Sustainable Insulation: The Role of External Wall Insulation in the UK

Our latest market research report sheds light on the evolving landscape of the UK Building Insulation and Dry Lining Market, with a particular emphasis on the increased demand for External Wall Insulation (EWI) products. 

As sustainability pressures and regulatory standards drive industry priorities, this report captures a marked shift toward insulation solutions that meet both efficiency and environmental goals.

To celebrate the launch of this report, Editor Anne Williams has shared just some of the key market highlights below.

Market Share

EWI and render products collectively hold around 11% of the UK Wall Cladding Market, signifying their substantial role within the industry.

Energy Efficiency and Regulatory Influence

The growth in EWI installations is strongly tied to government-backed energy efficiency initiatives like the ECO (Energy Company Obligation) scheme, which has driven up demand in recent years.

Rapid Market Growth in 2023

There was a 200% increase in ECO EWI installations in 2023, highlighting a considerable rise in adoption and reflecting the effectiveness of regulatory incentives in promoting energy-efficient solutions.

Insulation and Thermal Performance Benefits

EWI systems are designed to improve the thermal performance of buildings, helping to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions, which is particularly valuable in the context of the UK’s net-zero targets.

Broad Application in Retrofitting

EWI and renders are increasingly applied in retrofitting projects across older building stock in the UK, enhancing both the energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal of existing structures, making them a favored choice for sustainable upgrades.

Editor’s Quote

An essential takeaway from this report is the recalibrated market estimate for building insulation and dry lining, adjusted to account for current trends and reflecting the heightened role of EWI.

Such adjustments are key to aligning market data with broader industry shifts, especially as insulation products play an increasingly pivotal role in advancing the UK’s sustainability targets.

The robust demand for these solutions is seen not only in new builds but also in retrofitting projects, where enhanced thermal performance and reduced energy costs are vital in upgrading the country’s aging building stock.

Furthermore, dry lining continues to be a critical component within the insulation sector, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits across commercial and residential applications.

As building regulations tighten, these products are more integral than ever, contributing significantly to indoor air quality, fire resistance, and noise reduction.