External wall insulation is a great way to make your home energy efficient. It helps keep the house warm in winter and cool in summer. By adding external wall insulation outside of your house, you can reduce energy bills and make your home more comfortable.
However, every home improvement project comes with costs. The total cost can vary depending on different factors. These factors can include location, type of material, and labor cost.
We’ll break down the different types of external wall insulation cost and the materials used. Also, estimate external wall insulation costs according to your needs and requirements.
What Is External Wall Insulation?
External wall insulation is a process of adding a layer to the outside of any house or building. It is a way to improve building warmth and coolness. The external insulation covers your house with a protective layer such as render or cladding. This keeps the house warm in winter and cool in summer. Insulation also gives your house a neat and clear look. It’s a good option if your house has solid walls that don’t have any built-in insulation, and it can help save energy and reduce heating bills.
External Wall Insulation Cost
The external wall insulation cost can range between $5 to $11 per sq ft. A standard house consists of 1,500-2,000 sq ft. The cost of external wall insulation of a standard building or house of 2000 sq ft can range between $10,000 and $22,000. This price depends on the materials used, the complexity of the installation, and labor costs. On average, you can expect to pay around $16,000 for a typical installation.
For a more exact range, you should examine the size of your house with all the other factors discussed below. It will help you to plan efficiently before starting the project.
Installing New Insulation
There can be two ways to insulate your house or building to protect it from outside weather. Replacing existing insulation and Installing new insulation.
If your house is not yet protected with great external insulation, it is a good idea to add new insulation in the outside walls of the house. External wall insulation will make your house energy-efficient. It reduces the electricity bill because you do not need technology to keep your house warm or cool.
The average cost to install new external wall insulation can vary between $5 and $11 per square foot. This cost can increase according to the materials and requirements.
Removing and Replacing Existing Insulation
Replacing old insulation is necessary if it is damaged. The process involves removing the existing insulation and installing a new layer to protect the house. It can cost more than installing a new one because of the extra work needed to remove the existing layer. The average cost for this is usually between $6 and $13 per square foot depending on the labor involved.
Types of External Wall Insulation
1. Insulation or Foam Boards
Insulation or foam boards are popular for external wall insulation. They are lightweight and easy to install. They are thick, sturdy foam sheets that you stick to the outside of your walls.
They’re like cozy blankets for your house, keeping the heat in during winter and the cool air in during summer. They come in different types, like polystyrene and mineral wool, each with its strengths and benefits.
Cost: The cost for insulation of foam boards ranges from $5 to $9 per square foot.
2. Render Systems
Render systems involve applying a thick layer of protective material, like cement or lime, over insulation. They are like fancy coat of paint that goes on top of the insulation boards. You can choose from different colors and textures to match your style.
Cost: Render systems typically cost between $8 and $12 per square foot.
3. External Insulation Composite Systems (EICS)
External Insulation Composite Systems (EICS) combine insulation boards with a layer of render or cladding. This creates a strong, durable barrier that improves insulation and protects the home from the elements. It’s a ready-made process instead of mixing and matching different pieces. EICS is a popular choice because it combines the benefits of both insulation and protection in one system.
Cost: EICS usually costs between $9 and $14 per square foot.
4. Cladding
Cladding is another option for external wall insulation. It involves attaching materials like wood, metal, or plastic to the outside of the home. Cladding not only improves insulation but also gives the house a stylish appearance. It comes in many designs, so you can choose one that matches your home’s look while also making it more energy-efficient.
Cost: Cladding can range from $10 to $15 per square foot.
Different Materials Used in the Exterior Wall Insulation
Different materials that are helpful to insulate your house from the outside are the following:
Material | Features | Cost Per Sq Ft |
Polystyrene |
|
$5 to $9 |
Mineral Wool |
|
$7 to $11 |
Thin-Coat Render |
|
$8 to $12 |
Silicone Resin Render | repels dirt and grime, keeping the walls clean over time | $9 to $14 |
Timber |
|
$10 to $15 |
Metal | Requires low maintenance | $12 to $18 |
Labor Cost for External Wall Insulation
The labor cost for installing an external wall insulation can vary with different factors. It includes the complexity of the process, the location, and the type of insulation used. On average, labor cost vary from $3 to $7 per sq ft. Skilled specialists ensure that the insulation is established successfully. It improves energy efficiency and protects your home from weather conditions. Hiring skilled workers can save time and reduce the threat of mistakes throughout the process.
Conclusion
The external wall insulation cost can range between $5 to $11 per sq ft. External wall insulation make your house energy-efficient. It keeps the house warm in winter and cool in summer, reducing the electricity bills.
Installing insulation outside of your house is a good idea for protection of your house. But it is recommended to plan before starting the process. Read about different materials and their cost to choose the perfect for you. Estimating the average cost in advance help to achieve your goal by staying in your budget.