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Foam Cavity Wall Insulation: A Complete Guide
- The UK government encourages spray foam use in homes and provides funding under the ECO3 Scheme.
- Insulating cavity walls is a cost-effective way to conserve energy. Up to 33% of heat loss occurs through walls, and spray foam insulation can reduce this, cutting energy bills by up to 35%.
- Homes built after 1920 usually have cavity walls.
Are you looking to boost your home's energy efficiency? Proper insulation is vital, and foam cavity wall insulation is a top choice. This guide covers everything you need to know about foam cavity wall insulation, from its benefits and installation process to potential drawbacks and maintenance tips.
Are you thinking about insulating your home? Let GreenMatch handle all the time-consuming research and screening for you. Instead of wasting hours searching online and scheduling appointments with installers, complete our quick online form in just 30 seconds, and we'll send you up to 3 free quotes from reputable installers in your area. Click the button below to get started now!
Is foam cavity wall insulation good?
Foam cavity wall insulation is an excellent choice for insulation and is known to be one of the most effective materials for insulation. However, it is the most expensive option and requires professional installation. Foam insulation can resist moisture, making it suitable for areas prone to dampness or humidity. Furthermore, its easy installation makes it a convenient option for homeowners and contractors.
Spray foam insulation is applied as a liquid into the spaces between walls and then expands into a foam, increasing to 100 times its original size. This expansion allows it to effectively fill and seal all gaps, minimising heat exchange between a building's interior and exterior. For more cost-effective options, you can consider mineral wool or polystyrene beads. It's essential to consult a qualified professional to determine the best cavity wall insulation for your needs.
Benefits of cavity wall insulation foam
Spray foam insulation provides many benefits, making it a worthwhile investment. Here are the advantages of selecting foam cavity wall insulation:
Optimal energy efficiency
Insulating your cavity walls with spray foam is a powerful solution for year-round comfort. It's a known fact that a staggering 33% of heat loss occurs through walls, leading to significant energy waste. By going for spray foam cavity wall insulation, you can potentially reduce your monthly energy bills by up to 35%. This type of insulation is a pro at retaining heat, ensuring your home is a warm sanctuary in winter and a cool refuge in summer, regardless of the weather outside.
Moisture resistance
Foam insulation resists moisture, preventing dampness and mould growth in your walls. This helps create a healthier indoor environment and protects your home's structure. Foam cavity wall insulation keeps your property healthy for longer and requires less maintenance.
Ease of installation
The spray foam cavity wall insulation process is less messy and disruptive than typical insulation methods. The contractor will spray high-quality insulation foam directly into the cavity walls through a hole, which is quick and causes little to no disruption.
Long lasting
The longevity of spray foam insulation dramatically depends on proper installation and regular maintenance. When installed correctly and well-maintained, spray foam insulation can last 25-30 years or even longer. This durability allows homeowners to recover their initial investment relatively quickly and subsequently enjoy ongoing savings over the long term.
What is the cost of foam cavity wall insulation?
The average foam cavity wall insulation cost typically ranges from £20 to £40 per square metre.
The total cost of foam cavity wall insulation depends on several factors:
- Area to be insulated (m²): Larger areas will naturally incur higher costs.
- Type of foam material: Different foam materials have varying costs.
- Cavity condition and accessibility: Complex installations or hard-to-reach areas can increase labour costs.
- Professional installation fees: Injected cavity wall insulation requires expertise which adds to the cost.
| Foam material | Cost per m² | Average total cost |
|---|---|---|
| Polyurethane (PU) Foam | £20- £40 | £1,000 - £1,500 |
| Urea-Formaldehyde Foam | £10 - £20 | £500 - £1,500 |
| Phenolic Foam | £25 - £45 | £1,250 - £ 2,250 |
| Polyisocyanurate foam (PIR foam) | £30 - £50 | £1,500 - £2,500 |
| Additional services | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Pre-installation inspection | £100 - £300 |
| Scaffolding (if needed) | £200 - £500 |
| Post-installation services | £50 - £200 |
The initial cost of cavity wall insulation foam injection may seem high, but the long-term savings on energy bills and increased home comfort often make it a worthwhile investment. It's important to consult a qualified insulation professional who can provide you with an accurate quote tailored to your specific needs.
DIY installation of cavity insulation
Installing cavity foam insulation as a do-it-yourself project is complex and challenging. It requires a good understanding of building structures and insulation materials. Improper installation can lead to inadequate coverage, moisture buildup, and structural damage. The process involves:
- Drilling precise holes into the exterior walls.
- Injecting the foam evenly.
- Ensuring that all cavities are filled adequately without gaps.
Hiring a professional with specialised equipment and expertise is generally recommended to ensure optimal results and avoid potential problems.
What are the problems with spray foam cavity wall insulation?
When installed by someone without proper qualifications, spray foam cavity wall insulation, while highly effective, can lead to several issues. Here are the main problems:
- Inadequate coverage: Inexperienced installers often fail to distribute the foam evenly, leading to gaps and cold spots in the insulation. This significantly reduces its effectiveness in retaining heat.
- Moisture issues: Improper installation may lead to moisture entrapment within the walls, resulting in dampness, mould growth, and structural damage.
- Over-expansion: If the foam expands excessively, it can exert pressure on the walls, causing cracks that may lead to dampness and mould in the cavity wall.
- Poor adhesion: The foam may only adhere correctly with proper surface preparation, reducing its insulating effectiveness.
- Difficulty in future renovations: Poorly installed spray foam can make future renovations more difficult because it might need to be taken out and replaced.
- Sustainability: Polyurethane is a highly toxic and non-recyclable chemical. Throughout its lifetime, it can release harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and off-gases, posing a risk to human health and the environment.
To avoid these problems, it is best to have a professional install your spray foam insulation. Certified professionals have the expertise and equipment to apply the insulation correctly, which minimises the risk of moisture problems and structural issues. Consult with a qualified insulation contractor to ensure a safe and effective installation.
Find qualified foam cavity wall installers near you
When considering cavity wall insulation installation for your home, finding a qualified installer is crucial to ensure the job is done correctly. The value of obtaining multiple quotes cannot be overstated. It's important to request quotes from several contractors. This allows you to compare prices, evaluate professionalism, and even negotiate. By following these steps and obtaining multiple quotes, you can confidently choose a qualified foam cavity wall insulation installer who will deliver excellent service and guarantee your insulation is efficient and long-lasting.
Are you considering insulating your home? Let GreenMatch do the research for you. Instead of spending hours searching for installers, simply fill out our quick online form in 30 seconds. We'll then provide up to 3 free quotes from trusted installers near you. Click below to get started now!
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