LOFT INSULATION

 

About 25 - 40% heat is lost through the roof in an uninsulated home*

 

The recommended depth is 270 – 300mm, most homes have only 100mm

 

Choosing loft insulation If your loft is easy to access and has no damp or condensation problems, it should be easy to insulate – and in many cases, it is possible to do it yourself. If your loft joists are regular, you can use rolls of mineral wool insulation. The first layer is laid between the joists, then another layer is laid at right angles to cover the joists and make the insulation up to the required depth.

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DIY loft insulation If your house does not have damp problems and doesn't have a flat roof, you could probably insulate it yourself, otherwise a professional installer should be used. Flat roof insulation always requires professional insulation and damp roofs require professional assessment before work can be carried out.

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Pipes, water tank and loft hatch Insulating between the joists of your loft will keep your house warmer but make the roof space above colder. This means pipes and water tanks in the loft space could be more likely to freeze, so you will need to insulate them. If your water tank is some distance from the loft hatch, you will also need something to walk on for safe access.

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Insulate the Loft Hatch The cooler air in your insulated loft could mean that cold draughts come through the loft hatch. To prevent this, fit an insulated loft hatch and put strips of draught-excluding material around the hatch edges.

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Finding an installer The National Insulation Association (NIA) is a member organisation for the insulation industry in the UK.

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*25-40% depending on what else is insulated and if the house is terraced or detached.