Your Questions About External Wall Insulation — Answered

Q: How do I know if my property is suitable for external wall insulation?

A: Almost every home can benefit — whether it’s solid wall, cavity wall, brick or block. With the right system, we can insulate and transform your property, cutting bills and boosting comfort.

The main exceptions are homes in conservation areas or listed buildings, where special permissions may apply. That’s why we always start with a quick, free survey (no obligation) to confirm the best solution for your property

Q: How long does installation take?

A: On average, most projects take just a couple of weeks to complete. The exact timescale depends on the size of your property and the complexity of the work — larger homes or bespoke finishes may take a little longer.

What you can rely on is a clear schedule agreed in advance and a process designed to keep disruption to a minimum.

Q: Do I need planning permission?

A: In most cases, you don’t need planning permission to install external wall insulation. The main exceptions are if your home is a listed building or in a conservation area, where special rules may apply.

For the majority of properties, it’s a straightforward process — and we’ll always advise you if permissions are required before any work begins.

Q: Will I need to move out during the works?

A: No, you can stay at home while the work is done. Everything happens on the outside, so there’s no need to move out. You’ll see scaffolding and hear some drilling, but inside your home life carries on as normal

Q: What happens to pipes and cables?

A: We carefully move and refit pipes and cables so they sit neatly on top of the new insulation. As soon as they’re adjusted, they work as normal — even while the installation is still going on. The only exception is surface‑mounted fixtures, which we re‑fix once the insulation and finish are complete.

Q: How long will my external wall insulation last?

A: When installed correctly, external wall insulation is designed to last decades — typically 25 years or more. The system is built to withstand the weather, protect your walls, and keep your home warmer year after year. With proper maintenance — such as occasional cleaning and checking for any damage — your insulation will continue to perform and protect your property long into the future.

Q: What finishes and colours can I choose?

A: External wall insulation comes with a wide range of finishes and colours to suit your home. You can choose from smooth or textured renders, brick‑effect finishes, or modern coloured coatings. The colour palette is extensive — from classic whites and neutrals to bold contemporary shades — so you can match your property’s character or give it a fresh new look. We’ll guide you through the options and provide samples, so you can see how different finishes and colours will look before making a decision

Q: Will EWI reduce noise from outside?

A: Yes — external wall insulation can help to reduce outside noise, because the added insulation layer makes your walls thicker and more solid. Many homeowners notice a quieter, more peaceful home once the system is installed.

Q: Does EWI add value to my property?

A: Yes — external wall insulation can add value to your property. By improving energy efficiency, lowering heating bills, and giving your home a fresh, modern appearance, it makes your property more attractive to buyers. Many homeowners find that EWI not only reduces running costs but also enhances kerb appeal — two key factors that can increase resale value.

Q: Can I combine EWI with other upgrades (windows, roof, solar)?

A: Yes — and it often makes sense to do so. Many people choose to fit new windows, improve the roof, or add solar panels at the same time, because it saves time and avoids extra disruption. If you’re planning new windows, they can be set in line with the insulation, which reduces thermal bridging and makes your EWI perform even better

Q: What insulation should i choice EPS or Rockwool?

A: Both materials are widely used in external wall insulation systems. EPS offers excellent thermal performance at a lower cost, while Mineral Wool provides superior fire resistance and acoustic performance. Read our full comparison of EPS vs Mineral Wool