Cavity Extraction

When Cavity Wall Insulation Fails

Cavity wall insulation is excellent when installed correctly in suitable properties. However, problems can occur when insulation is installed in homes that aren't appropriate, or when the wrong materials or techniques are used.

Failed cavity wall insulation can cause serious issues including penetrating damp, black mould, cold spots, and structural damage. If you're experiencing these problems, extraction may be the solution.

Full Borescope Inspection

We examine your cavity with a camera to diagnose the problem accurately.

Detailed Survey Report

Independent report provided, useful for insurance claims or complaints.

Complete Removal

All insulation material extracted and cavity cleaned thoroughly.

Signs Your Cavity Insulation Has Failed

If you've had cavity wall insulation installed and notice any of these problems, extraction may be necessary.

Damp patches appearing on internal walls, especially after rain

Cold spots on walls that weren't there before insulation

Black mould growth on walls or around windows

Peeling wallpaper or bubbling/flaking paint

Musty or damp smell inside your home

Cracks in render or damaged pointing on external walls

Increased heating bills despite having insulation

Health issues that worsen when at home

Our Extraction Process

We use specialist equipment and proven techniques to safely and completely remove failed cavity wall insulation.

1. Comprehensive Survey

Borescope inspection to assess cavity condition and extent of the problem.

2. Access Preparation

Strategic holes drilled at optimal points for complete extraction access.

3. Insulation Removal

Industrial extraction equipment removes all insulation material from the cavity.

4. Completion & Report

Holes sealed, full report provided, and advice on next steps.

Why Cavity Insulation Fails

Unsuitable Property

Properties in exposed locations with high driving rain, narrow cavities, or existing damp issues should never have had cavity insulation installed.

Wrong Material

Some insulation materials are unsuitable for certain wall types. Using the wrong material leads to moisture absorption problems.

Poor Installation

Gaps, voids, or incomplete coverage leave areas without insulation while trapping moisture in others.

What Happens After Extraction?

Once the failed insulation is removed, your cavity will need time to dry out. Depending on the severity of the moisture problem, this could take several weeks to months.

After the cavity has dried, you have several options:

Leave Cavity Empty

For exposed locations, this may be the safest long-term option.

Re-insulate with Suitable Material

If conditions allow, we can re-insulate using appropriate material.

External or Internal Insulation

Alternative insulation methods that don't use the cavity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Costs vary depending on property size and insulation type. A typical semi-detached house ranges from £1,500 to £3,000. We provide a fixed quote after our survey so there are no surprises.

Potentially, yes. If your insulation was installed under a government scheme and has failed, you may be able to claim through the installer's guarantee or the CIGA (Cavity Insulation Guarantee Agency). Our survey report can support your claim.

Most extractions are completed in 1-2 days depending on property size and the type of insulation installed. We'll confirm the timeline during your survey.

If the damp is caused by failed cavity wall insulation, extraction should resolve the issue once the cavity has dried. However, we'll assess whether there are other contributing factors during our survey.

Experiencing Problems After CWI?

Book a survey to find out if extraction is the right solution for your home.