Free External Wall Insulation (EWI)

Upgrade your property with External Wall Insulation. Learn about the ECO4 Ofgem Grant Scheme and benefits, costs, and maintenance. Start saving on energy now.

Apply online in 60 seconds

We Take Care of Everything

Everything Installed for Free

FREE heat saving upgrade

External wall insulation (EWI) is a cost-effective and energy-efficient solution for improving the energy performance of your home or building. It involves adding an insulating layer to the outside of the building’s exterior walls, which helps to reduce heat loss, improve indoor comfort, and lower energy bills. Here, we will be discussing the benefits, costs, and considerations of installing EWI, and how to take advantage of government incentives, such as the ECO4 Ofgem Grant Scheme, to help make the process more affordable.

Here are other guides that you may also want to check out:

Overview

1. What Is External Wall Insulation?

2. Benefits Of Installing External Wall Insulation

3. Disadvantages Of External Wall Insulation

4. Working With Government Incentives

5. Things To Be Aware Of When Installing External Wall Insulation

6.Getting The Most Out Of Your External Wall Insulation

7. FAQs And Responses

8. Final Considerations

Apply online in 60 seconds

We Take Care of Everything

Everything Installed for Free

1. What Is External Wall Insulation (EWI)?

EWI is a type of insulation that is fitted to the outside of a building, creating a protective layer around the walls. It helps to prevent heat from escaping and reduces energy consumption, which can lead to significant savings on energy bills. It also enhances the appearance of the building and improves its overall energy efficiency, making it a popular choice for homeowners and landlords looking to make their properties more sustainable. External wall insulation can be applied to a variety of building types, including both old and new buildings.

Where Can I Use External Wall Insulation?

EWI is a versatile insulation solution that can be used in several types of buildings, including residential, commercial, and industrial structures. It is particularly useful in older buildings, where the walls are often poorly insulated, as well as in buildings that experience high levels of heat loss or dampness. External wall insulation can be installed on a wide range of wall types, including brick, block, stone, and concrete, and it can be used to improve the energy efficiency and thermal performance of both new and existing buildings.

Confirm your eligibility for ECO4 government backed energy grants worth £’000s!

2. Benefits Of Installing External Wall Insulation (EWI)

Working with government incentives, EWI has become an increasingly popular measure for improving the energy efficiency of both residential and commercial buildings. EWI is a highly effective way of insulating the walls of a building by adding an insulating layer on the outside of the existing wall. This method is highly efficient in reducing heat loss through the walls and improving the thermal performance of the building, resulting in significant energy savings and reduced carbon emissions. 

Additionally, EWI can improve the overall appearance of a building, increase property value and improve the indoor air quality and comfort of the occupants. Here are some more benefits of the external wall insulation: 

  • Energy Savings: EWI helps to reduce heat loss from the building, which results in lower energy consumption and cost savings on heating bills.
  • Increased Energy Efficiency And Reduced Carbon Footprint: By reducing the amount of energy escaping through the walls of a building, external wall insulation helps to lower carbon emissions and promote a more sustainable future.
  • Increased Property Value: Installing external wall insulation can add value to a property by improving its energy efficiency and making it more attractive to potential buyers.
  • Improved Indoor Air Quality And Comfort: EWI helps to eliminate cold spots and draughts in a building, which improves indoor air quality and creates a more comfortable living environment.

3. Disadvantages Of External Wall Insulation (EWI)

While EWI has many benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. The cost of installation can be relatively high compared to other insulation methods, and there may be ongoing maintenance and operating costs to keep the system running smoothly. Additionally, some homeowners may not appreciate the changes in the appearance of their home after the insulation is installed. It’s important to weigh these potential downsides against the benefits to determine if external wall insulation is the right choice for your property.

External Wall Insulation Cost

EWI can be an expensive home improvement project, with costs varying depending on the type of insulation material, the size of the property, and the level of installation required. However, it’s important to remember that external wall insulation can lead to long-term cost savings on energy bills, making it a worthwhile investment. Additionally, UK residents may be eligible for government funding through the ECO4 (Ofgem Grant Scheme) program to offset the cost of installation, with funding available to cover up to 100% of the costs for eligible households.

Maintenance Costs

External wall insulation generally requires very little maintenance and has a long lifespan of up to 25 years or more. However, it’s essential to regularly check for any damage or wear and tear, such as gaps or missing mortar. Any issues should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage to the insulation and the building’s structure. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that the insulation remains dry and free from any moisture damage, which could compromise its performance.

Changes In The Appearance Of The Building

One of the potential drawbacks of external wall insulation is that it can significantly alter the appearance of a building. The cladding materials used in EWI may be different from the existing building’s finish, and this can create a stark contrast that some may find unappealing. However, there are many different types of cladding materials available, and with careful consideration and planning, it’s possible to find an option that complements the existing style and aesthetics of the building.

What Our Customers Say

5 stars across the board. Brilliant service from first contact to installation team. I would highly recommend them. Thank you all.

Confirm your eligibility for ECO4 government backed energy grants worth £’000s!

4. Working With Government Incentives

Luckily, there are ways to offset the significant investment costs that come with insulation your property. Among these, the ECO 4 is the most prominent. Let’s learn more: 

ECO 4 (Ofgem Grant Scheme) External Wall Insulation Grants

The ECO4 (Ofgem Grant Scheme) offers a grant to homeowners and landlords to help with the cost of EWI. To qualify for funding, your property must meet certain criteria, including being considered “hard-to-treat” and having insufficient insulation. In addition to the ECO4 scheme, there may be other government programs available to help with the cost of external wall insulation, depending on your location and circumstances. It’s worth exploring all the available options to find the best solution for your specific needs.

How External Wall Insulation Qualifies For Funding

Ofgem’s ECO4 scheme offers funding for EWI to eligible UK households. To qualify for funding, the home must be classified as “hard-to-treat,” which means it is difficult to insulate using standard methods. EWI is considered a more effective solution for these types of properties. Additionally, the household must meet certain criteria, such as income levels and receiving certain benefits. 

Steps To Apply For Funding Through Government Incentive Schemes

Once eligibility is established, homeowners or tenants can apply for ECO4 funding to cover some or all of the costs of external wall insulation installation. Here are the steps to go through to apply for the incentive: 

Funding Available on a First Come First Served Basis

£4bn in Funding Available

3.5 Million homes are Eligible

  1. Determine Eligibility – Homeowners and tenants must ensure that their property meets the criteria for ECO4 funding, including being privately owned or rented, “hard-to-treat,” and lacking adequate insulation.
  2. Contact an Approved Supplier – To receive ECO4 funding, homeowners and tenants must work with an approved supplier participating in the scheme to install energy-efficient measures such as external wall insulation.
  3. Home Assessment – The approved supplier will assess the property to determine eligibility for funding and the most suitable energy-saving measures for the specific property.
  4. Choose an Approved Provider – Based on the assessment results, a list of approved providers who can install the energy-saving measures will be provided. Homeowners and tenants can choose their preferred provider.
  5. Sign the Contract – After selecting a provider, a contract will be signed agreeing to have the energy-saving measures installed.
  6. Installation and Payment – The approved provider will install the energy-saving measures and the funding will be applied directly to the cost of the work.

3 Easy Steps

1

Check Your Eligibility

Fill in the quick form - we’ll call you (usually within a day)

2

Retrofit Assesment

If eligible we'll book a free survey. Once complete, we’ll secure your energy grant

3

Get installed

Our accredited Installation partners will make the heating improvements

Confirm your eligibility for ECO4 government backed energy grants worth £’000s!

5. Things To Be Aware Of When Installing External Wall Insulation (EWI)

When it comes to installing EWI, the insulation works effectively for as long as all the installation factors are considered. It’s important to choose the right type of insulation that best suits your building’s needs, based on factors such as insulation type, thickness, and location. The need for other energy efficiency upgrades, such as air sealing, should also be considered. Hiring a licensed and experienced installer who understands the complexities of the insulation process is also important. 

The Type Of Insulation That Best Suits The Building’s Needs

There are several types of insulation materials available for external wall insulation, including expanded polystyrene, mineral wool, and polyurethane foam. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits the needs of the building. For example, mineral wool may be more suitable for buildings in high-risk fire areas, while polyurethane foam may provide better thermal insulation. 

The Size And Location Of The Insulation

The size and location of the insulation will depend on the size of the building and the areas that need insulation. The insulation should be installed on the external walls, and the thickness of the insulation will depend on the thermal conductivity of the material and the energy efficiency required. It’s important to take into account any obstructions, such as windows or doors, which may need special attention.

The Need For Other Energy Efficiency Upgrades

While external wall insulation is a great way to improve energy efficiency, it’s not the only measure that can be taken. For example, upgrading to energy-efficient windows, adding insulation to the roof, and improving air sealing can also help to increase energy efficiency and reduce heating costs.

Hiring A Licensed EWI Installer

Hiring a licensed external wall insulation installer is crucial to ensure the installation is carried out safely and efficiently. A qualified installer has the necessary skills and knowledge to select and install the appropriate insulation materials for your building. 

6. Getting The Most Out Of Your External Wall Insulation (EWI)

As always, it is essential to have a professional inspect the system periodically to ensure that all components are functioning correctly. They can also help identify any parts that may need to be upgraded or replaced. By doing so, you can keep your trickle vent system running smoothly and effectively over time. 

  • Regular Cleaning And Maintenance – Trickle vents need to be cleaned regularly to ensure optimal performance. This includes cleaning the vents with a soft cloth or brush and checking for any obstructions that could affect airflow. It’s also essential to inspect the vent seals. This is done to ensure they are in good condition and replace them if necessary. 
  • Upgrading And Replacing Components As Needed – While trickle vents are relatively low-maintenance, components may wear out over time and require upgrading or replacement. This includes the vent itself, the frame, and the seals. Upgrading to more energy-efficient models may also be an option to enhance the overall performance of the ventilation system.

7. FAQs And Responses

The cost of EWI varies depending on the size of the property, the type of insulation, and the complexity of the installation. However, the ECO4 Ofgem Grant Scheme can offset up to 100% of the cost, making the investment more affordable.

EWI typically ranges from 50-200mm in thickness, depending on the type of insulation used and the required energy performance level.

If EWI is damaged or begins to show signs of age, a licensed external wall insulation installer should be contacted to carry out repairs. DIY fixes are not recommended as they can compromise the effectiveness of the insulation and potentially create new problems.

The best EWI depends on the specific needs and characteristics of the building, such as the type of walls, insulation requirements, and budget. It’s essential to consult with a licensed external wall insulation installer to determine the most suitable option.

8. Final Considerations

External wall insulation is a worthwhile investment for any homeowner looking to reduce their energy bills and carbon footprint, increase their property value, and improve the indoor air quality and comfort of their living space. While there are some disadvantages and costs associated with EWI, the benefits far outweigh them. With the help of government incentive schemes, such as the ECO4 Ofgem Grant Scheme, homeowners can offset some or all of the costs associated with installing external wall insulation. By working with licensed professionals, upgrading to smart thermostats, improving insulation and air sealing, and installing double-glazed windows, you can get the most out of your external wall insulation and enjoy its benefits for years to come.

Our Accreditations

Confirm your eligibility for ECO4 government backed energy grants worth £’000s!