Will External Wall Insulation Stop Mould? - CS Damp Proofing

Mould is every homeowner’s worst nightmare. This pesky fungal spore can damage the structure and appearance of a home and is expensive to remove. Plus, it can also harm the health of the people living there. While there are many ways to damp-proof your home and prevent mould, one of the best methods is external wall insulation. 

In this article, we’ll answer the question: ‘Will external wall insulation stop mould?’ We’ll also share our top tips for keeping your home safe from mould on external walls. This is especially important during the colder months when dampness is most common. 

What Is External Wall Insulation?

Insulation for external walls involves adding an extra layer to the outside of a building, creating a gap between the brick or stone wall and the external insulation boards. This cavity is then filled with insulating materials to help improve thermal efficiency. 

While it can be a significant investment, the benefits of external wall insulation are worth it. It’s waterproof and provides a robust barrier against cold temperatures and moisture – key factors in preventing mould growth and maintaining a healthy home. 

How Does External Wall Insulation Stop Mould?

  1. Preventing Condensation

The temperature-regulating properties of external wall insulation play a key role in preventing mould caused by condensation. Condensation occurs when water vapour turns to liquid upon contact with a cold surface. This liquid can settle on walls, creating the perfect conditions for mould to grow. 

External wall insulation acts as a barrier, helping to maintain a steady indoor temperature. By keeping heat inside and cold air out, insulation reduces the number of cool surfaces or temperature differences where condensation – and ultimately mould – tends to form.

2. Blocking Moisture from Penetrating Damp or Rising Damp

Mould can also result from penetrating and rising damp, where water seeps into walls from outside. External wall insulation provides a waterproof layer, preventing moisture from entering the building. Without this moisture, mould cannot develop or spread within the masonry or timbers of your home. 

However, condensation is not the only source of mould. Mould can also be the result of penetrating and rising damp, whereby water seeps into walls from the outside. With the addition of a waterproof layer on the exterior of your home, the water can no longer enter the building. Mould needs this moisture in order to develop and spread. If water can’t get inside the walls or into the masonry and timbers, then mould will find it difficult to survive without the moisture it needs.

Is External Wall Insulation Worth the Cost? 

While external wall insulation costs can be daunting at first, the benefits far outweigh the expense. It offers temperature regulation and damp proofing, making it a multipurpose solution for preventing mould and reducing energy bills. Over time, this investment will pay for itself by lowering maintenance and repair costs and boosting your home’s energy efficiency. 

Contact CS Damp Proofing Today

In conclusion, will external wall insulation stop mould? The answer is a resounding yes! To reap the full benefits of external wall insulation, it’s important to work with experienced professionals. Poorly installed insulation can aggravate damp and moul issues, leading to costly and time-consuming repairs. 

Contact our expert team today to learn more about external wall insulation and other effective damp-proofing solutions for keeping mould at bay in your home.