Home/ Property Owner Support
Property Owner Support

Everything you need to get started

Whether you're thinking about rendering your home, looking for an installer or just want to see what's possible, you're in the right place. We've put together everything a property owner needs to make an informed decision.

What is EWI?

External Wall Insulation explained

External Wall Insulation, or EWI, is a system applied to the outside of your home that adds a layer of insulation to your external walls, then finishes with a render or decorative coating on top. Unlike cavity wall insulation, EWI works on solid walls and doesn't require drilling into your property.

The insulation board is fixed directly to your existing wall, a reinforced basecoat and mesh is applied over it, and finally a decorative render finish is applied to give your home a fresh, clean appearance. The whole system is typically 80 to 200mm thick depending on the level of insulation required.

EWI is one of the most effective ways to improve the energy efficiency of an older property. It reduces heat loss through the walls, helps eliminate cold spots and condensation, and can significantly reduce your heating bills, while also giving your home a completely new look.

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Reduced heating bills EWI can reduce heat loss through external walls by up to 40%, cutting your energy bills significantly over time.
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Works on solid walls Unlike cavity wall insulation, EWI is suitable for solid wall properties, including Victorian and Edwardian homes.
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Eliminates damp and condensation By keeping walls warmer, EWI eliminates the cold spots that cause condensation and damp on internal walls.
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Transforms the appearance of your home With a choice of over 1,000 render colours, EWI gives your home a completely fresh, modern look.
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Increases property value A higher EPC rating and improved appearance can increase the market value and appeal of your home.
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Improves sound insulation The added thickness of insulation also helps reduce noise from outside, which is particularly useful on busy roads.
Funding & Schemes

Government funding for external wall insulation

There are several government-backed schemes that may help cover the cost of EWI on your home. Eligibility varies by scheme and is subject to change, so we recommend checking directly with the relevant scheme for the most up to date information.

Great British Insulation Scheme

Provides funding for insulation improvements including EWI for homes with an EPC rating of D or below. Available to both owner-occupiers and private renters.

Check eligibility on GOV.UK →

ECO4 Scheme

The Energy Company Obligation scheme requires larger energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency improvements for eligible low-income households, including EWI.

Check eligibility on GOV.UK →

Local Authority Funding

Many local authorities run their own energy efficiency grant schemes, sometimes in addition to national programmes. Check with your local council for what's available in your area.

Find your local council →

Home Upgrade Grant

Funding available through local authorities for energy efficiency upgrades including EWI, targeted at low-income households in homes not connected to the gas grid.

Check eligibility on GOV.UK →
Please note: Government schemes and eligibility criteria change regularly. The information above is for general guidance only. Always check directly with the relevant scheme or your local authority for the most current information. Licata does not administer any government funding schemes and cannot advise on eligibility.
FAQs

Common questions from property owners

Can't find what you're looking for? Our team is happy to answer any questions you have about EWI, render systems or the installation process.

Ask our team
For a typical semi-detached or terraced house, EWI installation usually takes between 5 and 10 working days depending on the size of the property, the system being installed and weather conditions. Larger or more complex properties will take longer. Your installer will be able to give you a more accurate timeframe once they've assessed your property.
In most cases EWI falls under permitted development rights and does not require planning permission. However, there are exceptions. If your property is in a conservation area, is a listed building, or is part of a development with specific restrictions, you may need to apply. We recommend checking with your local planning authority before proceeding if you're unsure.
The cost of EWI varies significantly depending on the size of your property, the system chosen and the level of insulation required. As a rough guide, a typical semi-detached property might cost between £8,000 and £15,000. Government funding schemes may be available to help cover part or all of the cost depending on your circumstances. Get a quote from a Licata approved installer for an accurate price for your property.
EWI adds thickness to the outside of your walls, typically 80 to 200mm. On a terraced property this means the render will extend slightly further than your neighbour's wall at the boundary. Most installers handle this with a stop bead at the party wall junction. It is good practice to inform your neighbours before work begins, though you do not generally need their permission.
You should inform your home insurer before having EWI installed as it constitutes a structural alteration to your property. In most cases insurers are supportive of EWI as it can reduce the risk of damp and related damage. Some insurers may adjust your premium slightly. Always check with your insurer before work begins.
Most properties are suitable for EWI but a site survey is needed to confirm suitability. Key factors include the condition of the existing wall, the presence of any damp or structural issues that need resolving first, and any planning restrictions. A Licata approved installer will carry out a survey before commencing any work. Use our Find an Installer service to get a survey booked.
A correctly applied Licata silicone render system can be expected to last up to 25 years with minimal maintenance. The render is through-coloured so it will not fade, chip or peel like painted finishes. It is also resistant to algae, mould and weathering. Periodic cleaning with a low-pressure wash is all that is typically needed to keep the finish looking its best.

Still have questions? Talk to us.

Our team is happy to talk through your project, help you choose the right system and point you towards an approved installer in your area. Give us a call or send us a message and we'll get back to you quickly.

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Call your nearest branch Mon to Fri 7am to 5pm, Sat 8am to 12pm View all branch numbers →
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Technical enquiries technical@licataltd.co.uk