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External wall insulation
(EWI)
In an era when environmental sustainability is paramount, finding innovative solutions to reduce energy consumption and combat climate change is of utmost importance. One such solution is the implementation of external wall insulation (EWI) systems, which not only enhance the energy efficiency of buildings but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable future. Under the Eco 4 Initiative, a groundbreaking program, free external wall insulation is being provided to homeowners, offering a cost-effective solution to reduce energy waste and decrease carbon footprints.
The Importance of External Wall Insulation
External wall insulation is a technique used to thermally upgrade existing buildings, preventing heat loss through the walls and significantly reducing energy consumption. By applying insulation material to the external walls of a property, the system acts as a protective layer, keeping the heat inside during colder months and preventing excessive heat gain during the summer. This approach not only enhances comfort but also leads to substantial energy savings and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, making it a crucial strategy in the fight against climate change.
Under the Eco 4 program, homeowners are provided with free external wall insulation, enabling them to enhance the energy efficiency of their homes without incurring the substantial costs typically associated with such upgrades.
The Benefits of Free External Wall Insulation
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Energy Efficiency: By installing external wall insulation, homeowners can significantly reduce heat loss through the walls, leading to lower energy consumption and subsequently reducing utility bills. The enhanced energy efficiency ensures a more comfortable living environment and a reduced reliance on heating and cooling systems.
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Carbon Footprint Reduction: Buildings are responsible for a considerable portion of greenhouse gas emissions. By improving insulation and reducing energy demand, free external wall insulation plays a crucial role in lowering carbon footprints, helping combat climate change, and contributing to a greener future.
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Property Value Appreciation: Energy-efficient homes are increasingly sought after in the real estate market. By upgrading their properties with free external wall insulation, homeowners can enhance their property value, making it more attractive to potential buyers and tenants.
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Enhanced Comfort and Condensation Control: External wall insulation not only helps retain heat during colder months but also acts as a barrier against external elements such as noise, dampness, and condensation. This contributes to improved living conditions, health benefits, and overall comfort.
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Reduced Fuel Poverty: Energy-efficient upgrades, including external wall insulation, can help alleviate fuel poverty, a condition where households struggle to afford adequate heating and energy. By reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills, homeowners can enjoy warmer homes without financial strain.
The installation process
Step 1 – A survey is conducted to assess the suitability of the property.
An approved surveyor will visit the property and take measurements of the outside walls to determine how much insulation is required. Some properties (e.g. those with cavity walls) may not be suitable for external wall insulation. The survey will also highlight what remedial work needs to take place. Fixtures and fittings that are currently on the external walls of the house will need removing or extending for installation. This can include: gas flue pipes, alarm systems, outdoor lights, satellite dishes and down pipes. The survey will assess what preparations need to be made before any work can take place.
Step 2 – Scaffolding is erected
Most properties require a scaffold to be erected for external wall insulation to be applied. This gives the installer access to fit insulation to the walls and also take down or extend fixtures and fixings. The scaffold will remain in place during the whole installation and will only be removed once the topcoat has dried and the system has been signed off by the installer.
Step 3 – Any fixtures and fixings that need removing or extending are dealt with
This work has to be done by the relevant tradesperson. So, for example, if the gas flue pipe needs extending a gas engineer will need to carry out the work. Likewise, a satellite dish will have to be removed by the original installer, for example, Sky. Your installer can arrange all of this work for you so you don’t need to worry. If you would prefer, you can arrange for the work to be carried out by different tradespeople yourself.
Step 4 – Window protection film is fitted
This is fitted to all windows and any glass doors to protect the glass during installation.
Step 5 – The insulation boards are prepared and fitted
The boards are cut to the necessary size, and adhesive is applied. They are then placed on the walls in a pattern that looks a bit like brick work.
Step 6 – The insulation boards are mechanically fixed to the wall to secure them further
Once they have been stuck with adhesive they are then drilled into place. Self-tapping screws are usually specified.
Step 7 – A meshcoat is applied
The meshcoat is a three-layer system that adds strength to the insulation. A polymer-modified base coat is applied, a glass fibre reinforcing mesh is fixed on to this base coat and a second coat of polymer-modified render is applied over the top. The structure of the polymer-modified coating is comparable to a lot of little threads or shards, which means it is very flexible and extremely strong. The whole meshcoat protects and strengthens the insulation boards.
Step 8 – Once the meshcoat is dry, a primer (top coat) is applied
More commonly this is a grained-textured silicone top coat. This is the final layer of the system and gives a decorative finish.
Step 9 – Corners and edges of the system are protected with reinforced beading
Beading is used to stop EWI from touching other material that can affect the performance of the insulation, and it helps to ensure clean, neat edges around window and door openings.
Step 10 – Fixtures and fittings are reinstated and protective sheeting is removed
Satellite dishes, lights and alarm systems are placed back on to the outer walls, and all protective sheeting and film is now removed.
Step 11 – Scaffolding is taken down
Scaffolding is taken down and the installation is complete, enabling you to enjoy a warmer home with a brand new look.
Before Insulation
After Insulation
As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, initiatives like the Eco 4 Initiative, offering free external wall insulation, play a vital role in promoting sustainable energy practices and reducing carbon footprints. This innovative program enables homeowners to enhance the energy efficiency of their properties, providing numerous benefits such as lower utility bills, increased property value, improved comfort, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. By embracing free external wall insulation, we take a significant step toward a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.
If you have any questions or need advice regarding External Wall Insulation for your home