Is Upgrading External Wall Insulation Worth it?

Is Upgrading External Wall Insulation Worth it?

External wall insulation is an important building material that offers a range of benefits that can significantly enhance the energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the home. Wall insulation also helps regulate the temperature of the home, keeping it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. In this blog post, we discuss why external wall insulation is so important and when you may need to upgrade.

What Are the Benefits of External Wall Insulation?

Temperature Control

External wall insulation plays a crucial role in controlling the temperature inside your home. This is because approximately 15-20% of the home’s heat loss and gain is through the wall. Yet with adequate insulation, the home can maintain a comfortable temperature all year round.

Energy Consumption

One of the most significant benefits of external wall insulation is its ability to reduce energy consumption. By improving the thermal performance of your walls, it reduces the need for heating and cooling, leading to a reduced carbon footprint. In most cases, the higher the R-value of the insulation, the best the thermal results.

Cost Savings

Installing external wall insulation can result in substantial cost savings over time. While the initial investment may seem significant, the long-term savings on energy bills can quickly offset the cost, not to mention the increased resale value of the home.

Acoustic Benefits

External wall insulation also provides acoustic benefits by reducing the transmission of sound through the walls. This can help create a quieter and more peaceful indoor environment, particularly in areas with high levels of road noise or foot traffic.

When to Upgrade Your Insulation

Targeting Internal Noise

There are many acoustic insulation products that not only offer the benefits of wall insulation, but specifically target the reduction of noise throughout the home, room to room. Upgrading your insulation to internal walls in rooms such as theatres and games rooms will further reduce sound transfer and create a more comfortable space in large homes.

National Construction Code (NCC) Compliance

As Victoria moves into the final iteration of the NCC 2022 energy efficiency changes, 7-Star rating and whole-of-home (WOH) will come into effect. This will see more and more houses having to upgrade the insulation in their homes to ensure they meet the minimum requirements under the building code.

These upgrades will affect the R-Value of the insulation, mid-floor insulation and internal wall insulation. These will be determined during the NatHERS Compliance assessment, prior to any building permits issued.

Zoning

Upgrading insulation to internal walls, may be required to achieve 7-Star rating and whole-of-home compliance. This insulation may be required in order to provide zoning to certain areas of the home during different times of the day. The aim is to heat or cool only the zones that are occupied, to save energy and costs.

Top Tips for External Wall Insulation

• Choose the right R-value for the climate to maximise the results
• Install the insulation following guidelines or using a professional service to avoid condensation build-up and mould
• Choose the right products from reputable brands to reduce issues such as rot, mould or bacteria growth.

Upgrades in external wall insulation is a worthwhile investment for homeowners, not only to improve the comfort and livability of your home, but also to offer significant energy and cost savings over time.

Bowens Range of Insulation

Bowens supplies a variety of external wall insulation, including acoustic insulation, insulation batts, roof insulation, foil insulation and more, suitable for residential and commercial properties. Explore our range of products online today.