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Party Wall Cavity Insulation: Types, Benefits & Costs (2024)
- Party wall cavity insulation can save up to £340 per year, depending on the property type and number of party walls.
- It helps greatly minimise noise disturbance between neighbouring properties.
- Party wall cavity insulation is available in materials such as mineral wool, foam, and polystyrene
Assuring that party walls are adequately insulated is important for maintaining energy efficiency and comfort in your home. Studies have shown that approximately 5 million homes in the UK, which accounts for over a quarter of all homes, could significantly benefit from installing party wall insulation. This simple and effective measure can improve energy efficiency, reduce heat loss, and increase comfort for homeowners.
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What is party wall insulation?
A party wall is a wall that separates and creates a gap between two attached homes, such as semi-detached or terraced properties typically built before 1990. Insulating the walls between you and your neighbours not only helps decrease the transfer of noise between homes but also positively reduces heating costs. Party wall insulation can be incorporated during a standard installation or added later to homes with existing cavity wall insulation.
How does party wall cavity wall insulation work?
Installing party wall cavity insulation is a meticulous and systematic process that guarantees effective thermal insulation between neighbouring properties:
- Inspection: The installer assesses the wall to determine if it is suitable for insulation and, based on its characteristics, selects the most appropriate insulation material.
- Drilling access holes: The installer meticulously drills small holes at regular intervals into the wall to create access to the cavity, ensuring minimal disruption to the structure.
- Injecting insulation material: The chosen insulation material, like mineral wool, foam, or polystyrene beads, is injected or blown into the cavity through a drilled hole using specially equipped equipment. This secures the material and fills the gap, creating a continuous insulating layer.
- Sealing and restoration: The holes are sealed, and the wall surfaces are restored to their original condition.
Different types of party wall insulation
Different materials can be used to insulate party walls to improve energy efficiency and thermal comfort and reduce noise transmission between walls. Here are the main types of party wall insulation commonly used today:
- Mineral wool: Mineral wool, derived from natural or synthetic minerals, offers excellent thermal and acoustic insulation and is known for its fire resistance and durability, making it a reliable choice for insulating party walls.
- Foam Insulation, often polyurethane-based, expands to fill gaps, creating a secure seal that not only reduces heat loss but also significantly improves energy efficiency, making it an economical choice for insulating party walls.
- Polystyrene Beads: Polystyrene beads offer excellent thermal insulation by filling cavities and can be secured with adhesive to prevent movement.
- Fibreglass insulation: Made of fine glass fibres, it offers excellent thermal and acoustic properties. Its non-combustible nature, moisture resistance, and relatively easy installation process make it a popular and reassuring choice for insulating party walls.
- Cellulose Insulation: Cellulose insulation, made from fire-resistant treated recycled paper, is an environmentally friendly and highly efficient thermal insulator. Precise installation techniques are crucial to maintain its integrity
To select the best cavity wall insulation for your project, carefully consider your budget and your energy efficiency goals.
Party wall insulation cost
Cavity insulation cost for party walls can vary depending on your home's size, type, and location. In the UK, typical costs differ based on your home type.
| Material type | Average material cost including installation costs (per m²) |
|---|---|
| Mineral Wool | £15 - £25 |
| Foam Insulation | £25 - £50 |
| Polystyrene Beads | £10 - £20 |
| Fibreglass | £5 - £10 |
| Cellulose Insulation | £10 - £12 |
The UK government aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and has established two grant schemes, the Great British Insulation Scheme and the ECO4 Scheme, that will run until March 2026. These initiatives support households across the UK, offering grants for wall insulation projects and other home efficiency improvements to reduce the carbon footprint of domestic housing.
Let's look at what each scheme has to offer:
- The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) offers single insulation measures for qualifying homes, including party cavity wall insulation grants. Apply directly via the official UK government portal.
- The ECO4 scheme requires energy companies to assist qualifying households. This provides access to home efficiency upgrades, including grants for party wall insulation. Contact your energy provider to apply and check your eligibility for benefits.
Party wall insulation building regulations
Party wall cavity insulation must comply with current building regulations. The main aspect to consider is the age of your home. Homes built between the 1920s and 1980s typically have cavity walls. Since the 1980s, new building regulations have required newly constructed houses to include insulation material within their cavity walls.
The outer walls of any cavity wall must have a thickness greater than 260mm.
To determine the proper insulation level for cavity walls, check your country's building specifications. These specifications are provided in guidance documents that explain how to meet the energy efficiency standards in the Building Regulations.
Approved Document L 2021 in England (ADL 2021)
Approved Document L 2022 in Wales (ADL 2022)
Technical Handbook 6 2022 in Scotland (TH6 2022)
Party wall insulation pros and cons
Understanding the benefits and disadvantages of party wall insulation is essential; these pros and cons can help you make the best choice for your property:
Pros:
- Noise Reduction: Reduce noise transmission between properties and rooms.
- Improved energy efficiency: Helps to reduce heat loss and decrease energy expenses.
- Improved thermal comfort: Maintain a constant indoor temperature.
- Environmental benefits: Lowers carbon footprint with energy savings.
- Increase property value: Adds appeal to energy-conscious buyers.
Cons:
- Initial cost: This can be expensive depending on insulation type and wall size.
- Regulatory compliance: Must meet strict building codes and regulations.
Limited DIY options: Professional cavity wall insulation installation is often required for optimal results.
Should I get insulation for my party wall?
Insulating your cavity party wall has many advantages that significantly improve your home's comfort. By reducing heat loss, improving cavity wall insulation soundproofing, and adding value to your property, party wall cavity insulation can lead to long-term savings and environmental perks. It's a worthwhile investment to decrease energy costs, reduce noise between properties, or support sustainability initiatives.
Are you considering insulating your home? GreenMatch makes it easy. No more time-consuming online searches and appointments. Fill out our quick online form in 30 seconds. You'll receive up to 3 free quotes from trusted installers nearby. Click the button below to get started!
- Describe your needs
- Get free quotes
- Choose the best offer
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