top of page

FAQs
As the leading experts in External Wall Insulation (EWI) and grants across Ireland, we answer some of your most commonly asked questions here. Still have questions? Get in touch.
FAQs
External wall insulation is the best way to insulate your walls especially if your house is constructed of cavity blocks or mass concrete.
External Wall Insulation (EWI), which is also referred to as ETICS (External Thermal Insulation Composite Systems) is a method of insulating the outside walls of either a new or existing house. It involves fixing insulating materials such as expanded polystyrene slabs or mineral wool to the outer surface of the walls of a house, usually with a special adhesive and metal or plastic fixings. A base coat embedded with a reinforcing fiberglass mesh is applied to this insulation, and this is then covered with a final finishing render to provide weather resistance. Whilst external insulation is an expensive insulation solution, it can also resolve other issues, such as mould and damp, rain penetration, poor airtightness and frost damage, provided the product used is NSAI Agrément certified. This is also an excellent opportunity to give your home a new look.
Your home will heat up quicker and stay warmer for longer
By reducing heat loss through walls your heating bill will be reduced
Thermal efficiency of walls can be increased by 85%
Removal of cold bridges reduces the risk of condensation, damp and mould.
Interstitial condensation can be eliminated, irrespective of climate conditions
No loss of internal living space
Work can be carried out alongside other trades such as window replacement and re-roofing
Work is carried out to the outside walls, disruption to the household is minimised
Cover up existing unsightly render / finishes and cracks.
A weatherproof, attractive and generally maintenance-free new exterior is provided as part of the wall insulation
Improve your existing Building energy rating
Avail of the current government grants through Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI)
Protecting the planet: insulating your home is an eco-citizen act
external wall insulation is a great way to boost the efficiency and subsequent value of the property, bringing it in line with new-build standards while also giving it a facelift.
Insulating from the outside has a clear advantage over conventional insulation techniques like dry-lining wall insulation. By insulating from the outside and cutting thermal bridges, the entire building structure is protected from the cold and wet weather, which is not the case with internal insulation.
External Insulation is applied to the exterior walls of your house. You therefore do not lose any living space unlike Thermal Insulation by the Interior.
Interior insulation causes up to 7% loss of living space.
Most houses are eligible for a grant. Some people may be eligible to have works carried out for free. Here is a link to the grant sections of the Seai website https://www.seai.ie/grants/home-energy-grants/
New Building Regulations (Part L) require that after any alteration to a minimum of 25% of your home’s surface area, your home either achieves a minimum B2 BER rating or your heating system and attic insulation comply with the Building Regulation standards. To qualify for a grant, all works must be undertaken by an SEAI registered Contractor.
With the exception of timber frame houses most wall types are suitable for external wall insulation.
No. The work is done outside your home. Your family life is therefore not disturbed.
It takes about 2 to 3 weeks.
Yes, they reduce your energy bill.
However, the expected level of savings will depend in particular on the insulation performance of other sources of heat loss in your home (window, roof, etc.). You can reduce your energy expenditure by 40%. Each case being specific, it is difficult to say what the savings will be without making a serious energy diagnosis.
A Building Energy Rating (BER) certificate indicates your building's energy performance. It is similar to the energy label for household appliances.
The certificate rates your building on a scale of A-G. A-rated homes are the most energy efficient and will tend to have the lowest energy bills. G-rated are the least energy efficient.
Your BER is calculated through energy use for space and hot water heating, ventilation, and lighting.
The number of people likely to occupy a building is also taken in consideration. This is based on the average number of occupants in buildings of a similar size.
There is a 10 year Materials Warranty with the Ceresit /Ceretherm system. There is a 2 year Workmanship Warranty in accordance with the Better Energy Homes Scheme.
Yes, the walls will be thicker. The increase in the thickness will depend on the target u-value and the conductivity of the insulating materials used, and on the final render finish. Retrofits projects generally use 100mm, 120mm or 150mm insulation.
Greenland are certified and audited by NSAI. (Nsai registration no. IAB/E394).
We are registered contractors with the with SEAI who regularly conduct inspections on completed projects. Seai id 16631.
Greenland has internal Quality control systems in place. Our staff are experienced and highly trained. Our supervisors make sure all work is carried out to the highest standards but to be honest their job is easy because all staff know what’s expected of them and take great pride in their work. The attitude of quality comes from the top down and permeates the company.
We are members of the CIF.
External wall insulation involves applying a layer of insulating material to the exterior of a building, improving thermal efficiency and protecting the structure.
Our systems are designed to last over 25 years, offering long-term performance with minimal maintenance.
Yes, properly installed insulation can significantly reduce heat loss, leading to noticeable savings on energy costs.
Most properties can benefit from EWI, though we conduct a full assessment to determine suitability before installation.
Yes, our systems include modern finishes that enhance the overall look of your home.
Yes, various grants are available, and we assist you in navigating the application process.
bottom of page