This is one important way to improve the energy efficiency of an existing building

The photos below show the Eco Vida Homes VH team applying external insulation to a renovation project in Guadalmina Marbella (SATE: Sistema de Aislamiento Térmico por Exterior).

In a conventional building you can typically lose 30% of your heating and cooling energy because of poorly insulated walls.

The cost isn’t just financial. Better insulation makes your home more comfortable, and more valuable, and the fewer fossil fuels you use the kinder you are to the environment.

External wall insulation is a supplement to internal wall insulation or cavity walls that maybe wholly or partially filled. There are a number of advantages:
1. It eliminates condensation within the structure (the dew point is on the outside)
2. It adds weather protection to the house, safeguards you against temperature fluctuations, reduces thermal bridging, and allows you to make the most of the heat storage capacity of the substrate.
3. It preserves the size of the internal space
3. It comes in a variety of finishes so it can match the look you are aiming for.

Author: John Wolfendale
Bio: John is a founder of Eco Vida Homes and is passionate about bringing modern design and construction practices to Spain. He believes a home which is warm in winter and cool in summer is largely a matter of design and selective use of materials. He is British and a Chartered Surveyor with over 22 years experience living and working in Spain.