Lime constructed house with cavity wall… can you insulate

[JamieDIYs]

Hi all, just wondering what people’s thoughts are on cavity wall insulation on a 1910’s built house constructed with lime mortar.
I’ve read a couple of horror stories online about people installing modern cavity wall insulation into a period property which subsequently caused a multitude of damp issues.

I’m looking for a product that will Obviously need to be breathable as I don’t want to cause any damp issues.
I’ve read about sheep wool being good for this however I’ve only seen it sold in a roll form which isn’t suitable to get into the actual cavity.

Thanks
Jamie

 

[JohnD]

How wide is the cavity?

What is the height of the DPC above external ground and paving level?

Where are you?

 

[JamieDIYs]

DPC is around 1ft from ground level

I’d say the cavity is approx 100mm

we’re in lincolnshire

 

[Mr Chibs]

Are you sure you have a cavity?

Most of the houses I've lived in similar to that age have been solid brick, this opens a few different options for insulation.

There is EPS beads, instead of blown mineral insulation, but have no practical knowledge of these, I'm sure others will comment.

 

[JohnD]

You could have blown mineral wool. A reputable installer will inspect your walls for suitability and your cavities for rubble before agreeing, to save themselves the risk of later remediation

 

[JohnD]

I’d say the cavity is approx 100mm

Drill a hole and poke a piece of wire in to check.

If you do it just above DPC you can feel for rubble as well

 

[JamieDIYs]

Thanks JohnD,
What properties does mineral wood have that makes it suitable for the job?

Thanks
Jamie

 

[JohnD]

Quite a good insulator

Treated to be non-absorbent

Non flammable

Will not rot or support moths or other insects

Will not fall out through a hole in the wall

 

[JamieDIYs]

Are you sure you have a cavity?

Most of the houses I've lived in similar to that age have been solid brick, this opens a few different options for insulation.

There is EPS beads, instead of blown mineral insulation, but have no practical knowledge of these, I'm sure others will comment.

Hiya,Yes I’m 100% sure it’s not solid brick. A couple of houses on our street are solid brick then some are cavity wall.

 

[JamieDIYs]

Quite a good insulator

Treated to be non-absorbent

Non flammable

Will not rot or support moths or other insects

Will not fall out through a hole in the wall

And is it breathable?

 

[JohnD]

Yes of course