HOME IMPROVEMENT MONTH: APRIL

GA/05.03.08/vs2                                     AFFORDABLE 1/2

INSULATING COSTLY TO HEAT HOMES

Some 40% of homes are more difficult and expensive to insulate than others. They are either of solid wall or non-traditional construction – or perhaps cavity walled properties with leaky outer walls or too narrow cavities.

One very worthwhile solution, particularly for properties needing a facelift, is external wall insulation (ewi). This is a system that covers the outside walls with thick insulation protected by a decorative render, or brick or tile finish.

Approximately 500,000 UK homes have received this energy efficient and weather-resistant treatment. On the Continent millions of homes have been built or renovated in this way.

It is also a better alternative to renewing worn render, or to re-pointing brickwork. An insulated render system or a brick slip insulated system will provide energy saving and other advantages over standard renewal. Meanwhile Building Regulations now require thermal upgrading where walls require substantial overhaul to meet or exceed modern standards of thermal insulation.

E.w.i. can achieve much higher wall insulation values than other insulation methods. It can copy Georgian, Victorian, Edwardian and modern house designs. Tired buildings can be brought up to modern day standards of thermal performance, weatherproofing, and appearance. Property life is extended and values improved. Heating demand is substantially reduced – and any replacement heating system can be of smaller capacity.

Cost is likely to be £4000 or more for a three-bedroom semi detached property – but where renovation work is obviously needed the marginal extra cost falls considerably. Property value can increase pro rata and heating costs fall by a few hundred pounds, dependent on fuel used, heating system, etc.

Applying an e.w.i. system is sound economics for housing that needs updating: and a good feasible option for most other housing. Insurance-backed guarantees are available. Finance may be available from mortgage lenders particularly via green mortgages, and there are restricted and limited grants from energy retailers, particularly where home owners receive State benefits and heating usage is above average for the size of the property.

It is important to insist upon tried and tested British Board of Agrément or Building Research Establishment approved e.w.i. systems, from INCA system members, applied by experienced INCA contractors.

Further information from the Insulated Render & Cladding Association at P O Box 12, Haslemere, Surrey GU27 3AH; tel: 01428 654011; fax: 01428 651401; e-mail: incaassociation@aol.com or www.inca-ltd.org.uk.

Downloadable Images:-

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