With the title of this blog, do not be deceived into thinking the purpose is to encourage you to install an external insulation by yourself. Even as a competent DIYer, it’s not advisable to buy a couple of materials and start slapping it into the wall hoping for the best outcome. External insulation is by no means a DIY job and without the proper training and experience, it can easily turn out disastrous resulting in loss of time, effort and money in such a valuable project. This blog, however, will give you a great insight on how the installation process works and help maximize knowledge ensuring you do not spend more than necessary.
External Insulation Installation
lRender Test
• This is done to ensure the existing render is good enough for insulation support.
• If positive, the insulation can be applied directly onto it.
• If negative, ensure removal of the old render before fitting the insulation.
lPipework Adjustment & Removal
• Remove all pipework prior to insulation fitting
• Install temporary downpipes to ensure water is not wasted and everything continue to function normally during the insulation fitting process.
lWindow Protection
• Protect the window with a protective layer or film.
lStarter Track Fitting
• Determine level you want the insulation to start (height).
• Fit the aluminium start track or carrier tray at the identified level.
lInsulation Boards Fitting
• Apply a layer of adhesive to the board and glue them to the wall in a staggered pattern.
• Cut to fit round all obstructions and windows.
• File off the edge of the board where necessary using a rasp upon successful fitting of the boards
lMechanical Fixing Inclusion
• Hammer around 10 fixings per square metre into the board.
• This is to secure the insulation boards.
lBeading Fitting
• Add corner beads and stop beads to ensure the insulation is secure and to prevent it from making contact with other materials.
lReinforcing Mesh & Render Addition
• Apply two layers of strengthening properties and between the two layers of render, include a fibre glass mesh.
lPrimer Application
• Paint on the primer
lFinal Render Application
• Choose your most preferred texture and colour as this will be the last coating of the installation process.
lPipework Re-installation
• Re-install all detached pipework at the start of the installation process.