Insulation saves heat and heat costs money. So, it’s a simple fact that if you’re saving heat, you’re saving money. The more you insulate the more heat you save and the less money you spend. There is no better time than the present to check your existing insulation and make sure your loft is properly insulated for the autumn and winter ahead.
The more you insulate the more you save
If the existing insulation is in good condition and measures 270mm or more in depth, then you shouldn’t need to install more insulation. However, if your loft is full of old insulation which has slumped and degraded, then the last thing you want to do is install more of the same. If you do, someday you’ll return, look at the same scene and repeat the same exercise. Instead, use something that won’t slump or degrade and buy something that lasts. A natural fibre insulation which is thermally bonded with recycled polyester such as Thermafleece British Sheep’s Wool Insulation will ensure the insulation retains its loft and once you insulate, you won’t have to do it again.
There are also many other benefits of installing a natural fibre insulation: As well as keeping in heat, natural fibre insulations will help manage summer heat gain; help with moisture and humidity levels; reduce noise and improve sound quality. They are none itch, safe to install and can improve indoor air quality, sustainability, health and well-being inside your home.
The More Insulation the Better
The more insulation you can install the better, but typically you should install a natural fibre insulation to a depth of 240mm. It is not always necessary to remove your existing insulation. As long as it is in fairly good condition and there is no signs of water damage then you can top up with a good quality natural fibre or recycled polyester insulation.
In most lofts, it’s easy to install a deep layer of insulation. If you decide to board part of your loft you can use loft legs to raise the level of the boarding. This will still allow you to install a deep layer of insulation.
Remember that around 5% of heat is lost through your loft hatch, so it should also be insulated.
In a new property with a well-ventilated loft, a recycled polyester insulation such as SupaSoft Insulation will be very effective. SupaSoft insulation is a great way to use recycled single use plastics. It’s also safe to handle and itch free.
For an older property or if loft ventilation is limited, use a natural fibre insulation such as Thermafleece CosyWool Roll. As well as being safe, sustainable and healthy, natural fibres can help regulate humidity levels. They do this by absorbing moisture and holding it in a safe form. It’s then released it as air around it becomes less humid.
In a nutshell
In a nutshell: Insulation does much more than prevent heat loss so give this some thought when you decide what’s right for you. Choose a good quality insulation which will last the lifetime of your building. You’ll never have to do it again and remember that over its life, insulating is never a costly investment.