If you’re looking to improve your home’s energy efficiency, comfort or soundproofing the property, internal wall insulation is a great solution. While many homeowners focus on loft and cavity wall insulation, insulating internal walls can offer considerable benefits, especially in older properties where external wall insulation is not practical.
Whether you’re tackling a draughty room or wanting to find innovative ways to lower energy bills, in this guide, we’ll walk you through what internal wall insulation is, how it works and how you can install it most effectively.
Read on for more information…
What is internal wall insulation?
Internal wall insulation involves adding a layer of insulating material to the inner face of external walls – or even between rooms – as a way to reduce heat loss and improve thermal performance. It can be applied in different ways depending on the wall structure, budget and desired outcome.
Internal wall insulation is particularly useful for solid wall homes that lack a cavity to insulate. It’s also ideal for rooms where external insulation isn’t possible due to planning restrictions or access issues. Plus, this type of insulation is also known to improve acoustic performance, reducing noise between rooms and making it more appealing for semi-detached and terraced homes.
How does internal wall insulation work?
Insulating internal walls works by creating a thermal barrier between the heated air inside your home and the colder surface of the wall. When installed properly, insulation slows the transfer of heat through the wall, keeping rooms warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Depending on your insulation choice, the material can also:
- Block or absorb sound waves to improve soundproofing
- Manage internal moisture when combined with vapour barriers
- Provide an additional surface for decorating if insulation boards are used
However, it’s essential that internal insulation is always installed correctly to prevent problems with condensation, thermal bridging or damaging the structure.
Different types of internal wall insulation
There are several materials that can be used for internal wall insulation. The right choice will depend on your budget, wall type and insulation goals.
Mineral wool
Mineral wool is a fibrous material that is known for its excellent thermal and acoustic performance. Usually, it is installed in stud wall systems, and it may require a vapour barrier to prevent condensation.
Rigid foam
Foam insulation boards such as expanded polystyrene offer high thermal resistance in thinner layers. These are often fixed directly to the wall and provide a continuous layer of insulation.
Natural fibre
Materials such as sheep’s wool, hemp or wood fibre are the most environmentally friendly insulation choices. They are perfect for older buildings as they are more breathable and can control moisture effectively.
Rigid boards
This high-performance option combines low conductivity with excellent thermal insulation properties.
Benefits of internal wall insulation
Investing in internal wall insulation brings multiple advantages for homeowners in the UK. This includes:
- Lower heating bills: By reducing heat loss through walls, insulation makes it easier to keep your home warm without having to crank up the thermostat.
- Improved comfort: Insulated walls help maintain a consistent indoor temperature, eliminating cold spots and draughts.
- Soundproofing: Adding insulation between rooms or external walls helps to reduce noise and make your home more peaceful.
- Moisture control: When paired with vapour barriers or breathable materials, insulation can help manage internal moisture and prevent condensation.
- Energy efficiency: Improved insulation can boost your home’s EPC rating, making it more attractive to buyers.
How to insulate internal walls
Ready to insulate your internal walls? Here’s a simple guide that will help you complete the process with ease.
Choose the method
Decide what insulation method is best for your home. Select one of the following options:
- Fix insulated plasterboard directly to the wall using adhesive or mechanical fixings.
- Build a batten on the wall and place the insulation between the battens.
- Construct a freestanding stud wall with insulation in the cavity.
Each method will vary in cost, wall thickness and insulation performance, so make sure you spend some time considering all the options.
Gather equipment
Now, gather the materials and tools for the job. This will typically include:
- Insulation materials
- Fixings (like adhesive, screws and insulation plugs)
- Timber battens or metal studs (if framing)
- Vapour barrier (optional)
- Plasterboard
- Sealant
- Knife or saw
- Measuring tape
- Safety equipment like goggles and gloves
Prepare the wall
Before you start, make sure to clean the wall thoroughly and repair any cracks or damp areas. Ensure the surface is dry and structurally sound, and treat any mould or rising damp before insulating.
Measure walls
Measure the height and width of the wall. Mark out the location of battens or fixings. Plan around obstacles such as plug sockets or light switches.
Cut insulation
Using a sharp knife or an insulation saw, cut your material to fit neatly between battens or across the wall surface. Ensure a snug fit to minimise any gaps.
Install insulation
Now, it’s time to install your chosen insulation.
For direct-fixed boards
- Apply the adhesive or mechanical fixings as specified by the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Press the boards firmly onto the wall.
- Seal all joins with insulation tape or sealant.
For framed systems
- Fix battens or metal studs on the wall, spacing them to fit your insulation
- Slot insulation between the battens
- Fix plasterboard on top of the battens using screws
Seal gaps
Use expanding foam or insulation sealant to fill small gaps. This prevents cold air leaks and keeps thermal performance high.
Use a vapour barrier (optional)
A vapour control layer may be needed on the warm side of the insulation to prevent condensation. Fix it behind plasterboard using staples and tape the joints securely.
Paint or wallpaper the surface
Once the plasterboard is fixed and joints are filled, the surface can be painted, wallpapered or tiled. For insulated plasterboard, treat the surface as you would any wall.
Final Thoughts
Insulating your home’s internal walls is a smart and cost-effective way to boost your home’s energy efficiency. Whether you’re working with older walls or upgrading room partitions, the right insulation can make all the difference.
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