The origin of cavity wall insulation dates back to the 1970’s, where it was initially introduced for the same reason it’s used today, as a way to improve energy efficiency in homes. The idea was simple: filling the empty space between the inner outer walls of a house (the cavity) with an insulating material to prevent heat loss and save energy. As energy costs began to rise and governments pushed for greater energy efficiency, cavity wall insulation became more widespread, especially in colder climates like the UK.
So now we’ve covered the origin of cavity wall insulation, let’s explore more about it and the issues affecting homes across the UK.
Types of Cavity Wall Insulation
There are several types of cavity wall insulation, each with its own advantages and drawbacks:
- Polystyrene Beads: Small, lightweight beads that are pumped into the cavity to reduce heat loss.
- Foam Insulation: Expanding foam can fill even the smallest gaps, but it can be tricky to install.
- Rock Wool Insulation: Made from natural stone materials, rock wool is fire-resistant and provides soundproofing.
While these materials generally improve a home’s energy efficiency, they also come with potential issues, particularly when moisture is involved.
The Issue with Rock Wool Insulation
Rock wool insulation is one of the most commonly used materials in cavity walls due to its affordability and thermal properties. However, it becomes problematic when exposed to moisture. Unlike other materials that can repel or shed water, rock wool acts like a sponge. Once it gets damp, it loses its insulating properties and holds onto the moisture, creating a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and dampness. This trapped moisture not only causes internal wall damage but can also lead to more serious structural issues over time. You can read more about the types of insulation and associated issues in another of our blog posts, here.
Cavity Wall Insulation in the UK: The Numbers
Cavity wall insulation is a common feature in homes across the UK, particularly in properties built after the 1920s. According to recent estimates, approximately 15 million homes in the UK have had cavity wall insulation installed. However, it is believed that over 1 million of these homes may now require cavity wall insulation removal or extraction due to damp-related issues, with this number continuously growing due to the common risk of damp and moisture.
Damp problems usually stem from poorly installed insulation, inappropriate materials for the property’s location (e.g., homes in wetter climates like the UK being fitted with rock wool), or external factors like faulty brickwork and weather damage. Over time, water can seep into the cavity, saturating the insulation, which reduces its effectiveness and causes internal dampness.
The Problem of Damp in Cavity Wall Insulation
When cavity wall insulation becomes damp, it not only loses its insulating qualities but can also cause serious damage to the property. Damp walls are often the first sign that insulation has become waterlogged. Homeowners may notice:
- Peeling wallpaper or paint.
- Black mold forming on the walls.
- Cold spots within rooms.
- A musty smell lingering in the house.
These are all signs that the insulation has absorbed moisture and is no longer effective, often exacerbating the very problems it was installed to solve, such as increased energy costs and heat loss.
CavClear Cavity Wall Insulation Removal Specialists
At Cavclear, we specialise in the removal of cavity wall insulation across the country. If you’re experiencing issues with damp or suspect that your cavity wall insulation may be to blame, our expert team is here to help. We offer comprehensive surveys to uncover the root cause of damp in your home, whether that be defected cavity wall insulation.
Our damp surveys can pinpoint whether your insulation needs removal, all of which is covered in our extensive survey report. Depending on the outcome of your survey, our expert team specialise in safe and 100% effective cavity wall insulation extraction, leaving your home expert of moisture problems. Don’t let damp issues worsen – contact CavClear for professional insulation removal and restore your home’s warmth and comfort, here. Let us help you keep your home dry, healthy, and energy-efficient.
Recent Comments