Why Is Insulation Important in UK Homes?

Wed, Feb 28, 2024 07:25 CET

Insulation is one of the most efficient ways to save energy in your home as it helps to keep the warmth inside during the winter and helps to keep your home cool in the summer. Winters can be quite harsh in the UK, and without adequate insulation, homeowners could experience a range of health problems due to cold conditions within the home.

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In this article, property and construction expert Thomas Goodman at MyJobQuote.co.uk has teamed up with insulation and roofing expert Craig Young, who is also the vice president at theroofdoctors.net. Together, they have created this guide explaining why insulation is important in UK homes. This guide goes over everything from the importance of insulation, the best types of insulation, and where insulation should be placed in the home.

Why Is Insulation Important?

Improved Comfort

“A well-insulated home maintains a more consistent and comfortable indoor temperature throughout the year. This eliminates cold drafts and prevents rooms from becoming excessively hot, creating a more pleasant living environment," says Young.

If you want to ensure your home is as comfortable as possible throughout the year, it's important to ensure that your home is well-insulated.

Reduced Condensation and Mould Growth

“Poor insulation can lead to condensation problems, especially on cold surfaces like walls and ceilings. This creates a breeding ground for mould growth, which can have negative health impacts and damage the property," says Young. Mould can have devastating effects and can be very dangerous to live with in the long term.

“Proper insulation helps regulate moisture levels within the home, reducing the risk of condensation and mould growth", Young adds.

Save Energy

The UK has a temperate climate with cool winters and mild summers. However, poorly insulated homes lose significant heat in winter and struggle to stay cool in summer. “This leads to increased reliance on heating and cooling systems, driving up energy bills," says Young.

“Proper insulation acts as a barrier, keeping heat in during winter and reducing the need for heating. Conversely, in summer, it prevents excessive heat gain, minimising the need for air conditioning," Young adds.

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

Insulation helps to lower your energy consumption as the heat is retained in your home much better, and there is a lot less heat loss.

“By lowering energy consumption for heating and cooling, proper insulation contributes significantly to reducing a home's carbon footprint. This aligns with the UK's commitment to tackling climate change and achieving net-zero emissions," says Young.

What Are The Best Types of Insulation?

Below, Young goes over the best types of insulation for UK homes:

Loft Insulation

This is the most cost-effective and impactful insulation measure for most UK homes. It involves installing insulation materials like mineral wool, sheep's wool, or cellulose between the rafters in the loft space.

Roof Insulation Boards

These rigid boards are placed directly under the roof tiles or slates, creating a continuous layer of insulation. This is particularly beneficial for loft conversions or homes with limited loft space.

Sprayed Foam Insulation

This is a newer option that involves spraying a liquid foam that expands and fills cavities, providing excellent insulation properties. It's suitable for complex roof shapes or areas with limited access.

Where Should Insulation Be Placed in The Home?

There are certain places in the home where insulation is needed and certain places where it works best for keeping heat in and preventing heat loss.

Loft

Lofts are a primary area for heat loss, making them a crucial space for insulation. Young recommends that you aim for a minimum of 270mm of insulation for maximum results.

Cavity Walls

Cavity wall insulation is a great option in modern UK homes. “These are the hollow spaces between the external and internal walls of most homes", explains Young. “Cavity wall insulation fills these gaps, preventing heat transfer through the walls.”

Floors

“Ground floors, especially those above unheated basements or crawl spaces, can lose significant heat” explains Young. “Floor insulation helps retain warmth and improve comfort.”

Walls

“In some cases, external wall insulation might be necessary, particularly for solid walls or those lacking cavity walls," says Young. This is more common in older or period properties. "This type of insulation installation involves adding layers of insulation to the external side of the wall", Young adds.

Things to Consider

Government Grants and Schemes

The UK government offers various grants and schemes to help homeowners with the cost of insulation installations. Explore these options to help make insulation more affordable.

Seek Expert Advice

Consulting with a qualified energy assessor or insulation specialist can provide personalised recommendations based on your specific home and needs.

Professional Installation

While some DIY insulation options exist, it's highly recommended to hire qualified professionals for proper installation to ensure optimal performance and avoid potential issues.

Final Thoughts

By prioritising proper insulation, you can create a more comfortable, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly home in the UK. Remember, a well-insulated home is an investment that pays off for years to come.

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