Wall and attic insulation are the most common and easiest way to save energy in the home. Many homes in Ireland do not have proper wall or attic insulation. Attic insulation should be prioritised as it is here that most of the heat loss occurs. SEAI statists show that the percentage heat loss here, is in the region of 30%.
The correct depth for attic insulation is 300mm. There is an SEAI grant available for this procedure. In some cases, attic insulation could be free under the Warmer Homes Scheme. This is where a house owner may be on a certain Social Welfare payment.
Heat loss through external walls is on average 25%. There are three types of wall insulation – internal, external and cavity wall insulation. Cavity wall insulation is the most ‘commonly known’. This is where the cavity is pumped with foam/beads that forms an insulated protective barrier in the cavity.
Older houses were built with either solid block or stone without a cavity. These can be insulated with either internal or external insulation. Internal insulation, also referred to as dry-lining, involves fixing insulation boards to the inner surfaces of external walls.
External wall insulation is the best way to insulate your walls. This involves fixing insulation materials to the outer surface of the wall. The insulation is then covered with a special render to provide weather and impact resistance. Wall insulation is also SEAI grant aided.
The Home Energy Saving kit is a new device that will assist home owners check the energy efficiency in their homes. This product was recently launched by Cavan County Local Development (CCLD) and funded by the Cavan Monaghan Education and Training Board (CMETB), Reach Fund.
