Is insulating render a viable option to enhance your home's thermal insulation, as suggested by experts? Here's what they have to share.
Improve Your Property's Energy Efficiency: External Wall Insulation and Insulating Render
Boosting your property's thermal performance during a renovation project can significantly reduce energy bills. If your home has solid walls, you may need to consider external wall insulation methods. Among these options is insulating render, a solution that provides both insulation and a decorative finish.
Insulating render differs from insulated render systems, which are made up of insulation boards fixed to the exterior of the property. Instead, insulating render incorporates lightweight aggregates and ceramic microspheres to form air bubbles that prevent heat loss.
Products like ProofShield's ThermoSilicone Render System and Cornerstone's Insulating Render offer adequate insulation and a clean, modern finish. The latter, designed as a lightweight fibred base layer for external applications, improves the U-value (a measure of heat loss) of a solid wall by 50% or more with a 50mm application[1].
Applying insulating render follows the same process as conventional render - a thermal base layer of 2-3cm is applied, and it is finished with a through-coloured, weatherproof topcoat. It's essential to ensure the walls are structurally sound and free from damp before applying render.
Cost-wise, the total cost for installing insulating render, including materials and labor, is typically around £60 per square meter[1]. although slightly higher than non-insulating render systems in terms of material costs, the installation costs remain similar[1].
Insulating render is a suitable solution for many homes requiring both thermal and aesthetic improvements, though there are exceptions. For instance, homes with damp problems should address the underlying causes before applying any render. In older buildings, it's crucial to consider breathability as wrapping them in airtight insulation layers can lead to issues like mould growth[2].
Before employing renderers, ensure their work meets high standards, as an improperly applied layer of render can detract from the appearance of your property[3]. In conservation areas or designated zones, you may need to apply for planning permission to re-render external walls, and Building Regulations approval may also be required, depending on the extent of the work[3].
References:
[1] Cornerstone. "Insulating Render." Accessed March 20, 2023. https://www.cornerstonecraftproducts.co.uk/insulating-render
[2] Pyke, Andy. Technical Director, ProofShield. Personal communication, March 15, 2023.
[3] Foster, Rebecca. "Boosting Your Home's Kerb Appeal: Render Your House." Accessed March 20, 2023. https://www.houzz.co.uk/ideabooks/48489729/list/boosting-your-homes-kerb-appeal-render-your-house
Author's Bio:
Rebecca Foster is a UK-based journalist specializing in property and interiors. Starting her career in Bangkok and contributing to multiple home and lifestyle publications in Southeast Asia, she relocated to London in 2015 to write for leading self-build and home renovation magazines. In 2017, she decided to combine her passion for journalism with teaching yoga.
- Embracing sustainable living, insulating render is an excellent choice for a home renovation project that focuses on external wall insulation, as it offers both energy-saving capabilities and a stylish, modern finish.
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