Building insulation has become increasingly important in today's world as energy prices continue to rise. External wall insulation (EWI) systems provide a cost effective way to improve the energy efficiency of existing buildings and help save on mounting energy costs. In this article, we will explore the various benefits of EWI systems, how they work, common materials used, and more.

What is an External Wall Insulation System?
An external wall insulation system, also known as external insulation and finish system (EIFS), involves attaching rigid insulation boards to the external surface of walls and finishing them with a reinforcing layer, basecoat and decorative topcoat. This creates a continuous layer of insulation around the entire building envelope. Various types of insulation materials like mineral wool, expanded polystyrene (EPS), extruded polystyrene (XPS) etc. can be used between the structural walls and external finishes.

Benefits of External Wall Insulation
External Wall Insulation Board offers numerous benefits for both residential and commercial buildings:

Energy Efficiency
- Provides effective thermal insulation which reduces heat transfer through walls both in summer and winter. This significantly lowers energy consumption for heating and cooling.

- Insulation boards have high insulation values making buildings more energy efficient and helping owners save on long term energy costs.

Thermal Comfort
- Keeps indoor temperatures stable and prevents walls from acting as thermal bridges during temperature fluctuations outside. This improves thermal comfort inside buildings.

Moisture Resistance
- Creates a water resistant barrier which protects structural walls from external moisture, rain and dampness. Helps prevent mold growth and material degradation.

Acoustic Performance
- Increases sound insulation properties of external walls. Reduces noise transmission from outside areas like streets.

Fire Resistance
- Non-combustible insulation materials increase fire safety and resistance of buildings. Some EWI systems achieve Euroclass A1 or A2 fire ratings.

Aesthetics and Durability
- Wide variety of stylish finishes are available. Gives a uniform, seamless appearance. Insulation stays effective for 50+ years with minimum maintenance required.

Environmental Benefits
- Reduces carbon footprint by decreasing energy usage. Many materials like mineral wool are recyclable at end of life.

Cost Effectiveness
- EWI retrofits provide high returns on investment through energy cost savings over the long run. Cheaper than total wall replacement.

Common EWI Materials
Several types of insulation boards are used for external wall insulation systems:

Polystyrene (EPS/XPS)
- Lightweight rigid foam boards with high insulation performances. Hydrophobic and resistant to moisture. May require additional protection in exposed locations.

Mineral Wool
- Made of mineral fibers, non-combustible with high fire resistance. Vapour permeable with effective acoustics. Suitable for most climates.

Wood Fiber or Hemp-Lime Boards
- Renewable and environment-friendly. Good moisture management and breathability. Tend to be more expensive than mineral/polystyrene options.

Polyurethane/Polyisocyanurate Foam
- Spray or board applied. Provide highest insulation values in smallest thickness. Require special application and protection against impacts.

Installation Process
The installation of an external wall insulation system typically involves the following key steps:

1. Surface Preparation: Removal of any dirt, loose plaster, painting etc. Making good any structural defects.

2. Base Coat Application: An adhesive base coat is applied to the prepared surface to ensure firm bonding of insulation boards.

3. Board Installation: Insulation boards are mechanically fixed to walls with approved fixings at specified intervals and joints taped or filled.

4. Reinforcing Mesh: An alkali resistant glass fiber mesh is embedded into the second layer of adhesive to reinforce the system.

5. Basecoat Application: A final coat of reinforcing basecoat is troweled over the mesh for an even surface.

6. Prime + Decorative Finish: The dry basecoat is primed before applying a decorative silicon resin based finish paint/render.

Costs Involved
The total cost of installing an EWI system varies depending on the wall area, chosen materials, level of insulation, and specific project requirements. Some approximate costs:

- Materials cost is $15-30 per sqm for insulation boards, basecoats, finishes etc.

- Labor charges are $30-50 per sqm including scaffolding, installation and finishing works.

- Additional costs include design/consultancy, contractor profit margins, warranty etc.

- Typical project cost is $50-80 per sqm for average homes. Large buildings may be slightly cheaper per unit area.

- EWI pays back in 5-10 years through energy savings for most European climates. Grants may be available in some regions.

External wall insulation provides a highly effective way to enhance energy performance, comfort and protection of existing buildings. With new materials, installation techniques and financing options, EWI systems have become a very cost effective, viable solution for improving building envelopes. Their benefits have led to widespread adoption across both residential and commercial sectors globally. With growing focus on net zero goals and sustainability, the use of EWI is only expected increase in the future.

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