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Many UK homes, especially those built before the 1920s, were constructed with solid brick walls. In fact, over 8 million homes in the UK feature this type of construction. For centuries, solid brick was the standard building method, long before cavity walls became the norm in the 1920s.
At the time, builders prioritised durability and structural strength to withstand the UK’s mild but damp climate. Bricks were chosen for their ability to resist rain and their long-lasting nature. However, energy efficiency wasn’t a consideration back then, and insulating homes wasn’t a priority. This is why many solid brick walls either have no cavity or only a very narrow one, which makes them unsuitable for cavity wall insulation.
In this blog, we’ll explore the challenges of insulating solid brick homes and explain how external wall insulation provides a practical and effective solution for improving energy efficiency.
Solid brick walls are constructed using a single layer of bricks, without the air gap or cavities. These walls are recognisable by their distinctive brick pattern, where both the long and short sides of the bricks are visible. This construction method was standard in homes built before the 1920s, before cavity walls became the norm.
The lack of an insulating air gap in solid walls means they allow more heat to escape through the walls of a building, much like wearing a single layer of clothing on a cold day. Cavity walls, introduced post-1920s, offered better thermal performance by incorporating an air gap to reduce heat transfer, making them more energy-efficient.
Although solid brick homes have stood the test of time, their energy efficiency often falls short of modern standards. These walls are a major source of heat loss, making them harder to heat and more expensive to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. During winter, the heat escapes faster than it can be replaced, leading to higher energy bills and less comfort for occupants.
Fortunately, the energy performance of solid brick homes can be significantly improved. External wall insulation (EWI) is a highly effective retrofit solution for solid walls, drastically reducing heat loss while maintaining the beauty and character of older properties. EWI can make these homes warmer, more energy-efficient, and more cost-effective to heat.
To identify whether your property has solid walls, check the thickness of the external walls. Solid brick walls are usually around the length of a brick plus additional plaster or render, measuring roughly 230mm in total. Additionally, the brickwork pattern can be a giveaway—look for alternating bricks laid with their shorter edge facing outward.
Absolutely! Insulating solid walls is an excellent way to make your home more comfortable while reducing heating costs. Homeowners have the option of insulating solid walls either internally or externally. However, external wall insulation is often the preferred choice as it tends to be less disruptive, faster to install, and doesn't take up valuable indoor space.
Beyond improving your home's thermal efficiency, external wall insulation also offers additional benefits. It can enhance your property's appearance with a fresh, modern facade and help reduce external noise, creating a quieter home away from the hustle and bustle. It's a practical solution for improving both comfort and energy efficiency in solid wall properties.
External wall insulation (EWI) is a system that involves adding a layer of insulating material to the exterior walls of a building to improve energy efficiency. Also referred to as external solid wall insulation, this method is non-invasive, as all the work is carried out on the building's exterior, causing minimal disruption to the interior of your home.
Solid brick homes, while full of beauty and character, often come with unique challenges such as heat loss, damp issues, and energy inefficiency. External wall insulation offers an effective solution to these problems by improving thermal performance, reducing heating costs, and enhancing comfort. Beyond the practical benefits, EWI can also transform the appearance of your home, giving it a fresh, modern facade while preserving its historic character.
If you're considering upgrading your solid brick home with EWI, it’s essential to work with professionals who understand the unique requirements of these properties. Not only will this ensure proper installation, but it will also maximise the long-term benefits of your investment.
Ready to make your home more energy-efficient and comfortable? Contact us today for expert advice and a free, no-obligation quote!
