What is Internal Wall Insulation?
Internal wall insulation is a method used to enhance the energy efficiency of a building by insulating the interior side of external walls. This technique involves adding insulation material directly to the inside surface of the walls, which can be especially beneficial for older homes and properties without cavity walls. Internal wall insulation helps to reduce heat loss, improve thermal performance, and make the indoor environment more comfortable by creating an insulating barrier between the indoor space and the outside environment.
The insulation material used can vary, including rigid foam boards, thermal plasterboard, or a layer of insulation covered with plaster. These materials are installed directly onto the inside walls, either by fixing them mechanically or using adhesive methods.
Internal wall insulation is particularly suited to buildings where external insulation isn’t feasible due to restrictions such as historical preservation, aesthetic concerns, or planning regulations. It can be installed in both residential and commercial properties, significantly improving energy efficiency and reducing heat loss.
Types of Internal Wall Insulation
There are two main types of internal wall insulation systems:
Dry-lining (Insulated Plasterboard) This involves fixing insulated plasterboard directly to the walls, combining insulation with a decorative finish. It’s an efficient way to insulate, as it can be installed relatively quickly and offers a smooth, ready-to-decorate surface.
Stud Wall Insulation This method involves building a stud wall frame inside the existing wall, filling the gap with insulation material such as mineral wool or rigid foam, and then covering it with plasterboard. While this system provides excellent insulation, it can reduce the floor space in a room due to the thickness of the additional wall.
Benefits of Internal Wall Insulation
Internal wall insulation offers multiple benefits to homeowners and building occupants, including
Enhanced Energy Efficiency One of the most significant advantages of internal wall insulation is improved thermal performance. Insulating the internal walls helps retain heat during colder months and keeps interiors cooler in warmer weather, reducing the overall energy consumption needed for heating and cooling.
Reduced Energy Bills As less heat is lost through the walls, less energy is needed to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. This leads to lower heating and cooling costs, which can result in substantial long-term savings on energy bills.
Improved Comfort Internal wall insulation helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures by preventing cold drafts and eliminating cold spots near external walls. This creates a more comfortable living environment, especially in winter. It can also contribute to a quieter indoor space by providing some soundproofing from external noise.
Moisture and Dampness Control Internal wall insulation can help reduce condensation on cold surfaces, which in turn lowers the risk of mold growth and dampness inside the property. However, it’s crucial to ensure proper ventilation when insulating internally, as insulation can sometimes trap moisture within walls if not installed correctly.
Preservation of External Appearance Internal wall insulation is ideal for buildings where preserving the external appearance is important. This could include historical or listed buildings where altering the façade is not permitted, or properties in conservation areas where external insulation might compromise aesthetics.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact By improving a building’s energy efficiency, internal wall insulation helps reduce the overall carbon footprint of the property. Lower energy consumption means fewer greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to environmental sustainability.
Increased Property Value A well-insulated home is more attractive to potential buyers due to its energy efficiency and lower running costs. Internal wall insulation can increase the value of a property by improving its energy performance rating and making it more desirable in the housing market.
Installation Process of Internal Wall Insulation
The process of installing internal wall insulation typically involves the following steps:
Initial Assessment A professional insulation installer will first assess the property to determine the best insulation approach. They will inspect the walls, check for existing issues such as dampness, and ensure the walls are suitable for insulation.
Preparation of Walls Before the insulation can be applied, any existing issues such as cracks, damp, or structural problems must be addressed. The installer will also prepare the surfaces by cleaning and ensuring they are free from any obstructions.
Installation of Insulation Material Depending on the method chosen (dry-lining or stud wall), the insulation material is either fixed directly to the wall or placed within a stud frame. Rigid insulation boards or plasterboard with insulation backing are common choices.
Sealing and Finishing Once the insulation is installed, the walls are sealed and finished. This involves covering the insulation with plaster or plasterboard and ensuring a smooth finish ready for painting or decorating. Special care is taken to seal any gaps or joints to prevent air leakage.
Post-Installation Inspection After the installation is complete, a final inspection is carried out to ensure the insulation has been correctly installed and to check for any issues such as gaps or poor sealing. The installer may also offer guidance on how to maintain the insulation and ensure proper ventilation.
Suitability and Considerations for Internal Wall Insulation
While internal wall insulation offers many benefits, there are some important factors to consider before proceeding:
Space Reduction Since internal wall insulation involves adding layers to the interior of the walls, it can reduce the room’s usable space. This is particularly noticeable in smaller rooms.
Cost and Disruption Installing internal insulation can be more disruptive compared to external methods, as it requires work inside the home. It may also involve moving furniture and redecorating the affected areas.
Ventilation Proper ventilation is critical to avoid condensation build-up when insulating internally. Poor ventilation can lead to trapped moisture, causing dampness or mold issues over time.
Grants and Financial Support for Internal Wall Insulation
In many regions, governments and local authorities offer grants and incentives to encourage the installation of insulation and improve the energy efficiency of buildings. While the specifics of these schemes vary, they often include financial assistance for internal wall insulation projects.
For example, in the UK:
Energy Company Obligation (ECO) This scheme helps fund energy efficiency improvements, including internal wall insulation, for eligible households. Homeowners can benefit from financial support based on their income and property type.
Local Authority Grants Some local councils offer grants for improving energy efficiency in homes, including internal wall insulation. These grants can vary depending on the area and specific program, so it’s important to check with local authorities.
Before applying for any financial assistance, it’s essential to research available options, ensure eligibility, and engage with certified installers to meet the grant requirements.
Internal wall insulation is a practical solution for improving energy efficiency in homes where other insulation methods are not viable. While there are some considerations in terms of space and cost, the long-term benefits of improved comfort, reduced energy bills, and environmental impact make it an attractive option for many homeowners.
