Cavity wall insulation can be installed in a matter of hours. With the help of a Government grant, it’s a low-cost, easy way to reduce your energy costs, make your home more comfortable, and protect the environment from global warming. A properly conducted survey can reduce the chance of problems.
Can cavity wall insulation cause dampness?
Problems can occur if the property is located in an area where rainwater continues to come into direct contact with the brickwork. The surveyor will assess the location and recommend an alternative product or even a recommendation not to have cavity wall insulation installed.
Damp spots may form inside the property if the cavity is filled with rubble or has any other ‘bridges’. Cold-bridging is the term for these damp spots. The internal walls will be colder in these areas. During the survey, a small inspection hole is made in each wall to check for rubble and other obstructions. Poorly maintained brickwork, guttering or drainpipes can also cause problems. However, the surveyor will inspect and recommend repairs before any work is done.
Before a cavity wall insulation survey, it is essential to check if there is any dampness. Poor ventilation, excess water vapour and other factors can lead to condensation on the internal walls. Cavity wall insulation can reduce condensation or eliminate it.
Is it possible to damage brickwork by installing cavity wall insulation?
Cavity wall insulation will not cause brickwork damage in the majority of cases. You will need to drill holes that are 20p each between the cement T-joints. Although drilling can remove small chips from brick corners, these chips will disappear once the holes have been refilled with colour-matched cement.
It is rare for bricks to have perfect corners, so it can be difficult to tell when the work has been completed. It may be easier to see if the bricks are perfectly square, with the cement gaps being less than 10mm. If cavity wall insulation will affect the appearance of your property, your surveyor can advise you.
What happens if my property has been rendered?
Only two things could cause serious problems: loose render and poor condition. However, the surveyor will ensure it is in good shape. The holes will be approximately the same size as a 20p piece. Once the insulation has been installed, the cement will be filled in. The cement will be smoothed if the render has been painted.
Cavity wall installers are not trained to paint. The paint may have weathered, and they may need to redo the entire job. Installers will insert small stones that have fallen from the walls into the colour-matched cement if the property is pebble-dashed.
Does cavity wall insulation create ventilation problems?
Cavity wall insulation can reduce the natural airflow to the property. It may be necessary to install a vent if you have appliances that require a lot of oxygen, such as an open fireplace. If a vent is necessary, the surveyor will inform you.
Are there any safeguards against things going wrong?
Energy Link makes sure that the cavity wall installers have been registered with CIGA, an independent organisation. A guarantee for 25 years will be given after the installation. You should contact the original installer if you have any questions. CIGA will appoint a contractor to take over the cost if that is impossible.