Home Owners Warned Over Cavity Wall Insulation Problems

Home Owners Warned Over Cavity Wall Insulation Problems

The Property Care Association has seen a significant increase in the number of complaints from the public, who have find that dampness and decay can cause potential structural damage to their properties.

Steve Hodgson, General Manager of the PCA, said: "We have heard an increasing number of complaints about timber decay and dampness in homes following the installation of cavity wall insulation.

"It is important therefore that our association members and householders are alerted to the potential problems associated with cavity wall insulation and consider its presence during the investigation of dampness and wall tie failure."

The PCA has compiled a checklist of faults for home owners to look out for:

Blocked vents

The maintenance of good ventilation is essential. Without it, timber will decay. Ensure that existing sub floor vents do not become clogged with wall insulation.

Cold spots

Cold spots can occur where there are missing sections of insulation within a wall. A common reason for this is the failure to install cavity brushes correctly.

This allows insulation material to move from the subject property to the neighbouring semi-detached or terraced property, leaving unfilled voids in the subject property.

The uninsulated voids are colder than the surrounding areas and are more susceptible to condensation.

Water Penetration

Cavity wall insulation is designed to prevent moisture, however, this can fail. Incidents have occurred where the insulation has become so compacted that water can soak through it.

Accelerated Cavity Wall Tie Failures

Following the installation of cavity wall insulation, there can be an increase in the temperature differentials between the internal wall and the steel wall tie.

Condensation is more likely to occur on the cold steel wall tie, accelerating problems with corrosion.

ENDS

Notes To Editors

The PCA is the UK trade body representing property professionals working in the areas of structural repair, damp proofing, damp control, timber preservation, structural waterproofing and flood remediation, flood restoration. The Association is a member of TrustMark the scheme supported by the Government, to help property owners find reliable and trustworthy tradespeople to make home improvements.

The PCA incorporates the British Wood Preserving and Damp-proofing Association (BWPDA), which has been in formation for more than 75 years.

To find a PCA member log on to http://www.property-care.org and select the Find A Member' service.

Press release issued by Shepherd PR Limited, on behalf of the Property Care Association, telephone 01538308685, mobile 07985129315.

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