At what temperature should the façade be insulated? Insulating walls outside in winter: methods and materials

Insulation (thermal insulation) in winter period in a private home becomes possible if you follow the rules provided by winter technologies and with the right approach to choosing insulation for the facade of the house. In resolving the last issue, the resistance of products to seasonal temperature changes and high humidity is taken into account.

Work in the cold season

Is it possible to insulate the facade in winter?

Basic rules for thermal insulation in winter:

  • the temperature permissible for working with materials in winter is above +5°C, less often -5°C;
  • relative humidity should be less than 65%;
  • the speed of wind gusts affects the safety of work;
  • strong wind speeds up the drying process of the plaster composition, which negatively affects the quality of the final result.

Any violation of thermal insulation technologies in winter is always followed by a distortion of the result specified by the manufacturer.

Failure to comply with the rules has a negative impact on service life. So, in one winter, materials can become unusable and need to be replaced.

As a result, insulating the facade in winter has its pros and cons. The disadvantages are mostly associated with improper drying of aqueous compositions due to difficult weather conditions. And the advantages are that the walls become insulated from the effects of cold and moisture.

Options for winter insulation technologies

It is possible to insulate the facade of a house in winter only in accordance with certain rules. Which technology to use depends on the chosen insulation and finishing material.

"Dry" method

In winter, as a rule, preference is given to “dry” technology. This is due to the fact that during the installation process the use of materials that contain any amount of water is practically excluded. To fix the insulation, metal fasteners or so-called mushrooms (plastic dowels for insulation) are used.

Dry method technology

Several types of heat insulators are more popular as insulation.

  1. Polystyrene foam and polystyrene foam have excellent thermal insulation properties. The first one practically does not absorb moisture and does not allow steam to pass through. Expanded polystyrene has zero performance in the same moments. Installation of polystyrene foam is characterized by a large amount of debris, since the material tends to crumble. The insulation is afraid of fire, ultraviolet radiation, acetone, turpentine and drying oil.
  2. Polyurethane foam has the lowest thermal conductivity coefficient among other insulation materials. It is applied by spraying, so additional fixation does not require the use of fasteners.
  3. Mineral wool does not deform due to fluctuations in temperature and humidity, does not burn.
  4. Basalt and stone insulation do not rot and are not afraid of open fire. Experts consider them the best for winter insulation.

The procedure for facade work includes:

  • preparation of the base;
  • lathing device;
  • insulation gasket;
  • covering the structure with a membrane sheet.

This technology allows you to insulate walls built from block products, brick or wood in winter.

The process of insulation using the “dry” method often involves the installation of a ventilated façade. An empty space is created between the insulation and the facing material, which ensures constant ventilation.

This rids the base of excess harmful moisture. This method is more economical than the “wet” one. Among other things, the reason is the opportunity to refuse the services of professionals and do everything yourself.

Insulation using “wet facade” technology

Majority construction companies prefer the “wet facade”. It differs in that the thermal insulation is fastened by anchor bolts And plastic dowels. In addition, an adhesive solution is applied to the insulation, and finished coating covered with a leveling layer of plaster.

Wet façade technology

This solution is suitable for any walls, except for wooden houses and frame-type buildings. The result is lightweight, so foundation load calculations are usually not required.

Despite the justified advantages, “wet” technology is inferior in some respects:

  • in winter, it is necessary to observe the minimum thermometer reading at which it is possible to use a particular material;
  • the installation process is more labor-intensive and takes longer;
  • walls require preliminary preparation: cleaning from protruding elements, dirt and dust;
  • leveling the base;
  • primer treatment.

Manufacturers taking into account possible application materials in winter, it is suggested to purchase special additives. They allow you to reduce the threshold of acceptable temperature for work to -15°C.

Selection criteria and types of winter insulation

If we talk about the choice of material for facade insulation, then modern market provides many options.

Previously, foam concrete and expanded clay mixed with concrete mortar. Later, glass wool was used for insulation, and today the number of insulators has increased significantly.

Below are popular heat insulators, as well as their main characteristics and advantages.

Mineral wool and its modifications have good vapor permeability and do not rot. The insulation is breathable. This fact allows you to prevent the occurrence and development of fungus or mold. It is used primarily for insulating facades in accordance with “dry” technology.


Foam plastic (expanded polystyrene)
It is easy to handle and is a strong barrier to wind and moisture, but is sensitive to the sun. Its scope does not extend to wooden facades. Surface treatment required protective compounds.


Thermal panels
used not only as insulation, but also as an aesthetic facing material. The first include mineral insulation, including expanded polystyrene (foam) or cellulose, and the second - decorative types plasters, metal-plastic, metal products.


Warm paint
manufactured using different binders. It contains microscopic components in the form of glass spheres with rarefied space. For comparison, 50 mm of insulation corresponds to a 2 mm thick coating of thermal paint. She combines two useful features: insulation and aesthetics.


Izolon
used in the process of insulation using “dry” technology. In winter, it is used as an additional reinforcement of the main insulation, which creates excellent double protection. The material is vapor-permeable, so it is not combined with mineral wool and its analogues, but other heat insulators are chosen.

The choice of insulation is influenced by climatic conditions specific area, as well as the financial situation of the buyer.

Before making a final decision, it is recommended to seek advice from specialists in the construction industry.

Nuances of insulating the facade of a wooden house in winter

Houses made of wood essentially require the use of protective materials, since the log house is easily exposed to any natural phenomena.

If you decide to insulate the facade in winter, then you need to take into account some nuances:

  • polystyrene foam must be immediately treated with protective compounds to avoid its rapid destruction;
  • the choice of “wet facade” technology is appropriate only if a thermal curtain is created;
  • wooden buildings can be insulated only after their complete shrinkage, which occurs during the first three years.

As for the insulation, it must be a barrier to moisture, “breathe” and retain heat. Coping with these tasks mineral wool, expanded polystyrene, ecowool or polyurethane foam.

Foam insulation

When to insulate house facades: choose the time of year

Now, after another jump in energy prices, private houses have become an urgent need for millions of Ukrainians. After all, as calculations confirmed by practice show, if these are carried out correctly thermal insulation works heating costs can be reduced by forty percent or more!

What and how insulation is done

In order to choose the right time of year for insulation, consider existing technologies thermal insulation of homes. Let's first consider the option as the most popular. After all, improving the thermal insulation of walls immediately leads to savings in the fuel on which the boiler operates autonomous heating– gas, electricity or solid fuel.

Insulation of a private house is done in two ways:

  • Using expanded polystyrene or polystyrene tiles.
  • Using special thermal panels.

Insulation of the facade with polystyrene foam or polystyrene tiles

Consists of the following stages:

1. Preparatory work– sealing cracks in walls, leveling the surface, cleaning from dirt and old coatings.

2. Installation of tiles is done using special adhesives, and now mainly with polyurethane foam adhesives.

3. Wall reinforcement and finishing work– applying an adhesive composition to the tiles, then laying a plastic reinforcing mesh, then again applying a layer of glue and finally finishing walls (, plaster, finishing artificial stone etc.).

From the point of view of weather conditions, the most critical is the application of the adhesive composition. Polyurethane adhesives and facade adhesives allow operation at temperatures of –5 – +35 degrees Celsius.

Insulation of the facade with thermal panels

This method differs from the previous one in that the heat-insulating material is not glued to the facade, but is attached using load-bearing frame. That is, after preparing the surface of the walls, a frame is mounted on them, and the frame is already attached to it mineral insulation, moisture and vapor barrier. Then the whole thing is covered with metal sheets.

As can be seen from the description, this method is even less critical to the ambient temperature.

Insulation of apartments

This type of work is carried out similarly to the first method of insulating private houses. There are several differences:

  • At the first stage, when preparing the walls, if the house is panel, then it is done;
  • At the third stage of diversity in choice finishing materials No. Thermal insulation tiles are plastered, primed and painted with facade paint.

In principle, it is produced in a similar way.

So when is it better to insulate the facades of houses?

As can be seen from the description above, starting from March you can safely insulate houses and apartments. Moreover, in the summer, when high temperatures(and this is no longer uncommon) adhesive properties adhesive compositions will worsen (above + 35 degrees Celsius).

One more argument can be made in favor of spring - companies performing insulation work not yet loaded with orders. This will have a positive impact on the quality of work and their cost.

The main task of external wall insulation is to save material resources on utility bills by retaining and concentrating more heat indoors. Once you think about whether it is possible to insulate external walls in winter, you should immediately study the main advantages of the procedure. In the most developed countries, similar energy saving actions have long been used, which can significantly reduce heat costs.

Working with a ventilated façade

This method of insulating a building is the simplest and most common today. This is about reliable design with a fairly rigid frame, which must be attached to external wall. The design includes high-quality insulation, as well as facing material. In this case, there is no need to use adhesive solutions to attach the cladding.

The most important thing is to choose the right insulation. As a result, it will be possible to minimize heat losses. At the same time, very high-quality sound insulation will be ensured. Some citizens fear that in this case they will be too stuffy inside, but these are just assumptions that are absolutely not true. Another advantage is that even beginners in construction activities will be able to produce insulation. Work can be carried out at any time of the year.

Basic materials for insulation:

  • Styrofoam;
  • expanded polystyrene;
  • facade thermal panels;
  • basalt and mineral wool insulation.

In addition to selecting the material, builders should definitely study the main features of insulating external walls in winter and learn how to apply them correctly in practice. Each material presented above has its own thermal insulation and other properties, information about which must be studied carefully.

Main works

As mentioned above, installation of a ventilated facade can be done at any time of the year. Winter is the most difficult time to work due to the cold weather. Although when proper organization process, this circumstance will not become a problem. The most important thing is that nothing bad will happen to the material in sub-zero weather. Having figured out which insulation to choose in winter, it should be noted that a maximum thickness of sheets of materials of 5 centimeters will be quite enough. Such a layer will be able to protect the room from negative impact weather even in the most severe winters.

Wall insulation is a process consisting of several most important stages. First of all, apply to the surface of the external walls. vertical sheathing. In this case, a small wooden beam, attached with dowels. The subsequent type of final coating will directly depend on this stage of work. The previously selected insulation is placed on the surface of the sheathing. Umbrella dowels are suitable for securing it.

On top of the insulation it is necessary to use special type fabric that protects basic materials from the negative effects of moisture. At the same time, the vapor permeability of the insulation is not reduced at all, because the protective fabric is characterized by the presence of a wind and waterproof layer. Then comes the stage of creating the so-called diffusion gap. To do this, the sheathing is applied again. Only after completing this stage can you safely begin installing the siding. As an alternative, you can give preference to other types of finishing coating.

Additional features of the work

During the insulation process, certain difficulties may arise. In many situations, thermal insulation in winter is done using, which is absolutely justified. The fact is that the presented material is resistant to a wide variety of materials and substances that are often used in construction. We are talking about acids, alkalis, dyes, alcohols, etc.

Experts say that even insulating a wet façade is feasible. However, the corresponding procedure becomes more complex and costly from a financial point of view. Many companies that offer their clients the “wet” method of insulation prefer to work exclusively during the warm season. This distinguishes them from experienced professionals who can cope with this task even in winter. True, they cannot do without using antifreeze additives. It is also difficult to create a warm contour around the entire construction site.

Let's sum it up

It should definitely be stated that insulating facades in the winter is possible and absolutely realistic. True, to achieve a positive result, it is imperative to thoroughly study the rules for using a specific type of insulation, installation technology and other nuances of the process. Only in this case will the system be as durable and reliable as possible. The easiest way to insulate a ventilated facade. There are other technologies. They involve the use of special technical equipment, but still allow you to achieve your goal.

Secondly, on the one hand, better insulation houses and thermal insulation during the dry and warm period, it is simpler, more convenient for the performers of the work and easier, but on the other hand, in the cold, wet and cloudy period, defects and imperfections of surfaces that can be corrected during repairs are more visible. But again, depending, of course, on the features of the surfaces, rooms and materials that you plan to use.

In any case, we advise you to consult with specialists who will certainly advise you and competently explain how and why it is better to do so. As for the direct insulation of the facade of the house, here, as in any area, there are “hot” periods, in other words, season and off-season, the price, naturally, in different periods will vary. But if you contact the Alpinism Mariupol company, you won’t really feel this, since we are committed to professionalism and positive reviews our clients, and not solely for one-time and unscrupulous profit-making.

How do we work?

We insulate the outside of apartments and houses with polystyrene foam, taking care, of course, to seal the seams. Our specialists have special training and do their work conscientiously, efficiently and efficiently. With our knowledge and skills, facade insulation is possible and feasible at any time of the year and under any circumstances, difficulties do not frighten us and we know how to answer your questions. There is a noticeable tendency that most often people think about wall insulation closer to winter, that is, in the fall. This is understandable, given the regular increase in utility bills for heating and the desire to provide heat to personal space. By insulating the facade of your home with foam plastic, you will reduce heating costs. This is a profitable investment that protects inner space from moisture, condensation and mold, respectively. Moreover, this is additional sound insulation. Company "Alpinism Mariupol" - harmonious combination quality and price, efficiency and professionalism.

can protect residents from the winter cold and reduce bills for heating rooms. In countries with an unpleasant climate, energy supply systems have long been introduced that can save several times on heat consumption.

However, work does not always go according to plan. Sometimes it is not possible to complete the insulation in summer time. The owner is faced with a problem: is it worth finishing the work in the winter or is it better to postpone the finishing to the spring.

Work at such a time is complicated not only because negative temperatures, but also due to the high concentration of moisture in the air and frequent precipitation. Rain and melted snow prevent the glue solution and plaster from drying on walls of the building, so finishing with some insulation materials impossible.

Figure 1. External insulation of a house in winter.

To ensure reliable insulation, you have to use alternative methods installation, protected from weather influences. Winter work It is easier to do with the arrangement of a ventilated facade - a structure built from a durable frame fixed to the wall, insulation and cladding, attached without an adhesive solution.

Manufacturing technology allows you to arrange the finishing layer at a distance from the surface so as to protect it from rain and other aggressive weather conditions. At the same time, the façade becomes vapor-permeable. At there are pros and cons to insulating the facade in winter.

What methods allow you to carry out external insulation of a house in winter?

Correct method and quality thermal insulation insulation façade house allow you to reduce losses to a lower threshold and build decent sound insulation. At the same time, the rooms will not be stuffy, they will not begin to fill with spores - humidity is not a threat.

If you master the technology correctly thermal insulation ventilated facade, work can be carried out independently at any temperature, even without professional construction skills.

Wet processes at subzero temperatures

A wet façade is a component of a heat saving system (PPS or basalt wool) fixed to wall surface on glue solution or mechanical impact(rarely used).

Above slabs reinforced with fiberglass mesh and covered with plaster. Usually the finish is painted and tiled for beauty. Decorative models already have acceptable appearance, but they can also be painted.

Advantage wet insulation– relatively low cost, variability design solutions(the facade can acquire individual features), ease of restoration and savings usable space in room. Resistance coefficient, heat transfer and other properties of the interlayer depend on the choice of material and its thickness.

Use of dry processes

When it is not possible to compensate for the effect of aggressive weather conditions on the treated surface, in case of dangerous temperatures forced to use “dry” processes.

All mechanisms that exclude the addition of water or the application of solutions, viscous adhesives and mastics for fixing materials can be considered suitable for operation.

The simplest option is basalt wool or polystyrene foam pasted over the facade of the building. Any brick, wood or block surface is processed using this technology. For installation use wooden sheathing or pendants. IN frame structure Initially, install cotton wool or polystyrene foam into the base posts.

Features of a wet facade in winter

The use of technology is recommended only at favorable temperatures. The simplest version is the installation of a thick film along the outer perimeter of scaffolding mounted on the facade. If strong wind exposure is planned, then the use of reinforced film is allowed.


Figure 2. Insulation of the house from the outside.

To increase the temperature in such a “greenhouse” they use heat guns. Significant heating is not required - it is enough to provide a favorable environment for facade plastering.

At what temperature should a wet façade be installed?

The situation in winter time is complicated by the presence of water in the fillers of adhesive and plaster substances. It freezes at zero temperature. Special masses contain relatively little water, so they can withstand lower thresholds, but within insignificant limits.

How to make a wet facade in sub-zero temperatures

Folk craftsmen advise adding salt to the mixture. The technology is not particularly effective: during installation and after finishing the cladding, the work looks decent and does not lose heat, but when the weather begins to improve, whitish stains form on the facade.

For arrangement high-quality insulation outside the house The following mechanism is better suited: the formation of a temporary thermal insulation contour. Work process:

  1. Formation of forests. They can be assembled in the summer - there are no significant differences from the usual construction procedure.
  2. A moisture-proof film is laid around the outer perimeter, and special thermomats are installed.
  3. In the work area they are installed heating installations– coal, gasoline or electric. Experts do not recommend using diesel heaters: when heated, soot is released and settles on the material to retain heat (this can make it difficult to adhere to the covering layer).

In this case, a separate microclimate is collected under the canvas. To lay external plaster, it is necessary to maintain a working environment of +8 degrees, and for final stages+5 degrees is enough for work.


Figure 3. Pros and cons of facade insulation in winter.

In the language of builders, such a contour is called a “warmhouse”. It is designed to create conditions suitable for installation, regardless of the season. It has other advantages:

  • protection from precipitation;
  • obstruction to the passage of rays;
  • wind limitation;
  • reduced exposure to humidity.

During the construction process, all characteristics are maintained at a stable level, which cannot but affect the final quality of the facade. To a small extent, the technology even provides comfort when working: if you drop a tool, you don’t have to go downstairs to get it.

In this way it is possible not only insulate gas silicate blocks and other facade materials, but also masonry, standard insulation. The method is also used in restoration, roofing and other external work. Its disadvantages: high price, duration and technological complexity. The cost of cladding increases by an average of 10%.

Using Modifiers

Over time, many modifiers have appeared on the market - substances that can improve the characteristics of the solution: increase frost resistance, etc.

The effect was achieved by eliminating water as one of the components of the solution. The connecting element is made using acrylic, converted at a partial level.

Interesting! Using Modifiers allows you to perform work in frosty weather (up to -15 Celsius), and the composition is also suitable for storage in cold conditions.

Some masters doubt the promises of the manufacturers of these modifiers. Your opinion about finishing the facade of the house They argue as follows:

  • The processes of crystal formation in a mass protected from frost are not well understood. The veracity of claims requires research and practical verification;
  • Modifiers cause “side effects”: adjustment of the quality indicators of the mounted facade, reduced durability of the structure, and a weaker ability to retain heat.

Is it possible to leave an unfinished wet façade in winter?

If work becomes so complicated in winter, then many people have a question: is it possible to freeze the process until warmer times. Decorative plaster - it's not only decorative element, but also reliable protection insulation from external influence. It should be applied immediately after insulation, since many materials are not capable of long time withstand the external environment.

Expanded polystyrene vulnerable to sun rays– it should not be left exposed to ultraviolet radiation for a long time, even in winter. EPS absorbs water minimally, but still absorbs it. If exposed for a long time, the insulation will get wet. Also, PPS is a combustible material. If you leave it open, you will have to worry about fire safety measures.


Figure 4. Installation of insulation on a wooden sheathing.

Household wool is not a flammable material, but has significant hygroscopicity. A wet leaf loses half useful characteristics. The impact of mechanical factors on each of the materials in winter time increases significantly due to wind, snow, rain, etc.

Important! It is logical that installing insulation and leaving the walls like that for the whole winter is not best idea. The material will not be able to retain heat, and the work will be in vain.

Methods for covering the area are also not very reliable. plastic film– it does not allow air to pass through, so condensation will begin to accumulate inside. Separate “breathable” hydro-windproof membranes are sold, but to cover the entire area with them you will have to invest a lot.

It is recommended to reinforce the slabs before the onset of cold weather, apply a protective layer of plaster and cover everything with a frost-resistant water-repellent solution. It is possible to use primer paint - it contains acrylic sand. A decorative works can be postponed until warmer weather arrives.

You need to understand that decorative finishing it is better to apply to the surface after the house has settled - so life time plaster will increase. If a wet façade is being installed in a newly built building, forced downtime can be effective.

Requirements for thermal insulation material

You should focus on the following characteristics:

  • Good thermal insulation – thermal conductivity material should be very low. The effectiveness is indicated by the layer (modern polyurethane sheets are up to 20-30% more effective than polystyrene).
  • Best before date. There's a championship here insulating the house goes to polyurethanes. According to statistics, they can last up to 60 years or more, which cannot be said about conventional fibrous materials.
  • Protection from moisture and other aggressive influences. The facade, being outside, is exposed to wind, precipitation and temperature fluctuations, and sometimes to damage due to vandalism.
  • Fire hazard. It is assumed that the correct façade has low flammability and does not contribute to the growth of flames. Usage the right material increases the fire resistance of the building and ensures the safety of all residents.
  • Susceptibility to biological influences. These are insects, rodents, microbes that live in environmental insulation materials (sawdust, mineral wool and others), however, standard industrial substances cannot be considered a guarantee of safety.
  • Weight. The façade should not place an increased load on the wall and foundation. Also, materials with a large weight are not convenient for installation.

Advantages of winter facade insulation

Winter insulation is possible. Moreover, the procedure can be completed faster, since you do not have to wait for the walls to heat up and dry out - in cold weather this happens faster (the dew point moves outside).

Other benefits:

  • Price;
  • Light weight;
  • Wide choose;
  • Durability;
  • Vapor barrier.

Disadvantages of winter facade insulation

The process also has its disadvantages and weaknesses:

  • Temperature conditions;
  • Air humidity;
  • Excessive heat.

It is possible to carry out insulation in winter, although it is quite difficult. If the facade does not retain temperature well, it is recommended to insulate it. Despite the complexity of the process, winter finishing can be reliable and durable.

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