A Homeowner’s Guide to External Wall Insulation in Ireland

Upgrading your home’s insulation is one of the most effective ways to improve comfort, cut energy bills and futureproof your property. For many homes across Ireland—especially those with solid wall construction—external wall insulation (EWI) is often the best solution.

At BlueBuild Renewables, we’ve successfully installed EWI on homes throughout the country, consistently helping homeowners reduce heat loss and enjoy a warmer, more efficient home all year round.

What is External Wall Insulation?

External Wall Insulation is a high-performance system where robust insulation boards are securely fixed to the outside of your property. These boards are then and finished with a protective render. This method significantly reduces thermal bridging and heat loss through external walls—making it ideal for homes that weren’t built with energy efficiency in mind.

It’s particularly effective for properties with solid walls, which don’t benefit from cavity wall insulation.

External Wall Insulation Project Underway

Why is it so effective in Ireland?

With our wet, windy climate and ever-increasing energy costs, heat retention is more important than ever. Many homes across Ireland—especially those built before the 1980s—are poorly insulated and prone to draughts, cold spots and high heating bills.

External wall insulation addresses these issues head-on, delivering a measurable improvement in thermal performance and year-round comfort.

External Wall Insulation addresses these challenges head-on, delivering a measurable and dramatic improvement in your home's thermal performance and ensuring year-round comfort.

How the Installation Process Works with BlueBuild Renewables

Here’s what to expect when working with us:

1. Home Assessment

   
   

   We start with a detailed property survey. This allows us to check wall type, existing insulation, access, and suitability. We also take you through product options, finishes and grant eligibility.

   
   

2. Surface Preparation

   
   

   We clean and level the surface, removing any loose material. This ensures strong adhesion and long-term durability.

3. Insulation Board Installation

   
   

   We install high-performance insulation boards—EPS, mineral wool - depending on your property type and thermal requirements.

   
   

4. Basecoat & Reinforcement

   
   

   A mesh-reinforced basecoat is applied over the boards to add strength and prevent cracking.

   
   

5. Render Finish

   
   

   The system is finished with a breathable, weatherproof acrylic or dash render in a colour to suit your home with a smooth or dash finish.

   
   

6. Final Detailing

   
   

   We adjust pipework, vents, and sills — ensuring the finish is both neat and compliant.

Completed Project By BlueBuild Renewables

Is your home suitable?

External wall insulation is generally used on solid wall properties but can also benefit homes with poorly performing cavity walls. Our technical team will advise on the most suitable approach based on your home’s construction and energy performance.

Book your free survey

If you're thinking about improving your home’s energy performance, our team is here to help. We’ll assess your home, explain your options clearly, and give you a no-obligation quote. Email our team at info@bluebuildinsulation.ie.