Case Study: Revitalizing Jo’s Historic Cottage with External Wall Insulation

Introduction We recently had the pleasure of transforming a historic cottage for our client, Jo. Despite moving into a newly renovated property, Jo quickly discovered that her home was cold, damp, and plagued by mould. This case study details how our external wall insulation solution dramatically improved her living conditions.

The Challenge Jo’s charming 200-year-old cottage was initially appealing, but it soon became evident that there were significant issues:

• The walls were damp and mouldy.
• The house had a persistent musty odour.
• The exterior render was deteriorating, posing a safety hazard.

See why is my house so cold? and impacts of having sand and cement on your older home.

Jo tried using dehumidifiers to combat the dampness, but they had little effect. When Storm Babet struck in late 2023, large sections of the render fell off, fortunately without causing any injuries.

Our Solution Recognizing the urgent need for intervention, we began work in early 2024. Our approach was comprehensive and sensitive to the historic nature of the cottage:

• Render Removal: We started by safely removing the failing render. This allowed the underlying brickwork to dry out, immediately improving the indoor air quality.

• Mineral Fibre Insulation: Given the age of the building, we chose mineral fibre insulation to ensure the structure could breathe while providing effective thermal insulation. See why we chose mineral fibre.
• Ventilation Improvement: With the insulation in place, Jo no longer needed dehumidifiers. Instead, she invested in fans to maintain air circulation, enhancing the warmth and comfort of her home.

The Transformation The results were remarkable. As the project progressed, the cottage underwent a dramatic transformation:

• The damp and mouldy smell dissipated.
• The indoor temperature became more stable and comfortable.
• The exterior of the cottage was rejuvenated, blending historic charm with a refreshed appearance.

Outcome By the end of the project, Jo’s cottage not only looked new but also felt significantly more comfortable and healthier. Jo was delighted with the transformation, and her satisfaction is a testament to the effectiveness of our external wall insulation solution.

Conclusion This project showcases our ability to address complex issues in older properties, ensuring they remain beautiful and functional for years to come. If you have a property facing similar challenges, our team is ready to help bring it back to life. A home that will keep you warm in winter and cool in summer.

If you are smelling mould and have damp inside maybe external wall insulation would help you to have a warmer and more comfortable home.  Give us a call and lets start your journey.