What is External Wall Insulation?

External wall insulation involves the installation of an insulating layer to the exterior walls of a building. This layer is then covered with a reinforcing mesh and a protective render. The renders come in various finishes, allowing homeowners to achieve their desired aesthetic while adding value to the property.

If you’re still thinking, "Is insulation for external walls worth it?" here are the key benefits that might convince you.

Key Benefits of External Wall Insulation

1. Enhanced Thermal Performance

One of the primary benefits of insulating external walls is its ability to reduce heat loss. Adding a layer of insulation prevents heat from escaping through the walls, keeping your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. This improved thermal performance translates to lower energy bills, as your heating and cooling systems won't have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature. 

The effectiveness of external insulation for walls is often measured by its U-value. The U-value is a measure of how well a material allows heat to pass through it. Lower U-values indicate better insulating properties. When you have external wall insulation installed, the U-value of your walls decreases, meaning less heat escapes and your home becomes more energy-efficient. This improved external wall insulation U-value is a key metric in demonstrating its efficiency.

2. Weatherproofing

External insulation for walls provides a durable, weatherproof house exterior that protects your building from the elements. Whether it’s rain, snow, sunlight or wind, EWI acts as a barrier, shielding your property from harsh weather conditions. This protection helps prevent damage and deterioration, extending the lifespan of your building and its structure.

3. Condensation Control

Condensation can lead to a range of problems, including mould growth and structural damage. Insulating walls externally helps eliminate condensation by maintaining a consistent temperature on the walls, reducing the risk of moisture build-up. This creates a healthier living environment and preserves the integrity of your building.

4. Improved Appearance

With a variety of renders and finishes available, external house insulation allows you to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property. Whether you prefer a modern look or a traditional style, you can choose a finish that complements your taste and improves your home's kerb appeal. This not only makes your property more attractive but can also increase its market value.



5. Acoustic Benefits

External wall insulation systems can also improve the acoustic quality of your home. The insulating layer helps reduce noise transmission from outside, creating a quieter and more peaceful indoor environment. This is particularly beneficial for properties located in busy urban areas.

6. Environmental Impact

By reducing heat loss and improving energy efficiency, external wall insulation products help lower your carbon footprint. This contributes to environmental conservation efforts and supports sustainable living practices. Additionally, many external wall insulation systems are made from eco-friendly materials, further enhancing their ecological benefits.

Ideal for New Builds and Refurbishments

New Build Properties

External wall insulation is an excellent choice for new construction due to its cost-effectiveness and long-term benefits. It simplifies design processes,

supports fast-track build programmes, conserves energy and helps meet the requirements of building regulations and sustainability codes.



Refurbishment Projects

For existing buildings, external wall insulation offers numerous advantages:

• Minimal Disruption: Installation is carried out externally, causing little disturbance to occupants.
• Choice of Finishes: A wide range of colours and textures is available to match or enhance the building’s original character.
• Preservation of Internal Space: Unlike internal insulation, EWI does not reduce the usable floor area.
• Increased Property Value: Enhanced appearance and improved energy efficiency can boost property market value.
• Extended Building Lifespan: EWI protects and revamps older buildings, extending their usability and lifespan.



Choosing the Right External Wall Insulation Company

When considering external wall insulation, choose a reputable company with an excellent track record. We at JUB Systems UK are qualified to make recommendations on installers of external wall insulation and have a JUB Approved Installers list of contacts to help you find the best professionals for the job. Whether you are looking for external wall insulation companies in your local area or specific regions like external wall insulation in Leicester, doing thorough research and reading customer reviews can help ensure you get quality service and products.

Conclusion

External wall insulation is an investment that offers a multitude of benefits, from improved thermal performance and weatherproofing to enhanced aesthetics and environmental sustainability. Whether for new builds or refurbishment projects, EWI is a smart, cost-effective solution that adds value and longevity to properties.

Explore our range of external wall insulation products and systems to find the perfect match for your property. With over 140 years of experience and one of Europe’s leading technical research centres, we at JUB Systems UK provide accredited solutions tailored to your project. Contact us to learn how external wall insulation (EWI) can benefit your home or building.