A Guide to Insulation Maintenance and Repair

Maintaining your property is a top priority for many homeowners, but one crucial aspect that often gets overlooked in insulation. Properly installed insulation that is well maintained plays a vital role in regulating temperature, reducing energy costs, preventing moisture-related issues, and ensuring your home is more energy efficient. But how do you know when it needs attention?

In this blog, we’ll share practical tips and advice for insulation maintenance and repair. From internal wall insulation to external wall insulation, we’ll help you ensure your insulation’s longevity and performance, keeping your home comfortable and energy efficient for years to come.

What is the typical lifespan of insulation?

The lifespan of your insulation will depend on the type of material you have. Some of the most common types and their lifespan include:

• Fibreglass and spray foam – these can typically last up to 80-100 years, making them both extremely durable.
• Cellulose – this type of insulation tends to degrade faster and has a lifespan of around 25-30 years.
• Mineral wool – this type sits somewhere in the middle of the previous two, offering reliable performance for decades.

The key to extending the lifespan of your insulation lies in ensuring it’s properly installed and you conduct regular upkeep. For example, loft insulation and roof space insulation are more vulnerable to moisture damage and pests. That’s why maintaining insulation can go a long way in ensuring it remains effective for its full lifespan.

Tips for maintaining external wall insulation

External wall insulation provides a multitude of benefits when it comes to energy efficiency, but proper care is essential for optimal performance. Here are some easy and practical tips for external wall insulation maintenance.

Conduct routine checks

Routinely checking your external wall insulation is important for keeping it in good condition. Some things to be aware of include signs of damage, like sagging, visible gaps, or stains for example. Be sure to pay particular attention to places where render might be penetrated, like boiler flue outlets or rainwater systems, and make sure there are no blockages or leaks.

Extreme weather conditions, like a storm or heavy rainfall, can compromise your external wall insulation and can potentially lead to moisture build-up or physical damage. Try and get into the habit of checking your insulation for irregularities, as spotting small issues early on can avoid costly repairs.

Check for pests or microorganisms too as these could also harm your insulation. Algae, for example, grows on surfaces exposed to water or dampness, causing degradation. A quick inspection goes a long way in supporting your external wall insulation’s durability and performance.

Ensure adequate ventilation to avoid moisture

Poor ventilation can lead to moisture build-up and this can damage your external wall insulation. Some ways you can ensure adequate airflow include regularly airing out rooms – especially areas with limited airflow – and using extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms for example.

Condensation can also be particularly problematic during colder months, but you can combat this by adding extra ventilation fixtures, such as vents or air bricks, to spaces that are prone to dampness.

Clean regularly to avoid mould and mildew

Regular cleaning of your external wall insulation is essential for preventing mould and mildew growth. You want to focus on areas with potential moisture buildup, such as roof spaces and around light fixtures. Be sure to only use a soft bristled brush when cleaning so you don’t damage any of the specialist render. 

Keeping your external wall insulation clean not only prevents mould, mildew and other microorganisms from forming, but also helps you maintain a polished look of your property, all while ensuring the longevity of your insulation.

Avoid propping or leaning objects against your insulation

External wall insulation is designed to work effectively without added strain or pressure. Physical damage, even small amounts, can lead to heat loss or reduced efficiency in your home. Over time, repeated stress on your external wall insulation can lead to a breakdown of the insulation layer.

That’s why you should avoid leaning objects like ladders (even those with protective ends), gardening tools, or any other heavy objects against the walls, as these can cause damage and compromise your insulation.

If you absolutely have to, spread the load with a batten wrapped in cloth before leaning items against your external wall. This will minimise the pressure and preserve the surface integrity.

Tips on maintaining internal wall insulation

Just like external wall insulation, internal wall insulation that is well looked after can ensure a lower carbon footprint and optimal energy efficiency. Below are some internal wall insulation maintenance tips to protect its effectiveness.

Keep an eye on any leaks

Leaks can wreak havoc on internal wall insulation, so it’s important you stay on top of them. If leaks are left untreated, it can hamper your insulation efficiency and potentially lead to higher energy costs as a direct result.

Roof leaks in particular often lead to sagging insulation and visible water stains on ceilings or walls, so be sure to inspect your roof space or loft insulation. If you spot any leaks, address them quickly to prevent widespread damage and pay close attention to common leak sites, like poorly sealed light fixtures.

Remember, spotting quick fixes prevent longer-term complications, like having to replace your insulation entirely.

Avoid condensation with proper ventilation

Just like leaks, condensation can also impact your internal wall insulation’s performance. However, with proper ventilation, it ensures moisture doesn’t settle in your insulation. Condensation in your rooms could be a signal that your insulation’s effectiveness might decline if you don’t address it.

One way you can combat this is to use extractor fans, or any other mechanical ventilation system to disperse moisture and ensure proper airflow in your rooms. You also want to try and maintain a comfortable and steady temperature in your home, especially during colder months so you don’t get damp walls or floors.

By creating balance between temperature and airflow, your internal wall insulation stays sturdy and efficient. 

Keep proper documentation

Documentation is the backbone of maintaining insulation, both external and internal. Trustmark-registered installers, like Eco Providers, will provide reliable documentation, such as certificates, warranties, and additional information about insulation materials, that simplifies any future upgrades or repairs you may need. It also offers proof of insulation to potential buyers, should you decide to sell your property in the future.

Tips for insulation repair

Repairing insulation is an inevitable task when wear and tear occurs, and by keeping on top of insulation maintenance, you can quickly identify issues, keep repair costs to a minimum, and ensure energy efficiency remains intact.

There are some key signs that your insulation might be damaged including drafts, visible gaps in walls, or your insulation has started sagging. Some minor repairs, such as sealing gaps, can be attempted by skilled DIYers, however it’s always recommended to get professional help with any kind of insulation repairs, especially if you’re dealing with materials like fibreglass, spray foam, or old insulation that may contain asbestos.

By consulting a Trustmark-registered company for repairs, you can have peace of mind that you’re getting a high-quality service that ensures your insulation continues to remain energy efficient and works as intended.

As well as that, ensuring your insulation has been installed by certified professionals, like Eco Providers, gives confidence that it has been completed to the highest of standards, meaning less chances of costly repairs.

Speak to us about insulation installation

Insulation maintenance is crucial for keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient. With these tips, you can help to extend the lifespan of your insulation, prevent unnecessary damage, and save on energy costs. 

If you’re thinking about installing insulation in your property, get in touch with us today. At Eco Providers, we specialise in installing internal wall, cavity wall, loft, and room in roof insulation. All of our work is completed to the highest of standards and we provide you with a 25-year guarantee.

What’s more, you might be eligible for an insulation grant through the ECO4 scheme or the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS). You can check your eligibility online with our handy online checker tool, and if you are eligible, we’ll handle your application on your behalf.