Cavity wall insulation is meant to save energy but when it goes wrong, it can cause major problems.
We’re seeing more and more cases where insulation is either poorly installed, inappropriate for the property, or has degraded over time. The result? Trapped moisture, damp, mould and structural damage that often goes unnoticed until it’s too late.
Common Problems with Cavity Wall Insulation
Some homes, particularly those exposed to wind-driven rain or with porous brickwork, should never have been insulated in the first place. If moisture gets in and can’t escape, it becomes trapped inside the walls and that’s where the problems begin.
The key warning signs include:
- Damp or mould patches inside
- Cold spots on internal walls
- Condensation issues
- Musty smells or poor air quality
- Visible staining, blown render or flaking paint
Over time, these issues not only damage the internal and external finishes of your property, but they can also lead to structural decay, rotting timbers, and even health problems caused by mould spores.
Why This Happens
Insulation materials like mineral wool or polystyrene beads can shift, slump, or become waterlogged. This compromises their thermal efficiency and turns your wall cavity into a moisture trap. In some cases, insulation blocks airflow or clogs weep vents, preventing walls from breathing and allowing water to build up within the structure.
Many homes with retrofit insulation were never properly surveyed before installation — especially those with older or porous brickwork, or exposure to prevailing weather. Without a proper pre-install assessment, insulation may have been added where it simply shouldn’t have been.
What Can Be Done?
Once insulation has failed, leaving it in place often causes more harm. That’s where our survey and removal service comes in. CavClear provides professional cavity wall insulation surveys using thermal imaging and borescope technology to assess the current state of your insulation.
If removal is required, we use specialist equipment to extract the material without causing further damage to your walls. We restore the cavity to a breathable, stable condition, allowing the property to dry out and preventing future damp problems.
We’ll also provide a detailed written report, including photographs and clear recommendations for next steps, whether that’s removal, damp treatment, or additional repairs.
Why It’s Worth Acting Now
Insulation problems don’t fix themselves, they often get worse. The longer the material stays in place, the more damage it can do. Left untreated, it can impact the structural integrity of your property and create an unhealthy indoor environment.
Think your insulation might be causing problems?
Contact CavClear today for an expert survey and honest advice on what to do next.
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