The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme, aimed at improving the energy efficiency of homes in the UK, offers several types of insulation measures. This blog will explore the various types of insulation available under the ECO4 scheme, including Cavity Wall Insulation (CWI), Solid Wall Insulation (SWI), Loft Insulation, and more. Understanding these options can help homeowners make informed decisions about which insulation measures are best suited for their properties.

Cavity Wall Insulation (CWI)

Cavity Wall Insulation involves filling the gap between the two layers of a cavity wall with insulating material. This process significantly reduces heat loss and improves energy efficiency. There are different types of CWI measures based on the thermal conductivity of the insulating material used:

1. CWI_0.040: Suitable for general purposes with a thermal conductivity range of 0.035 to 0.045 W/mK.

2. CWI_0.033: A more efficient option with a thermal conductivity range of 0.029 to 0.034 W/mK.

3. CWI_0.027: The most efficient among the standard CWI types, with a thermal conductivity of less than 0.028 W/mK

Additionally, CWI can also be applied to party walls (walls that separate adjoining homes), further enhancing energy efficiency and reducing noise transmission between properties​.

Solid Wall Insulation (SWI)

Solid Wall Insulation is essential for homes with solid walls, which are typically found in older buildings. These walls can be insulated internally (Internal Wall Insulation, IWI) or externally (External Wall Insulation, EWI):

1. Internal Wall Insulation (IWI): Involves fixing insulation boards to the interior walls, which are then covered with plasterboard. This method is less disruptive externally but reduces the internal floor space.

2. External Wall Insulation (EWI): Involves applying insulation material to the exterior walls, which is then finished with a protective render or cladding. EWI is often more effective as it does not reduce internal space and provides additional weatherproofing​.

Both IWI and EWI are crucial for improving the thermal performance of solid walls, reducing energy consumption, and lowering heating bills.

Loft Insulation

Loft Insulation is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve a home's energy efficiency. Insulating the loft helps prevent heat from escaping through the roof, keeping the house warmer in winter and cooler in summer. The types of loft insulation include:

1. Pitched Roof Insulation: Suitable for sloped roofs, this involves laying rolls of insulation material between and over the joists.

2. Flat Roof Insulation: Involves adding a layer of insulation above or below the roof deck of a flat roof​.

3. Room-in-Roof Insulation: Ideal for loft conversions, it involves insulating the walls and ceiling of the loft room​.

Floor Insulation

Insulating the floors can also contribute significantly to reducing heat loss. There are different approaches depending on the type of floor:

1. Solid Floor Insulation: Involves adding a layer of rigid insulation on top of the existing solid floor.

2. Suspended Floor Insulation: Suitable for floors with a crawl space underneath, this method involves placing insulation between the floor joists​.

Hybrid Wall Insulation (HWI)

Hybrid Wall Insulation combines elements of both internal and external insulation methods. This approach can be particularly useful in properties where a mix of wall types exists or where specific architectural features need to be preserved. HWI ensures comprehensive insulation coverage, enhancing the overall thermal performance of the building​.

Draught Proofing and Glazing

In addition to wall and roof insulation, ECO4 also includes measures for draught proofing and upgrading window glazing. Draught proofing involves sealing gaps around doors, windows, and other openings to prevent cold air from entering and warm air from escaping. Upgrading to double or triple glazing windows can significantly reduce heat loss and improve acoustic insulation.

To find out more about government funded home heating schemes, visit the ECO4 page on the UK government website here.

you can also visit the Office for Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) website for further guidance here.

to see if you qualify in less than 27 second, use our eligibility checker here