Unlock Energy Savings with External Wall Insulation in the UK
If you're a UK homeowner with a house built before the 1920s, chances are you have solid walls. These walls can cause heat loss, which translates into higher energy bills. Fortunately, the UK government's ECO scheme can help! Solid wall insulation funded by the ECO scheme can enhance your home's energy efficiency and save on heating costs.
Why Solid Wall Insulation Matters
Solid walls, common in homes built before the 1920s, differ from modern cavity walls. They're typically made of bricks or stones and lack the gap in cavity walls. This design makes them prone to letting more heat escape, meaning your home might be colder than it should be and your energy bills higher than they need to be.
By insulating these walls, you can:
- Reduce the heat loss by over 50%
- Create a cosier indoor environment
- Decrease your carbon footprint
- Save substantially on energy bills
How External Wall Insulation Works
External wall insulation adds a layer of insulation material to the outside of your home. This is then covered with protective layers, which can be tailored to a range of finishes to match your desired aesthetic: smooth, painted, or even a traditional masonry brick look.
While this method might add some depth to your external wall (around 70-160mm), it's a small trade-off for the energy efficiency and aesthetic improvements you stand to gain. Plus, while the installation is ongoing, it might require external pipework and other fixtures to be briefly removed and then replaced.
An Inside Look at Internal Wall Insulation
Not keen on changing the external appearance of your home? Internal wall insulation might be for you. This approach involves adding insulation to the inside of your external walls. It uses techniques such as insulated stud work or rigid insulation boards. It's less invasive externally but will reduce room space slightly.
The ECO Scheme: Making it Possible
The ECO Scheme is a government initiative designed to help UK homeowners increase their homes' energy efficiency. The great news is that under this scheme, qualifying households can fund their solid wall insulation, meaning potential savings of up to £12,000 for external wall insulation and around £8,000 for internal wall insulation.
Using the Eco-Home Network, you can navigate the ECO Scheme's ins and outs, ensuring you get the most out of this opportunity. On average, homeowners save around £800 annually on energy bills after insulating their solid walls. So, not only is the insulation potentially free, but it also leads to continuous savings year after year.
Key Takeaways
- Solid walls can cause significant heat loss in homes.
- Insulating these walls, either externally or internally, can lead to substantial energy savings.
- The ECO Scheme allows UK homeowners to insulate their homes at reduced or no cost.
- Using the Eco-Home Network can make the process smoother and ensure you maximise the benefits.
If you're a British homeowner with solid walls, don't miss out on the chance to improve your home's energy efficiency, reduce your carbon footprint, and save on your energy bills. With the help of the Eco-Home Network and the ECO Scheme, a warmer, more eco-friendly home is well within reach.