Solid Wall Insulation

A cavity wall consists of an outer brick wall and an inner wall made of brick or concrete Approximately 40% of UK properties are constructed with solid walls, lacking a cavity, leading to as much as 45% of a property’s generated heat escaping through the walls. Fortunately, like cavity walls, ECO funding is available for qualifying solid wall properties.

How to determine if you have solid walls:
Identifying whether a property has solid walls is easiest by noting its construction date. Properties built before 1944 typically feature solid walls. If the property’s age is uncertain, the brick pattern can offer clues. Solid brick walls exhibit an alternating pattern with some bricks laid across the wall, showing the short end.

Options for insulating solid wall properties include Internal Wall Insulation (IWI) and External Wall Insulation (EWI). Both methods involve affixing a layer of insulation material to the wall, either inside or on the exterior. These insulation techniques are applicable to various building types, including system build, stone, cob, and timber frame structures.

Differences between external and internal wall insulation:
Each insulation method has its advantages, making it crucial to select the one most suitable for the property and its occupants.

External Wall Insulation:
Less disruptive than internal methods, external insulation is applied to the property’s outside, eliminating the need to vacate rooms or remove fixtures such as skirting boards, radiators, and cupboards.
After installing the insulation, the installer will apply external render or cladding to enhance the property’s appearance.
External wall insulation reduces outside noise, offers protection from harsh weather, and prevents moisture penetration, which can cause dampness.

Internal Wall Insulation:
Suitable for properties in conservation areas or listed buildings where external modifications are often restricted.
Insulation fitted inside the walls helps the property heat up more quickly.
Ideal for properties undergoing refurbishment.

By insulating solid walls, the property retains warmth by preventing heat loss, which can alleviate condensation issues and lower energy bills.