How Loft Insulation Reduces Heat Loss

Considering the fact that over 95% of heat loss in a home occurs through the roof, the importance of loft insulation should not be undermined.

We explore how loft insulation reduces heat loss, and why spray foam offers the most cost-effective solution overall…

Adding insulation to roofs is simple, affordable and the most effective way of reducing heat transfer. So why don’t more people do it?

Perhaps the answer revolves around common misconceptions. Many homeowners mistakenly believe that ample insulation in their loft space equates to adequate retention of heat.Unfortunately, this is usually not the case. Older materials may have functioned effectively in the past but over time, their efficacy is sorely compromised, with lagging and sagging inevitably leading to air leaks.

Air leaks don’t just compromise cosy conditions-they also compromise your fuel costs as well. Indeed, with the persistent price hikes, it’s easy to feel attacked on all fronts.

You can’t control the price the suppliers charge-but you can control the overall price you pay, by reducing your energy usage overall. Loft insulation is one of the best ways of achieving this aim. It has a direct effect on the amount of fuel needed to produce heat.

The benefits are obvious-but how should you start?

Your first port of call should be assessing the accessibility of your loft, as this will determine the most appropriate method for the task at hand.

Let’s take a look at accessibility in a little more detail:

• Accessible lofts are insulated with felt-like insulating material like mineral wool. This material is available on most home-goods stores.
• Inaccessible lofts need loose insulating material that can be blown to loft by an installer.

Since most lofts are accessible, people can easily insulate their lofts following DIY methods, although this should only be attempted as a last resort.

It is far better to hire an experienced installer, as they know what to look for, and address all leaks to achieve the best results.  Although a do it yourself job may be initially cheaper, the costs involved in rectifying a botched attempt are considerable.

Moral of the story? Get it right the first time by choosing a licensed contractor.

Loft Insulation: Key Considerations

The great thing about choosing a reputable company is that they adhere to professional standards. They will:

• Avoid squashing down the insulation material to the loft, as they know this makes it less effective.
• Ensure that they don’t block air vents.
• Keep electric fittings open to prevent overheating of the material.
• Use protective gear like mask and gloves while working with insulation material like mineral wool.

Unlike other products, spray foam enables your building to breathe, ensuring adequate ventilation that prevents condensation, and protects against moisture, mould and mildew. Sorted!

Three Types Of Loft Space And How To Insulate Them

1. Loft with joists regularly spaced: Make two layers of insulating material like mineral wool to insulate this type of loft. The first layer will be between the joists, and the second layer will be over the joists.
2. Loft with joists irregularly spaced: Lose insulation material between the joists. The material should be in granule form (eg. cork, paper, vermiculite or mineral wool.)
3. Loft with difficult access: Only blown insulation material can be used for insulating an inaccessible loft.

Why Spray Foam Is Ideal for Insulating Lofts

Spray foam utilises the latest insulation technology to provide a streamlined insulation solution.

Unlike other products, it enables your building to breathe, ensuring adequate ventilation that prevents condensation, and protects against mould and mildew.

Most lofts possess numerous nooks and crannies, making them decidedly difficult to insulate by traditional means.

In contrast, spray foam expands up to 100 times its original size, enabling it to insulate even the most hard-to-reach places with ease. Perfect!

Love up your loft with the help of spray foam insulation. Request your free site survey today by calling: 0800 1700 636, or by simply clicking the button below!