Cavity Wall Insulation

Choose a clean, quick and reasonably inexpensive way to cut down on fuel costs.

The good news is that the Government has made funding available to help people keep their homes both cosy and energy efficient. Learn more about Green Grants.

Find out about other ways to keep the heat locked in, such as Loft Insulation, Water Tank Insulation & more. Also see our videos on How to Insulate your Home & How to Save Energy in your Home.

What you Need to Know

Cavity Wall Insulation involves injecting an insulation material into the void between the inner and outer layer of brickwork to form an effective barrier that guards against heat loss. It will also keep your home at a constant temperature, regardless of weather mood swings. This has a knock on effect for your central heating because it doesn't have to work so hard to maintain an even temperature.

Currently, you can choose from three types of material. The choice will depend on your home - if in doubt call on a professional to tell you what's best.

Urea Formaldehyde (UF) Foam

UF foam is a water-based material that is directly injected into the brickwork. By mixing two active chemicals, the foam then expands to fill the cavity. It works by trapping air bubbles inside the foam, creating an insulating layer that reduces heat loss.

Benefits

• Durable so it doesn't collapse from age or building vibrations.
• Resistant to attack by rot, fungi & vermin.

Mineral Wool

This material originates from glass fibre or rock so it's extremely tough. Before you insert it into a building's cavity, it must be treated with a water repellent chemical during the manufacturing process. Mineral wool is similar in appearance to the material used in loft insulation.

Benefits

• Ideal if you're on a tight budget because it's cheap.
• Resistant to water penetration.

Expanded Polystyrene Beads

Similar to UF foam, individual expanded polystyrene beads are bound with an adhesive and blown into the cavity. This creates air pockets that form the insulating layer.

Benefits

• The material's breathable properties will allow the release of moisture through the walls while keeping the heat in.

If you'd rather call in the professionals to insulate your home, see Builders.

To make your home even more eco-friendly, see our Energy Saving Tips - there's a number of ways you can reduce your energy bills without too much bother.To spruce up your double-glazing, book a Glazier.