In this detailed spray cork cost guide we explore why this material is becoming a popular option for insulating homes and businesses in the UK. Spray cork insulation is an environmentally friendly insulation material that is known for its durability, ease of application and energy saving properties.
Given it offers excellent insulation properties, moisture resistance and long term durability you may be interested in getting spray cork insulation at your property.
GreenCork Ltd has more than 20 years of experience in spray cork installation and is more than happy to pass on our knowledge so you can make the most informed decision as to whether cork spray insulation is the best option for you.
In this detailed spray cork cost guide we will explore how spray cork insulation works, its benefits, installation process, cost factors and compare it in detail with other common insulation materials.
How Is Spray Cork Made?
Spray cork insulation is a unique material made from cork granules combined with a special water based resin. These granules are produced from the bark of the cork oak tree which is harvested without cutting down any tees. The granules are processed and blended with the resin to form a mixture that can be sprayed onto various surfaces such as external walls, roofs and floors.
The cork granules retain their structure after the mixture is sprayed providing outstanding insulation properties. The water based resin ensures the cork sticks to surfaces creating a strong bond that is resistant to environmental conditions.
Unlike many traditional insulation materials that can trap moisture and cause mould cork allows the structure to “breathe.” This means that any moisture in the building can escape reducing the likelihood of condensation or dampness problems.
How does Spray Cork Insulation Work?
Spray cork is used to insulate properties. Once applied to the external walls a protective layer is formed which keeps heat in and helps preserve the building’s warmth whilst saving you money on your electricity bills.
Cork is a highly elastic material which means it can expand and contract with temperature fluctuations. This flexibility prevents cracking and ensures that the insulation remains intact and effective over time. The cork mixture adheres to the surface with a smooth uniform finish filling in gaps and cracks that could otherwise lead to air leaks.
After being loaded into the spray gun cork is applied in multiple stages. The initial coat is evenly sprayed to create a base layer followed by a second coat to improve thermal and acoustic insulation.
Factors Affecting Spray Cork Cost
The cost of spray cork is dependent on many things. Some things that affect the spray cork cost are:
Surface area – The total area to be covered by the spray cork plays a key role in deciding the overall price. Larger areas generally reduce the cost per square meter due to economies of scale whereas smaller projects may have higher per meter costs due to setup and labour costs.
Spray Cork Thickness – The number of layers an installation requires dictates the cost. In some cases one layer of cork insulation may be sufficient but it is generally recommended to apply at least two layers to achieve the maximum benefits from the system.
Condition of the Surface – A smooth and well prepared surface will require less work making the application process cheaper. If repairs, cleaning or priming are necessary before applying spray cork this can add to the overall expense.
Accessibility – If scaffolding or special equipment is needed to reach certain areas the cost will increase. Multi-story buildings or locations with difficult access can lead to higher labour costs.
Geographical Location – Prices may vary depending on the availability of materials and labour costs in different regions. In urban areas where contractor demand is high the cost may be higher than in rural locations.
Complexity of the Project – Buildings with intricate designs, lots of angles or special architectural features may require more time and expertise to apply the insulation properly increasing the overall spray cork price.
Average Spray Cork Prices in the UK
While costs can fluctuate based on the factors mentioned above general spray cork pricing in the UK ranges between £60 and £100 per square meter. For a typical three bedroom home covering external walls might cost between £6,000 and £12,000 depending on the size and specifics of the project. Internal applications such as a single room may range from £1,500 to £3,000 based on the area and required thickness.
When comparing spray cork to traditional external wall insulation (EWI) which can range from £100 to £150 per square meter spray cork often emerges as a more affordable option with additional benefits such as breathability and flexibility.
GreenCork Ltd use an insulation spray made by CorkSol and is a CorkSol UK Approved Contractor. More information on their prices can be found on their website.
Benefits of Spray Cork Insulation
There are several associated benefits to spray cork insulation. These benefits make it an attractive investment to homeowners and businesses alike. Some of these benefits include:
Thermal Insulation: Spray cork provides excellent thermal insulation keeping buildings warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This helps reduce energy consumption and lowers heating and cooling bills for the property saving you money.
Sound Insulation: As well as offering heat insulation spray cork is also highly effective at reducing any external noise in a property. The structure of the cork helps to reduce noise pollution and is a great option for properties near busy roads or under flight paths.
Moisture Resistance: Spray cork naturally repels water which prevents mould and mildew growth. It is a breathable material which allows moisture to escape making it ideal for areas likely to suffer dampness.
Fire Resistance: Cork is a naturally fire resistant material which adds an extra layer of safety to your property. It does not release toxic fumes when exposed to fire unlike some synthetic materials.
Environmental Sustainability: Cork is harvested from cork trees which means it is a highly sustainable and regenerative building material. The cork itself can also be easily recycled and repurposed unlike many synthetic materials.
Durability: Spray cork is highly durable and can last for decades without requiring significant maintenance. It resists cracking, warping and degradation ensuring a long lifespan for the insulation.
What does a Spray Cork Installation Involve?
Step One: Preparation – Prepare the wall that will receive the spray cork application before any spraying takes place. This involves repairing any cracks or holes in the surface and thoroughly cleaning the wall. This ensures the surface is smooth and the cork will stick to it.
Step Two: Masking – Cover all other walls, windows, doors and nearby surfaces. The most effective way to do this is by using masking tape.
Step Three: Spraying – A specialist spray gun applies the spray cork mixture. The cork is applied in layers with each layer needing to dry completely before the next application.
Step 4: Finishing – Once the desired thickness is achieved the installation team finishes the surface to ensure a smooth and even coat using specialist tools. A sealant may then be applied to protect the wall from the weather.
Step 5: Curing – The spray cork must dry fully for 48 hours. This could be longer if the application required many layers.
Spray Cork vs Other Insulation Methods
Spray cork is a highly effective means to provide extra insulation to a property. We compare how it stacks up vs other alternative methods of insulation.
| Feature | Spray Cork | External Wall Insulation (EWI) | Spray Foam | Traditional Insulation (Fiberglass, Polystyrene) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per Square Meter | £60 – £100 | £100 – £150 | £30 – £80 | £40 – £80 |
| Thermal Insulation | Excellent | Very good | Excellent | Good |
| Acoustic Insulation | Very good | Moderate | Moderate to good | Limited |
| Moisture Resistance | Excellent | Good | Good | Limited |
| Fire Resistance | Naturally fire resistant | Varies by material (EPS is flammable, mineral wool is fire resistant) | Can be flammable – but some types are treated with fire retardants | Fiberglass is fire resistant but polystyrene can be flammable |
| Environmental Impact | Low impact – renewable and recyclable | Varies by material – typically higher environmental impact | Can be harmful to the environment due to chemicals used | Fiberglass and polystyrene are less eco-friendly |
| Durability | Very high – lasts for decades | High – but may need maintenance and repair after time | Moderate – may need to be replaced or reapplied | Moderate – may require maintenance or replacement |
| Ease of Installation | Requires professional application but straightforward | Involves significant preparation and can be labor intensive | Requires professionals and can be complex in tight spaces | Easy to install for DIYers, but needs professional help for large areas |
| Suitability for Old Buildings | Excellent | May not be ideal for older buildings due to reduced breathability | Can trap moisture and cause damage if not applied correctly | Suitable, but less effective for damp or older properties |
Further information on EWI can be found in our EWI Cost Guide which explores this type of insulation in greater detail.
Contact us!
Spray cork is a highly effective method of further insulating your home or business. It is a great way to save you money on your energy bills as well as having the added bonus of being renewable and recyclable.
This spray cork cost guide has thoroughly examined all aspects included in an installation as well as broken down the benefits and costs of spray cork. If you feel like you are ready to find out how this brilliant product can benefit you then reach out to one of our team today.
Here at GreenCork Ltd we have a wealth of experience in spray cork insulation installation. If you are based in Leeds or West Yorkshire and the surrounding areas please do not hesitate to contact us today. From here we can arrange a free site visit and provide you with a detailed quotation for your project.
