What Is Loft Insulation?
Loft insulation refers to the process of insulating a space within the roof or loft of a building. It is typically done using various types of materials, such as mineral wool, natural fibres or plastic foam. Its purpose is to help keep the air within the loft cool in summer and warm in winter. This can help lower energy bills and improve the overall comfort of the home.
Loft insulation is the most effective form of insulation and is considered one of the most cost-effective measures for improving home energy efficiency. It works by trapping pockets of air amidst the fibres and creating an invisible barrier that prevents heat from escaping from the inside of the building. This means that your heating system will not have to work as hard, leading to lower energy bills.
How Does Loft Insulation Work?
Loft insulation works by trapping air amidst its fibres and creating an invisible barrier that prevents heat from escaping from inside the home. The fibres themselves act as an insulator, so the hotter air near the ceiling stays in the loft rather than entering the living area. By trapping pockets of warm air, the material helps to save energy by ensuring it does not escape through the roof.
Most loft insulation materials contain small pockets of air or other gases, which work together to keep the heat inside the home. This means that you don’t have to rely on your heating system as much, reducing energy consumption and saving money on bills. Furthermore, this type of insulation also reduces cold spots in your home and helps to retain warmth in the colder months.
Need assistance finding loft insulation near you?
Get a QuoteWhat Depth Should Loft Insulation Be?
The depth of loft insulation recommended depends on the insulation material being used, but the highest possible level should always be installed. Generally, a minimum depth of 270mm is recommended but some materials may require deeper installation depths for maximum efficiency. Different materials offer different levels of insulation, so research should be done prior to installation. Furthermore, additional insulation may be required depending on the age of your property and the existing construction. In this case, it is worth consulting a professional to ensure the job is done correctly and efficiently.
How Much Does Loft Insulation Cost?
The cost of loft insulation will depend on the type of material being used, the size of your loft and whether you are having it professionally installed. Generally speaking, the average cost of loft insulation per m2 typically ranges from £5-£10 depending on the material used, whereas for professional installation the average cost per m2 typically ranges from £20-£30.
In terms of cost per m2, mineral wool is generally cheaper than plastic foam or natural fibres, however, all materials work in a similar way. Generally, having insulation professionally fitted is the most expensive option, so it may be worth carrying out the installation yourself if you are comfortable with DIY projects.
Is It A Legal Requirement To Have Loft Insulation?
Under current building regulations, it is mandatory that all new homes are built with cavity wall insulation and loft insulation of at least 270mm thick. For existing homes, there is no legal requirement for loft insulation but it is still highly recommended in order to reduce energy bills and make the home more energy efficient.
Since 2003, current building regulations dictate that all properties must ensure their loft insulation is at least 100mm thick. If you discover that the thickness of your insulation is below this level, then it is highly recommended that you have it replaced in order to benefit from better thermal efficiency and lower energy bills.
In this article:
