There are an estimated 7.75 million uninsulated homes with solid walls in the UK which could be costing homeowners more to heat, according to new research.
While solid walled properties (solid stone or brick properties typically built before the 20th century) are generally more expensive to insulate, insulating the internal walls can have a big impact on your heating bills.
(MORE: Internal Wall Insulation)
But many homeowners are reportedly reluctant to install insulation in their solid walled properties, with cost most likely a determining factor.
AMA Research has published a new review, Building Insulation Products Market Report, which reveals that just under eight million homes with solid walls are without insulation.
The benefits of insulation need to be better publicised, AMA Research says, and while the building insulation market grew by 3% in 2018, the authors of the report have warned that more government funding for new schemes is required to support retrofitted installation.
Cost Benefits of Insulation
Those planning on renovating a house in 2020 can save up to £445 on annual heating bills (according to the Energy Saving Trust) by adding either internal or external insulation. When it comes to retrofit, internal wall insulation is an easier and cheaper option.
(MORE: Internal Walls: Stud or Solid?)
For those concerned about the cost of insulating their solid wall home, it is a common misconception that skimping on the thickness of insulation will reduce the overall cost. But, in reality, the labour cost will remain largely the same (approximately 60% of the overall cost) whatever thickness of insulation you use.
Instead, it is the type of insulation used and the condition of the existing wall that are most likely to affect the cost.
Ultimately, retrofitting internal wall insulation needs to be thought through properly and you should consult with professionals in order to choose the right approach for your home.