Today, we will dive into the basics of external wall insulation, the benefits it offers for your home, the different types of insulation, and more. Stick with us to find the right solution for your improvement project.

What is External Wall Insulation?

External wall insulation is an insulative layer that is applied to the exterior walls of a building.

This is covered by a protective render or cladding to enhance thermal performance and appearance.

EWI consists of three main components:

Insulation layer: This is the main component and is commonly comprised of expanded polystyrene (EPS), mineral wool, or polyurethane foam. Each material provides distinct advantages in terms of thermal resistance, fire safety, and sound insulation.
Adhesives and fixings: These are used to secure the insulation panels to the outer walls. The type of insulation and existing wall structure determine the adhesive and fasteners used.
Render or cladding: This is the outermost layer that protects the insulation from environmental influences while also providing an aesthetic finish. It can range from basic cement renders to decorative cladding materials like tiles, brick slips, and synthetic finishes.

The Benefits of External Wall Insulation

There are many benefits to installing external wall insulation on your commercial or residential property. This includes:

Energy efficiency: EWI helps to trap heat in the home during the winter and reflects heat away during the summer, reducing the reliance on artificial heating and cooling.
Cost savings: The long-term savings generated by EWI can offset the initial investment of this insulation, saving you money in the long-run.
Thermal comfort: EWI reduces heat loss during the winter and helps to keep the interior cool during the summer. This leads to a more comfortable home or working environment.
Enhanced visual appeal: The final render or cladding layer that covers the insulation can be produced in a range of textures, colours, and styles to personalise the building to your preferences.
Reduced carbon footprint: EWI decreases reliance on artificial heating and cooling, reducing a building’s carbon emissions for a greener planet.
Extended lifespan: The insulation and external render or cladding shield the underlying brickwork from weather-related degradation, such as freeze-thaw cycles and moisture infiltration, which can cause fractures and other structural problems over time.

The Different Types of Insulation Materials

There are various types of external wall insulation on the market. The most popular types include:

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)

EPS is lightweight, inexpensive, and provides good heat resistance. It’s composed of 98% air, making it an excellent insulator.

This can be applied to a variety of building types. However, its fire performance is inferior to that of other materials, necessitating the use of fire-retardant facings or treatments.

Mineral Wool

Mineral wool is renowned for its exceptional fire resistance and acoustic qualities. It’s made of natural rock or recycled steel mill slag, and it's extremely durable and moisture-resistant.

This is ideal for structures that require more fire safety and sound insulation. Its durability makes it ideal for high-rise buildings or places with strict fire codes.

Polyurethane Foam (PUR) and Polyisocyanurate (PIR)

When compared to other insulation options, both PUR and PIR provide higher thermal performance while maintaining a smaller profile. PIR is more resistant to fire and temperature than PUR.

These materials are ideal for projects with limited space due to their high insulation values and thin design. They are also used in climates with fluctuating temperatures.

Wood Fiber

Wood fibre is composed of crushed wood fibres and provides good thermal and acoustic insulation. It’s breathable, which helps to manage indoor humidity and lowers the likelihood of condensation.

This is frequently chosen for its environmental benefits, as it’s both renewable and recyclable. Wood fibre insulation is ideal for eco-friendly projects or heritage structures where breathability is essential.

Phenolic Foam

Phenolic foam has extremely high thermal efficiency and good fire performance. It’s stiffer and less permeable than other foams.

Because of its excellent insulation and fire resistance, phenolic foam is suited for use in a wide range of residential and commercial buildings, particularly where safety requirements require high fire standards.

Maintenance and Care for External Wall Insulation

To keep your EWI in great condition, routinely check for cracks or damage in the render or cladding.

Any signs of moisture may indicate leaks in the waterproof layer or mould on the surface, which indicates excessive moisture.

To prevent dirt build-up or organic growth, clean the rendered surface with soap and water. For cladding materials, opt for specialised cleaning agents, especially for wood or metal.

Address any cracks promptly with sealant, and ensure that gutters and downpipes are clear of debris to prevent water overflow. Ensure any extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms are functioning correctly to reduce indoor humidity levels.

Repair any flashes or seals around doors and windows to prevent water damage and pest infestations.

Choose Beesley and Fildes for your External Wall Insulation

At Beesley and Fildes, we house a range of high-quality EWI for various buildings and projects.

From Plustherm polystyrene insulation to aluminium starter tracks for EWI installation, we have everything you need for a smooth project and an energy-efficient home.

Browse our products today to invest in the success of your home improvement project or professional installation.