ᐅ Topic: Exterior Wall Insulation

Created on: 17 Nov 2014 11:57
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Bauexperte
Hello everyone,

I am really not a fan of "construction documentaries," as they mostly consist of entertaining horror stories based on real cases (I know quite a few productions) ... but tonight it’s worth checking out a public broadcasting program; here on WDR1.

At 8:15 p.m., there will be a report about who really benefits from external wall insulation. Here is a brief description of the program:

If you want to protect the climate and save money at the same time, you absolutely have to insulate your house walls. At least that is what politicians and the industry claim.

A little over a year ago, WDR presenter Dieter Könnes started researching the topic of external wall insulation. He quickly developed serious doubts about the above statement. Dieter Könnes was able to prove that the savings promises from the industry are exaggerated and that the commonly used material—polystyrene—can be dangerous. In the event of a fire, polystyrene, also known as Styrofoam, is very difficult to extinguish.

Following his first film on the subject of external wall insulation, there were strong reactions from insulation manufacturers, who legally challenged the research and the film. This was another reason for Dieter Könnes to continue exploring the insulation of house walls and to find out: What are we actually sticking onto our walls? Do the materials deliver what the industry promises? How has the industry managed to establish such a controversial product on the market? Who profits from the massive consumption of polystyrene insulation boards? The environment? The consumers? Or just the industry?

In his new film, Dieter Könnes meets industry insiders who provide insights behind the scenes of the insulation industry and its questionable business practices. He also questions the role of politics: Why is a single, highly controversial measure subsidized with billions in taxpayer money when it saves far less energy than promised?

Dieter Könnes reveals how closely industry, politics, and lobby groups cooperate regarding thermal insulation. Is everyone really fighting for the climate—or just for their own profit?


So definitely tune in—at least those of you who are considering masonry + ETICS (external thermal insulation composite system).

Best regards, Bauexperte
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Bauexperte
18 Nov 2014 13:14
Hello,
Manu1976 schrieb:
Too bad, I unfortunately missed the post. I would have been interested

You should be able to find the broadcast by tomorrow at the latest in the channel’s media library. There are two versions: one from last year and one from yesterday.

Regards, Bauexperte
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DerBjoern
18 Nov 2014 13:20
DerBjoern schrieb:
Unfortunately, I don’t know of any reputable broadcaster. Public service channels haven’t been trustworthy for a long time. It’s all about ratings now, which are generated through scandal and fear-based content. Shows like brand tests clearly demonstrate this.
Wanderdüne schrieb:
The segment could have been cut down to 20 minutes without the scary music, self-promotion, and predictable suspense.

That’s exactly what I meant! However, I haven’t seen it myself yet. Is it available in the media library?
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Manu1976
18 Nov 2014 13:29
Ah, okay. Existing buildings. I still need to take a closer look, because our parents’ house is going to undergo a complete renovation in the near future, and it still partly consists of sandstone.
Cascada18 Nov 2014 13:49
@ DerBjoern: is already available in the media library – but you haven’t missed anything...
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Bauexperte
18 Nov 2014 15:10
Hello,
Cascada schrieb:
This was about external wall insulation in existing buildings, not about new constructions.
Sorry, that is not correct. It was about facade insulation in general, regardless of whether it is a renovation or new construction.

Regards, Bauexperte
Cascada18 Nov 2014 15:18
Bauexperte schrieb:
Hello,


Sorry, that is not correct. The discussion was about insulation of the facade in general; whether renovation or new construction.

Regards, Bauexperte

Well, it was about so many things. All examples referred to existing buildings, right? I didn’t see a single new build. If it was meant in general, then the post is even worse—and the journalist would have also forgotten the entire prefabricated house industry. And with such comprehensive research and exemplary reporting, this slip certainly wouldn’t have happened ;-))