How to insulate single-skin construction

Thick materials required

Single-skin solid wall construction requires very thick materials to provide a good thermal performance. It takes space and the construction becomes heavy.

Poor resistance to weather

Even with thick masonry blocks in single skin construction, the need for a protective and decorative cladding is there to achieve proper resistance to weather.

Poor sealing

Without careful detailing at openings, water can track around windows and door frames etc. bypassing seals at openings.

Good quality and reliable seals are paramount. Simple gun-applied sealants used with cavity construction are often poorly applied. If they fail for whatever reason with single-skin construction, the construction is immediately exposed.