Should You Install Insulation in Interior Walls?

In New Zealand your home’s insulation keeps you warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Since interior walls aren’t protecting your home from the elements, do you need insulation? In some cases, yes, interior walls benefit from insulation. Keep reading to learn why.

Advantages of Insulating the Interior Walls

Sound Protection

Insulation provides many benefits beyond serving as a barrier between indoor and outdoor temperatures. It also acts as a sound barrier. For walls that separate apartments or condos, insulation will help keep sound from traveling through the walls. Insulated interior walls are also helpful for bedrooms that require peace and quiet, like a nursery.

Fire Protection

Insulation can also add an extra layer of fire protection. The insulation must be fire-retardant to provide additional protection. It's also best to use fire-resistant drywall, which will increase the wall's fire rating to a minimum of 1 hour, from the 30-minute rating for standard 12mm plasterboard. This will make this benefit even more effective for your family's safety.

Energy Efficiency

Insulating interior walls also adds another layer of energy efficiency to your home. Insulated interior walls will prevent large temperature swings that can crack drywall. These insulated rooms will also hold their temperature longer.

For rooms that aren’t used frequently, like guest rooms or storage rooms, interior wall insulation can reduce heat transfer and help you save on your power bill.

What Kind of Insulation for Interior Walls?

For sound-deadening properties, you can use many types of insulation, such as fiberglass batt insulation, cellulose, spray foam, or rock wool. Fiberglass insulation is the most DIY-friendly and inexpensive, but it requires the wall studs to be exposed for installation. Blowing cellulose insulation into existing walls is the least invasive approach to insulate pre-existing interior walls.

Hire An Insulation Expert

For reduced noise from room to room and lower electricity bills, and improved fire protection, insulating the right interior walls can make a big difference. Your local Handyman Group handyman can help you find the best insulation and identity interior walls that will benefit the most from insulation. We are experts at helping homeowners complete all types of home projects, both big and small. Give us a call at 0800101216 or request an estimate today.