Home insulation slows the transfer of heat in or out of a building, consisting of materials like wool, mineral wool, fibreglass, and polystyrene.
The best type for your home will depend on your climate, its construction and your overall budget.
It helps to trap hot air within your home in the winter. This can save you money on your energy bills due to a requirement for less heating. It can also make your home more comfortable as it aids regulation of the temperature inside.
What are the types of home insulation?
You can warm your home through insulation using various methods, including:
Loft Insulation
Loft insulation, with a lifespan of up to 40 years, prevents the loss of generated heat in your. This can escape easily through an uninsulated loft.
Install insulation above the rafters in the presence of a loft conversion.
Cavity Wall
Prevent heat from escaping through the walls by pumping insulation into the gap, known as the cavity. This cavity exists between the inside out inside of the home and without insulation can easily create a cold environment.
Solid Wall
In older properties with solid walls, there’s only one layer between the inside and outside of the home, leading to a significant amount of heat escaping.
The addition of an extra layer internally with insulation added within can help stop the loss of this heat.
Floor
The ground floor of a property can cause draughts to enter the home – underfloor insulation can stop this. Further insulate the home by sealing gaps in skirting boards.
You may be eligible for government grants to help pay for insulation. To find out if you are eligible, contact Energy Advice Helpline.
How to choose the right kind for the UK
To choose the right insulation for your home, consider the climate you live in, the construction of your home and your budget. Remember to do your research before making a decision. This energy-efficient measure is a wise investment that can save you money and make your home more comfortable.
Here are some additional tips for choosing the right insulation for your home:
- Ensure the insulation is rated for the climate you live in. For the UK, it needs to be suited to a cold and wet climate.
- Choose insulation that is made from recycled materials.
- Install the insulation properly to ensure it is effective. Due to health and safety risks, we also advocate for wearing the correct PPE or having a professional install it for you.
- Get a professional to inspect your insulation regularly to make sure it is still in good condition and still operating as a cost-effective method of reducing your energy costs.
Government Grants for Insulation
ECO4, or the Energy Company Obligation, offers government grants to assist homeowners in the UK in enhancing the energy efficiency of their properties.
Utilise these grants to install insulation in walls, attics, and crawl spaces, as well as to replace windows and doors. In some cases, grants may also be available for the purchase of energy-efficient appliances.
The Great British Insulation Scheme can see you given help towards installing insulation in your home.
If you are interested in applying for a government grant for insulation in the UK, you can visit the Free Heating Scheme website.
Here we can help you gain the right access to the grants available to you and start you on your journey to a greener home.