Should I accept my free Cavity Wall Insulation?

frames1_uk

the surveyor chap says there are insulation blocks but there is still a cavity. The builders were Persimmon and I did buy from new. I might phone the builders tomorrow, see if I can get an answer from them. There have been 2 separate guys out though and both say there is a cavity to be filled.

frames1_uk

am reading the order sheet and it says under comments 'CAT ladder needed and thermalite blocks in, but ok to do'

David_Aldred

Hi - I cannot believe you are considering attempting to put full fill cavity wall insulation into a property that was designed to have a clear cavity within it and compliant with Building Regulations applicable in 2005 which as I do architectural drawings for Local Authority Planning & Building Control approval I can tell you will have been pretty rigorous for insulation requirements at the time of construction and typically 0.35 W/m²K which even now has only changed to 0.30 W/m²K. Attempting to install blown fibre insulation to properties that are already built has inherent limitations that could well imapct upon the level of unwanted dampness within the property and outweigh the suggested fuel savings. Just my opinion based upon looking into wall cavities for a living day in day out and entirely up to you at your own risk. Kindest regards David Aldred independent dampness and timber surveyor

frames1_uk

Thanks for your reply David. I think your reply probably seals the deal for me, ie no deal. I would imagine these government schemes are rather abused by installers.

I found all my original Persimmon paperwork last night. It has 3 options for walls, being 'full cavity', 'partial cavity', 'thermal brick', with the 3rd box being ticked for my house. I would have presumed in that case, there was no cavity? But according to the guys that came, there is a small cavity.

I just wish my living room was warmer, but being North facing with 3 outside walls, I guess it's just something I'll have to live with?

I'm going to cancel the installation.

Thanks again for everyones help.

cavtat

I would just like to add a comment regarding the Government /Warm Front Grant Scheme.

We had some insulation work carried out through them earlier this year and was very pleased with the work and also Warm Front.

Two weeks ago we couldn't get any hot water from our combi boiler (we know what the fault is) and so I telephoned Warm Front and asked for an inspection. I was informed that this could take up to 6 weeks (then an addditional wait for the actual repair).

As we cannot wait this length of time, we will have to make alternative arrangements.

Although this scheme helps people in need, this is where it falls down, so be warned of the waiting times.

frames1_uk

Yes, I also have a heating repair that is needed, I was told about 4-6 months. My hot water is stuck on permanently (control panel for heat and water is frozen) and also my hot water tank has a warning light on (the corrosion system). Both things I 'think' can wait, so hopefully they will last until the Warm Front chaps can come and rectify them.

frames1_uk

I just called the NHBC to try and find out if my walls should or should not have an unfilled cavity. First spoke to a helpful lady in claims, who passed me to another department and was told they could send me a form, it would cost me £57 if they hold this information, or free if they don't. !!!

A great help..... not

Primrose

Yes, holes have to be drilled which are about the size of a tangerine but a professional company will block them up afterwardsand should paint them over with a colouring which will match your bricks so that they cannot be noticed. You would have to look very carefully indeed to find the holes where our cavity wall insulation was pumped through. It's only because we know it was done that we know where to find the holes.

frames1_uk

I had a look at two neighbours houses tonight that I knew had had it done. As you say I wouldn't have known if I hadn't been looking.

I've changed my mind and have booked to have it done on 11th December.