How Does Cavity Wall Insulation Work?
This is part of our complete overview of cavity wall insulation.
Cavity wall insulation is a key aspect of modern home energy efficiency. Understanding how it works is essential for homeowners looking to reduce energy costs and enhance the comfort of their living spaces. In this article, we’ll discuss the physics and practicalities of cavity wall insulation, explaining its composition, installation process and the role it plays in maintaining a home’s temperature.
What Is Cavity Wall Insulation?
Homes built after the 1930s in the UK typically feature cavity walls, consisting of two layers with a gap of about 50 mm between the layers. Cavity wall insulation involves filling this gap with materials that prevent heat transfer. The insulation is usually made from materials like polystyrene beads, known for their effective thermal properties. The process enhances a building’s thermal efficiency, reducing the amount of heat that escapes through the walls.
How Does Cavity Wall Insulation Work?
The physics behind cavity wall insulation lies in its ability to stop heat transfer. Heat loss in buildings occurs mainly through walls, especially if they aren’t insulated. By filling the cavities with insulating materials, the walls become more resistant to heat flow. This insulation ensures that heat stays inside during colder months and outside during warmer periods, maintaining a more consistent and comfortable indoor temperature.
The Installation Process
The installation of cavity wall insulation typically involves drilling small holes in the external walls of a house. These holes are used to inject the insulation material, like polystyrene beads, into the cavities. Polystyrene beads are preferred due to their efficiency in keeping the heat in and not absorbing moisture. They are also easier to install, requiring fewer holes and less structural alteration. Once the insulation is in place, the holes are refilled, often leaving no visible signs of the work.
Lifespan and Effectiveness
Cavity wall insulation is not only effective in reducing energy bills but also has a long lifespan. Most installations come with a guarantee of around 25 years, ensuring that the benefits of the insulation are long-term. This extended period of effectiveness makes it a wise investment for homeowners, contributing to significant energy savings and improved comfort for many years.
Conclusion
Understanding how cavity wall insulation works is vital for anyone looking to enhance their home’s energy efficiency. This combination of quality materials, strategic installation, and the physics of heat transfer make cavity wall insulation a highly effective method for maintaining ideal temperatures in a home, while also contributing to reduced energy consumption and costs.
Where Can I Go for Cavity Wall Insulation?
With over three decades of expertise in energy efficiency, MPC Energy Ltd stands as a top-rated installer of home energy upgrades across the UK. Our skilled teams specialise in insulation, heating, and renewable solutions, utilising premium products from leading manufacturers. We're committed to enhancing overall home efficiency, delivering top-notch workmanship and unparalleled customer service.
Having completed numerous installations nationwide, we continue to expand, providing retrofit assessments and implementing energy-efficient measures under the Energy Company Obligation scheme, catering to both government-supported and self-financed customers. Based in Clydebank, West Dunbartonshire, our reach extends across Scotland with teams in various locations.
For more information about our services, get in touch with us via our website or call to speak to one of our energy consultants at +44 141 951 7887.
