maintenance tips, providing you with everything you need to know about this essential home improvement.

What is Internal Wall Insulation?

Internal wall insulation involves adding insulating material to the inner surfaces of external walls. This method is particularly useful for older buildings with solid walls that lack cavity walls. Internal wall insulation creates a thermal barrier, preventing heat from escaping through the walls and keeping your home warmer during winter and cooler during summer.

IWI Installing Process

Under the ECO4 scheme, the installation of internal wall insulation must adhere to the highest standards to ensure optimal thermal efficiency and long-term durability. All installers participating in the ECO4 scheme must be Trustmark registered and comply with Ofgem’s delivery guidance. At Fairway Energy, we follow a meticulous process to install internal wall insulation in your home, ensuring quality, compliance, and maximum energy savings. Here’s how we do it:

Identify Cold Walls

Identify the cold external walls in your home and prepare the room. This may include removing fixtures or repairing damaged walls.

Insulation Material

Glass Mineral Wool Insulation material is added to the wall inside a newly built XPS bonded to OSB frame for structure.

Sealed with Vapour Wrap

A vapour control layer is used to cover the insulation which prevents moisture build up.

Plasterboard Added

Plasterboard is used to cover the insulation material and serves as the final internal finishing layer, covering the insulation system and providing a smooth surface.

Smooth Plaster Finish

Finally, a smooth plaster finish is applied to the wall ready for paint or wallpaper.

Before Installation

Installing internal wall insulation requires professional installers to ensure optimal performance and compliance with building regulations. Before installing insulation, our team will assess the walls to determine the appropriate amount of insulation required. Similarly, check for any existing insulation that may need to be upgraded or removed and address any structural issues or dampness.

Next, we will clear the wall surfaces of any fixtures, fittings, and debris. Also, we will ensure that the walls are dry and clean. Furthermore, we will repair any cracks or damage to the walls and apply a damp-proof membrane if necessary to prevent moisture penetration.

Benefits of Internal Wall Insulation

1. Energy Efficient and Saves Money

Of course energy efficiency is an important consideration in a modern home. Ultimately, by reducing heat loss through the walls a stable indoor temperature can be better maintained, decreasing the need for constant heating or cooling. Overall, this leads to substantial savings on energy bills, making it a cost-effective investment for homeowners. Furthermore, if you are eligible for the ECO4 grant, you could receive this home energy solution, along with other improvements, completely free. Just get in touch with us today to check your eligibility.

2. Consistent Temperature

Internal wall insulation improves the overall comfort of your home by creating a more consistent indoor temperature. As a result, during the winter, it helps retain heat, ensuring your home stays warm and cozy. Whereas, in the summer, it prevents excessive heat from entering, keeping your home cooler. Overall, this improved thermal regulation enhances the living experience for all occupants.

3. Noise Reduction

Furthermore, internal wall insulation can provide sound insulation too. As a result, this helps to reduce external noise, such as traffic or neighbourhood sounds, creating a quieter and more peaceful home. Therefore, this is particularly beneficial for houses located in busy towns or cities.

4. Moisture Control

Internal wall insulation can also help control moisture levels within your home. This is because, proper insulation, along with ventilation measures, prevents condensation on the walls, reducing the risk of dampness, mould growth, and structural damage. As a result, this contributes to a healthier indoor environment and prolongs the lifespan of your property.

5. Increased Value of Your Home

Many potential buyers look for homes that are well insulated and therefore, this improvement can also increase your home’s value with a better energy efficiency rating. Unquestionably, energy-efficient homes are in high demand, and having proper insulation can make your house more appealing to potential buyers.

Internal Wall Insulation Materials

The Internal Wall Insulation (IWI) System used by Fairway Energy consists of, glass mineral wool insulation batts, used for their thermal and acoustic benefits. It is a breathable insulation material, and is combined with extruded polystyrene (XPS) bonded to oriented strand board (OSB) for structure. This system is specified in the ECO4 scheme delivery guidance set by the regulator Ofgem.

Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) Bonded to Oriented Strand Board (OSB) Frame

Material Breakdown:

1. Glass Mineral Wool (Fiberglass)

Made primarily from silica sand and recycled glass bottles.
The fibres are spun from molten glass and formed into insulation batts.

2. Specialised Binder Technology

A formaldehyde-free, bio-based binder used instead of traditional phenol-formaldehyde resins.
Derived from rapidly renewable materials, reducing the environmental impact.
Provides a soft feel, low odour, and improved indoor air quality.

3. Water-Repellent Treatment

Helps maintain insulation performance and prevents mould growth.
The fibres are treated to be moisture-resistant, reducing the risk of water absorption.

A rigid, closed-cell insulation material that provides excellent thermal performance.
High moisture resistance, making it ideal for reducing thermal bridging and preventing damp issues.

A strong engineered wood panel that provides structural support.
It helps with secure fixings for finishes like plasterboard.

The XPS core acts as a thermal break, preventing heat loss through traditional timber or metal studs.
The OSB strip allows for fixing and adds structural integrity.
The Glass Mineral Wool Batts play a crucial role in thermal, acoustic, and fire performance. It is used in combination with XPS + OSB to enhance the overall insulation effectiveness.

Together, they create an energy-efficient and moisture-resistant insulation system.

Function In The IWI System

Certifications of the IWI System used By Fairway Energy

British Board of Agrément (BBA) Certified, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
BRE Green Guide A+ Rating for sustainability.

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Other Types of Insulation Material

There are other types of internal wall insulation material, but these are not used for IWI on the ECO4 scheme:

1. Insulated Plasterboard

Insulated plasterboard, also known as thermal board, is a popular choice for internal wall insulation. It consists of a layer of insulation material, such as polyurethane foam or polystyrene, bonded to a layer of plasterboard. This type of insulation is easy to install and provides good thermal performance.

2. Rigid Insulation Boards

Rigid insulation boards are made from materials like polystyrene, polyurethane, or phenolic foam. These boards offer high thermal resistance and are suitable for insulating solid walls. They can be fixed directly to the walls and then covered with plasterboard or other finishes.

3. Mineral Wool Insulation

Mineral wool insulation, includes both glass wool (Similar to that used on ECO4) and rock wool, and has been frequently used for insulating walls. This is because it comes in rolls, provides good thermal and acoustic insulation and results in a clean and tidy install. Furthermore, mineral wool is fire-resistant and has excellent moisture control properties.

4. Aerogel Insulation

Aerogel insulation is a high-performance option that offers good thermal resistance. It is made from a gel in which the liquid component is replaced with gas, creating a lightweight and highly insulating material. Aerogel insulation is ideal for spaces with limited thickness for insulation.

5. Cork Insulation

Cork insulation is an eco-friendly option made from the bark of cork oak trees. It provides good thermal and acoustic insulation and is resistant to moisture, mould, and pests. Furthermore, cork insulation is a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.

Maintaining Internal Wall Insulation

Careful maintenance of internal wall insulation ensures longevity. Therefore, here are some tips for maintaining your internal wall insulation:

1. Regularly Inspect the Walls

We advise periodic checks to inspect the walls for any signs of damage, moisture buildup, or pests, so that any issues can be identified promptly to maintain the insulation’s performance.

2. Prevent Moisture

Ensure that the walls are properly ventilated to stop condensation and moisture buildup. This is because moisture can reduce the effectiveness of insulation and lead to mould growth. With ECO4 measures, internal wall insulation is combined with proper insulation such as trickle vents and ensuring airflow from room to room.

3. Avoiding Damage

Avoid drilling or puncturing the insulated walls, as this can compromise the insulation’s effectiveness. However, if you do need to install fixtures or fittings, then take care to avoid damaging the insulation.

Internal Wall Insulation Installed on ECO4 Scheme

Conclusion

Internal wall insulation is a crucial aspect of a home’s energy efficiency. Likewise, it also offers numerous other benefits, including cost savings, and a more consistent temperature in your home. Therefore, by understanding the different types of insulation and the process to install them, you can make an informed decision to optimise your home’s EPC.

In summary, all insulation is a wise choice for any homeowner looking to reduce energy bills, enhance comfort, and contribute to environmental conservation. Therefore, embrace the advantages of internal wall insulation today and enjoy a more energy-efficient and comfortable home year-round.

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