Breathable (moisture vapour permeable) insulation is a great thing to have if you want to stop heat escaping through walls while still allowing moisture to escape without being trapped.

This is extremely important, the relationship between buildings and moisture is an essential part of structural health and performance of a property.

A lack of breathability in the building materials can then lead to condensation (damp) and a lot more issues too! Current building technology now consider breathability, thermal performance and airtightness all as essential elements.

Some older properties were built with weak and porous mortars, plasters and renders, which can absorb moisture in the form of rain and air borne moisture (humidity) both inside and outside. The moisture that is absorbed by the building must be able to migrate out of the property – This is sometimes known as the walls “breathing”

This is why it is recommended that you choose the appropriate materials with the right level of breathability for the insulation works. There are many alternatives and we would be happy to discuss the various options to help you to reach the correct decision.

To summarise the advantages of breathable EWI systems

The correct insulant will :

• Reduce heat loss walls whilst still allowing moisture to escape.
• Help maintain an equilibrium within the fabric of the building protecting against unnecessary moisture build up.

Want to know more about EWI and Breathability?

Get in touch :

Email – info@licataltd.co.uk

Visit one of our branches – Find them here.

By Phone – Find our list of numbers here.

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Our planet is experiencing a climate emergency and we need to do everything we can to reduce our carbon output if we want to

protect our world we live in.

We are also in the middle of a very real cost of living crisis. Energy prices souring to all time heights with no sign of abating.

Insulating your home offers energy bill savings as well as providing amazing benefits for the environment too.

How Does This Reduce Your Carbon Footprint?

Reducing heat loss from your home, insulation reduces/removes your need to constantly rely on gas and electric powered central heating systems by turning down the thermostat and being so much more efficient thus reducing the amount of CO2 you produce and shrinking your carbon footprint. Something to be really proud of.

Energy Saving Trust Figures Have Shown :

• External Wall Insulation – can reduce carbon output by 1490kg per year ( along with £490 of savings )
• Cavity Wall Insulation – can reduce carbon output by 1500kg per year ( along with £250 of savings )
• Loft Insulation – can reduce carbon output by 125kg per year ( along with £250 of savings )

Insulating your property along with other measures such as heat pumps and double glazed windows, you can make your home far more comfortable,

green and sustainable.

Get in touch :

Email – info@licataltd.co.uk

Visit one of our branches – Find them here.

By Phone – Find our list of numbers here.

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One of the major issues found within the British housing stock, especially solid wall buildings, is dampness. This can present itself in several ways: water ingress, condensation, and rising damp, which can cause structural damage to the fabric of the property, unsightly staining, unpleasant odours, and health issues, such as Asthma. External wall insulation is a great solution to such issues, an effective way of protecting the building and improving your home’s overall energy efficiency.

External wall insulation, (EWI) is a multi-layered insulation and render system designed to be applied to the outside of a property providing both strong and robust protection against the elements, improving aesthetics whilst creating a warm cosy environment to live in. Here are some more details on how EWI works to protect a building from damp:

• Barrier against moisture: EWI provides a barrier between the external elements and the internal structure of the building. This barrier can help to keep rainwater out and reduce the risk of damp occurring. When EWI is installed, it is essential that a DPC is identified and is intact to prevent moisture from the ground rising which is known as rising damp. Therefore, it is imperative that a full survey of the property is carried out before any works are agreed

• Improved airtightness: EWI can help to improve the airtightness of the building by reducing or eliminating any thermal bridging that may be present. A thermal bridge is where cold moist air from outside penetrates a building and when it encounters the warmth of the house, also known as the dewpoint, condensation can form leading damp issues. The dewpoint is found in the outer 1/3 of a solid wall. However, if an EWI system is applied this point is automatically moved to the outside of the building eliminating any risk of condensation forming.

• Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential and when combined with an EWI system is a great way of preventing damp in a building. EWI can help to improve ventilation by providing channels for air to flow through the walls. This can help to reduce the risk of moisture build-up and damp.

• Water Ingress: EWI provides a barrier from the external elements of both wind and rain, protecting the internal structure and fabric of the building.

• Durability: EWI is made from high-quality materials that are resistant to the elements and can withstand the wear and tear of daily life. This means that it can provide long-lasting protection for your building and prevent damp from occurring over time.

In conclusion, EWI is an effective way to protect a building from damp. It provides a barrier against moisture, improves airtightness, and when combined with ventilation offers the complete solution for any condensation/damp issues. EWI is also a durable solution that can provide long-lasting protection for your building.

Should you require any further information regarding EWI, the suitability of your property or require contact details of a Licata approved contractor. Please do not hesitate to contact us.

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