INSULATION
A BREATH OF FRESH AIR
BMJ investigates why EWI matters for merchants T
he construction industry is currently facing a two-pronged challenge: rising energy costs and a growing demand for more sustainable building solutions. Merchants’ customers are also increasingly embracing breathable external wall insulation (EWI) for new builds, upgrades and renovations – and for good reason. Breathable EWI allows moisture to escape, preventing dampness and mould whilst providing a platform for striking, impactful design.
Matthew Woodhams, technical specification manager at Baumit, explains that the “breathability” of building materials refers to the ability of moisture to pass through walls without becoming trapped within them. “Imagine a building as a living organism,” he says. “It needs to breathe. Daily activities like cooking and showering naturally create moisture vapour within a building. “If a building’s insulation materials slow down the escape of moisture, or are non- breathable, they can inhibit the ability of moisture to escape from the building fabric.” This can lead to a multitude of problems, including: increased energy consumption, because damp buildings need more energy to heat them, condensation and mould growth and poor indoor air quality, wherein mould spores and other byproducts can negatively impact occupants’ health. Woodhams says that EWI acts as a thermal barrier, significantly reducing heat loss from buildings, which
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in turn helps to lower energy bills, adding the caveat that, while this benefit alone is significant, choosing breathable EWI systems is crucial.
“Breathable External Wall Insulation (EWI) systems are designed to encourage the interaction of moisture with the building fabric, ensuring it can travel unimpeded through the building’s structure, allowing vapour to escape,” he says.
“This relationship between moisture and insulation, particularly within solid walls, is paramount for the overall structural health and performance of the building.
“Breathable EWI offers property owners significantly improved energy efficiency, which, along with breathable render and plaster, prevents the issues mentioned above and contributes to a healthier and more energy- efficient building environment.”
An increasing number of properties also use breathable EWI for its potential to enhance the visual appeal of their buildings, he adds. “By offering high quality, energy-efficient and sustainable building solutions, merchants can increase sales and expand market reach. Breathable EWI systems cater for the growing demand for products that help to lower buildings’ carbon footprint and energy consumption, especially in the 8 million buildings that have solid walls and where cavity insulation is not an option.
“By offering cutting-edge solutions that promote healthy living and environmental sustainability, merchants can foster trust and gain a competitive edge. By embracing breathable EWI, merchants go beyond simply selling a product; they are investing in a future that prioritises energy efficiency, sustainability, and healthy living. This is a future that
aligns with growing industry demand and government regulations aimed at reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions.” Woodhams explains that additional factors like fire resistance, thermal conductivity, compatibility with the existing wall structure, and aesthetic options such as renders and facades will also play a significant role in why customers will ask for breathable EWI. Baumit’s mobile training centre offers merchants convenient, local training on EWI installation and best practices, which Woodhams says gives them the knowledge and skills to confidently advise customers on the benefits of EWI systems.
The mobile training centre is fitted out with space for practical demonstrations, meaning it provides hands-on application experience. Attendees have the convenience of learning about breathable EWI, render and plaster in their local area, which means less time is spent away from their business.
“We also offer continued support to all registered installers, ensuring access to expert advice and resources, strengthening the merchant’s position as a reliable and knowledgeable partner for their customers,” he says. BMJ
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net May 2024
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