External wall insulation

Wquirke1234

Hi.

I am looking to increase heat retention in a detached house built in 2006 in Limerick. Is it possible to do external wall insulation if the cavity has previously been pumped with beads? Complete novice here so might seem a silly question.

Thanks in advance

Biker1

Yes, it's ideal that the cavity is already pumped. If you are considering the EWI make sure when getting quotes that you need the insulation to extend up through the soffit to meet the attic insulation. Also best practice is to use XPS insulation from the plinth down 450mm below ground level and move the windows out flush with the face of the blockwork.

budhabob

Random question re EWI..ESB are coming out to unclip the cables on Tuesday, question is, does someone need to be here for them?

Wquirke1234

Thanks biker. do you know if it's common to do parts of the house with ewi and others i.e the front with internal wall insulation? Or could you end up with cold spots where the two join?

MicktheMan

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058258448/external-wall-insulation

Just a word of caution; EWI will have very little impact if (like a lot of houses) your primary heat loss mechanism is general air leakage rather than conduction through walls.

Wquirke1234

Thanks Mick. What would you say is the biggest cause of air leakage?