DISPELLING THE MYTHS: INSULATED HOMES IN THE SUMMER

As the UK continues to bask in the longest heatwave since 1976, Wetherby Building Systems Managing Director, Bob Deane, sets the record straight on the performance of insulated homes in hot weather.

“As the prolonged hot weather has continued, we have heard many myths and stories from consumers and media alike regarding the performance of insulation in high temperatures. There is a common misconception that well insulated homes become hotter as the temperature outside rises, but this is simply not true.

“The way insulation works is very simple; as well as keeping heat in during colder weather, it also keeps heat out in hotter weather. Homes that have been fitted with external wall insulation are actually in a better position during hot spells, as the heat will not be able to transfer through the walls to heat the property, so these homes will in fact stay cooler.

“While the main driver for installing external wall insulation is to deliver warmer, more energy efficient homes over the winter, we so often hear from residents that are surprised at how cool their homes are staying in the summer.

“The majority of people in the UK are mistaken about the way insulation works and it is crucial that the industry addresses this, with manufacturers, installers, contractors and trade associations across the insulation industry working together to communicate the correct facts about insulated homes.”