Internal Wall Insulation - Getting Started - Solid Walls – How do solid walls work?

Solid walls are simple in their construction and the way they are designed to protect themselves. They rely on moisture being able to move through the wall as both a liquid and as a gas.

The walls of these buildings are protected by an appropriate external finish that is usually determined by aesthetics and/or architectural style as well as the level of protection that a particular elevation requires to be able to resist the build-up of liquid moisture. This can be undecorated pointing, vapour permeable paints, render, slate hanging or cladding. Any moisture that does penetrate the surface must be able to evaporate.

Additional protection can be given by overhanging eaves, good rainwater goods and land drains, they should always be checked and maintained in good working order to keep the building well protected.

Internally, floor coverings, as well as, ceiling and wall plasters have an impact on the internal environment as they will allow moisture vapour to be absorbed and evaporated thus maintaining a ‘healthy building’. The often crude, simple construction of this building type makes them very robust when repaired and maintained with the correct materials.