singleskin

Singleskin, or single-skin, is a term used in architecture and construction to describe a wall or façade formed by a single layer of material, without an internal or external cavity. The concept is most often encountered in traditional or economical building types where the exterior and interior surfaces are the same structural element.

A singleskin wall can be built from brick, block, stone, or timber and may carry plaster or render on either side. In some cases the wall is structurally load-bearing, while in others it acts as an exterior layer over a separate insulation or structural system. Because the wall is one layer thick, there is less inherent separation for moisture movement and heat transfer compared with cavity or double-skin constructions.

Thermal and moisture performance are practical considerations for singleskin walls. Without a cavity, heat loss and damp movement can be more direct, so energy efficiency and weather protection often rely on additional insulation, external cladding, or vapor barriers installed as part of a retrofit or design strategy. Proper damp-proofing and surface protection are important to prevent moisture-related issues.

Usage of singleskin walls is common in historical urban areas, climates where construction costs are a primary constraint, or in contexts where external insulation is incorporated by design. In modern construction, singleskin walls are less common in cold climates but may still be found in warmer regions or in timber-frame designs where an inner or outer insulation strategy complements the single outer layer.

See also: double-skin facade, cavity wall, thermal performance.