Considering insulating your walls from the inside, but still not convinced? Find out what are the advantages and disadvantages of this solution.
Insulating walls from the inside still enjoys unflagging popularity. Accustomed to the comfort of using the simplest solutions, we turn away from the latest ones. Meanwhile, the use of internal insulation will reduce heat loss while maintaining an attractive appearance of the facade. It is recommended especially in the following cases
At the very beginning, moisture and thermal calculations should be made – based on them, the thickness of the insulation will be determined. It will be necessary to take into account the vapor barrier, which will prevent the penetration of water vapor between its layers. You also need to know the type of ventilation installed. Gravity has a different effect than mechanical, and each must be efficient enough to remove most of the water vapor. Materials such as polystyrene, mineral wool, mineral insulation boards are used for thermal insulation. The first of them is characterized by a high level of thermal insulation and resistance to moisture, but unfortunately it is flammable and prone to mechanical damage. But it is relatively easy to install. The second of the proposals stops the escape of heat equally well and has a low flammability. However, it requires installation of additional grates, compromises acoustics and is harmed by high moisture levels. Mineral insulation panels, on the other hand, are completely non-flammable, resistant to mechanical damage, transmit steam and retain heat in the room. They are also correspondingly more expensive.
The disadvantages of insulating from the inside certainly include the reduction in usable space. The ceiling and exterior walls will be in the unheated zone. They will be more exposed to adverse effects of low temperatures. It is also often necessary to tear out floor layers, which means additional work and… more expenses. Mistakes in the design can lead to damp patches, mould or fungus in the adjoining room. So you need to hire an experienced professional, because installing such insulation is not easy. Ideally, it should be an expert in insulation materials, a specialist with knowledge of building physics, an energy auditor or an architect familiar with energy-efficient home design.
Reduces heat loss and the amount of energy used to generate it. The room will also heat up much faster, because the heat will not disperse. As a result, heating bills will be reduced. Insulating the walls from the inside can be done on your own, so there is no need to get permission from the owners of houses or apartments adjacent to ours. It also does not require interference in the appearance of the external facade. The temperature will spread evenly throughout the room, which will prevent too much water vapor from collecting in one place, and thus also the formation of mold, mildew and moisture itself.
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