Cavity Insulation Installer
What is the work like?
Your job as a cavity insulation installer would be to fit insulation materials (like foam or polystyrene granules) into the spaces between the inner and outer walls of new and existing buildings. You would also lay loft insulation, fit draught-proofing and install soundproofing materials in buildings.
On a typical installation job, your main tasks would include:
- carrying out a pre-installation survey to work out which methods and materials to use
- writing up a survey report for customers and managers
- marking out ventilation, wiring and pipework ducts in walls and sealing openings like air vents
- working out the volume of space to be filled, and the amount of insulation needed
- drilling a pattern of horizontal and vertical holes into the building's walls
- injecting insulation materials into cavity spaces through the holes in a specific order
- re-filling the holes and re-pointing mortar, taking care to colour-match it with the original
- checking that all the airbricks and flues are clear
- making sure that the materials and methods used meet Building Regulations.
You would use various tools to install materials, including hand-held electric and pneumatic drills, and injection pumps. You would normally be part of a team of two and often work from ladders, scaffolding or cradle equipment.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You do not usually need formal qualifications to find work as a cavity insulation installer, but some employers may ask for GCSEs in subjects like maths, English or design and technology. Some experience of using power tools and knowledge of basic brickwork could be helpful.
You may also have a slight advantage when looking for work if you have completed a general construction course at college.
A driving licence could be useful although it is not always essential.
See the ConstructionSkills website for more details about careers in the construction industry.
What further training and development can I do?
Once you join a cavity insulation company, you would work under the supervision of an experienced installer and attend short courses run by product manufacturers. You normally need three to six months' training to become a skilled installer.
You could work towards the NVQ Level 2 Insulation and Building Treatments (Construction), which includes units in:
- external wall insulation
- cavity wall insulation
- loft insulation
- damp-proofing.
See the National Energy Action website for more details about the NVQ and your local assessment centres.
Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS)
Many building contractors now insist that you have a CSCS card to work on their sites. The card is proof of your skills and competence. To get your card you must:
- pass a health and safety assessment
- have an NVQ or equivalent qualification.
If you are working without qualifications, you may be able to use On-Site Assessment and Training (OSAT) or Experienced Worker Practical Assessment (EWPA) to get your NVQ and card. Contact CSCS or SkillsDirect for further details.
Where can I go for more information?
Bircham NewtonKing's Lynn
Norfolk
PE31 6RH
Tel: 01485 577577
90-92 Pilgrim Street
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 6SG
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Trainees can earn between £11,500 and £14,000 a year.
- With experience, this can rise to around £20,000.
- Senior installers can earn up to £30,000 a year.
Some contracts, particularly for self-employed installers, pay by the square metre.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would work up to 45 hours a week, which could include weekends.
This job can be physically demanding and you may be required to work in cramped conditions, for example when laying loft insulation.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- the ability to follow written and spoken instructions
- good practical skills for operating drills and other equipment
- maths skills to work out cavity space sizes and material quantities
- good fitness levels
- a head for heights for some jobs
- good customer care skills
- teamworking skills
- an awareness of health and safety.
What opportunities are there?
You can normally find jobs with housing authorities, construction companies and specialist installation firms. Opportunities are increasing as the building industry strives to meet energy efficiency targets.
You would find jobs advertised in the press, in local job centres and by contacting companies directly.
With experience you could become a team leader or estimator, or set up your own installation business. You could also use your skills and site experience to move into the wider construction trades.
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