Old homes have an undeniable charm, but they aren’t always the most thermally efficient, especially when they have single brick walls. Thankfully, you can make your old home much warmer and cosier through proper insulation. Here, we will explore the benefits and methods of insulating these walls using external wall insulation (EWI).

Why Insulate Single Brick Walls?

Single brick walls are notorious for poor insulation. They allow heat to escape easily, leading to higher energy bills and less comfort. Insulating these walls can provide numerous benefits:

  1. Improved Energy Efficiency: Insulation helps retain heat, reducing the need for constant heating.
  2. Enhanced Comfort: A well-insulated home stays warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
  3. Reduced Energy Bills: Less energy usage translates to lower heating costs.
  4. Increased Property Value: Energy-efficient homes are more attractive to buyers.

There are several methods to insulate single brick walls, but EWI is one of the most effective. Here’s how it works:

External Wall Insulation (EWI)

External wall insulation involves applying an insulating layer to the exterior walls of your house. This layer is then covered with a protective render or cladding. It’s a popular choice for old houses with single brick walls.

Benefits of EWI

  1. Thermal Performance: EWI significantly improves the thermal performance of your home.
  2. Protection: It protects the exterior walls from weather damage.
  3. Aesthetic Appeal: EWI can enhance the appearance of your home with various finishes available.

Installation Process

Preparation

Before installing EWI, the walls must be clean and free from damage. Any cracks or holes should be repaired.

Insulation Boards

Insulation boards are fixed to the exterior walls using adhesive and mechanical fixings. The thickness of the boards can vary depending on the desired level of insulation.

Reinforcement

A base coat is applied over the insulation boards, followed by a reinforcement mesh to ensure stability and prevent cracking.

Finishing Coat

Finally, a finishing coat is applied. This can be a render or cladding, available in various textures and colours to suit your aesthetic preferences.

Challenges and Considerations

Planning Permission

In some areas, installing EWI may require planning permission, especially if your home is in a conservation area or listed building.

Cost

The cost of EWI can be high, but the long-term energy savings and increased property value often justify the investment.

Professional Installation

EWI must be installed by professionals to ensure effectiveness and longevity. Poor installation can lead to problems such as dampness and reduced insulation performance.

 

Insulating single brick walls in old houses with EWI can drastically enhance thermal efficiency, reduce energy bills, and improve comfort. While there are challenges to consider, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. By choosing the right insulation method and ensuring professional installation, you can transform your old house into an energy-efficient home.

If you would like to install external wall insulation on your property, please get in touch.