The Types, Common Homes, and Removal Process of Cavity Wall Insulation

Cavity wall insulation (CWI) has been widely used in the UK to improve energy efficiency by reducing heat loss through walls. While effective, not all types of insulation are suitable or longstanding, and issues can arise that necessitate removal. In this post, we’ll explore the different types of cavity wall insulation, the types of homes commonly found with this insulation, and the process of safely removing it—specifically through our specialised CavClear extraction service.

Types of Cavity Wall Insulation

Cavity wall insulation comes in various forms, each with its own characteristics:

1. Mineral Wool which is typically made from spun glass or rock fibers. This type of insulation can commonly retain moisture if the cavity is exposed to water, leading to damp issues.
2. Polystyrene Beads are small, lightweight beads made from expanded polystyrene.
3. Urea-Formaldehyde Foam is foam that hardens into a solid mass within the cavity.
4. Polyurethane Foam is a type of plastic foam injected into the cavity.

Homes Commonly Found with Cavity Wall Insulation in the UK

Cavity wall insulation is predominantly found in homes built after the 1920s when cavity wall construction became more widespread. However, it is particularly common in homes built between the 1930s and 1980s. The typical homes that feature cavity wall insulation include post-war semi-detached and detached homes. These homes often have cavity walls designed to be filled with insulation to improve energy efficiency.

Council and social housing are another property that are often fitted with retrofitted with insulation, during the energy efficiency drives of the 1970s and 1980s.

Timber and steel framed homes, although less ideal for cavity wall insulation, have often been inappropriately insulated, leading to significant issues. You can read more about the effect of cavity wall insulation on these properties, here.

The Process of Cavity Wall Insulation Removal

While cavity wall insulation can be beneficial, problems can arise due to poor installation, unsuitable materials, or exposure to moisture. In such cases, extraction is essential to prevent further damage to the property.

At CavClear, we offer a specialised cavity wall insulation extraction service. Here’s how the process works:

1. Initial Survey
2. Preparation and Site Protection
3. Extraction Process
   • Drilling Access Points
   • Specialised Machinary Extraction
   • Inspection
   • Refill brickwork and seal
4. Final Inspection and Report

Cavity wall insulation removal is a delicate process that requires specialised equipment and expertise. Choosing an experienced service provider like CavClear ensures comprehensive removal. We guarantee that all insulation is removed, preventing future damp issues or structural damage. Our process is also designed to be as non-invasive as possible, protecting your property and minimising the time spent on-site. As well as this, we not only remove the insulation but also identify any underlying issues, such as wall tie failure or damp ingress, providing you with a complete solution.

Cavity wall insulation can offer great benefits, but when it goes wrong, it’s crucial to act quickly. Whether due to inappropriate materials, poor installation, or the natural degradation of materials, addressing these issues promptly can save you from significant damage and cost in the long run. CavClear’s specialised extraction service ensures that your home is protected, offering peace of mind and maintaining the structural integrity of your property.

If you suspect your cavity wall insulation is causing issues, contact CavClear today on 0333 220 2463 for an expert assessment and high-quality removal service. Unsure if you have insulation? Book your survey today!