Internal wall insulation or IWI, is effectively insulation that is applied to the interior surface of a building’s external walls.

Typically, it is bonded or screwed to the walls and extends from the very bottom of the ground floor to the eaves, where it joins the roof insulation.

Its purpose is to provide a complete internal insulation skin to keep the building’s interior warm. This post will explain everything you need to know about internal wall insulation.

How does internal insulation work?

Internal insulation is applied to the walls to prevent heat loss through the walls, but its most essential function is to create a barrier between you and the masonry wall beneath. This is an important aspect because external insulation does not perform this function.

Upon entering a room, your perception of comfort is determined by 2 factors. The first is the rooms actual temperature, while the second is the feedback you receive from the room. This is the quantity of infrared radiation emitted by all surfaces surrounding you and sensed by your skin.

When employing internal insulation, only a small quantity is required to produce a significant comfort enhancement. The significance of wall insulation regarding energy efficiency and creating a comfortable living environment cannot be emphasised enough. 

Internal wall insulation types

Internal wall insulation consists primarily of insulated plasterboard and insulation with structural walls.

  • Insulated plasterboard: Also known as a thermal board, this prefabricated product incorporates plasterboard and insulation material. This variety is typically the simplest to install, as it can adhere directly to the walls using adhesive.
  • Stud wall insulation: This technique involves attaching a stud wall to the existing wall, then filling the resulting space with insulation material and covering it with plasterboard. Despite being more labour-intensive than insulated plasterboard, this form of IWI can provide greater insulation levels and is frequently used for irregular wall surfaces.

Internal wall insulation advantages

Internal wall insulation provides numerous advantages, including the following:

  • Energy efficiency: IWI can substantially reduce energy consumption by minimising heat loss and gain, resulting in substantial savings on heating costs.
  • Better room temperature: IWI helps maintain a more consistent temperature throughout the residence, thereby increasing the overall comfort level.
  • Carbon footprint reduction: By minimising energy consumption, IWI reduces a homes carbon footprint, promoting environmental conservation.
  • Minimised noise: Insulation materials can also provide a degree of soundproofing, minimising noise transmission between rooms and to the exterior.

Disadvantages

  • Short of space: Existing wall coatings must often be removed and replaced during IWI installation, resulting in potential disruptions to your living space. IWI can marginally reduce your interior floor space.
  • Moisture mishaps: Improper installation of IWI can result in moisture issues within your walls; therefore, professional installation and consultation are required to avoid risks.
  • Moisture problems: To mitigate potential problems, you will need to rely on expert installation and consultation services, which may increase the overall cost.
  • Disruption: The IWI installation process can be more disruptive than other insulation techniques, and you may be required to temporarily vacate the affected rooms while the work is completed.

To make an informed decision about internal wall insulation for your home, it is essential to balance these disadvantages against the potential advantages.

    Is there funding available for internal wall insulation?

    To qualify for a grant, you must meet specific requirements. Either you must be a homeowner or you must reside in a privately rented property. The criteria for renting a private residence are based on you and your circumstances, not on your owners.

    You can find out more about funding by reading our how to apply for an ECO grant page. Before any work is performed on the landlord’s property, you must consult with the landlord. If you or a member of your household receives certain means-tested benefits, you may be eligible for a grant through the ECO4 scheme.

    We also have a grants section where you can check out all available grants in the UK at the moment.

    Check if you qualify

    Internal wall insulation is a fantastic method to reduce your homes energy bills, make your home more comfortable, and enhance indoor air quality. If you are considering installing internal wall insulation, contact Consumer Rights.

    We will be able to assess your case and eligibility. Alternatively, you  can check your eligibility for funding here if you want to learn how to insulate your home.

    Final Thoughts

    In conclusion, adopting internal wall insulation is crucial to accomplishing these objectives, creating a more comfortable living environment, and protecting the environment for future generations.

    Internal wall insulation could be your answer to cheaper energy bills and a warmer home this winter.