What are the benefits of loft insulation?
Insulating your loft is one of the best home improvements you can make to help reduce your energy bills. But the benefits of loft insulation don’t stop there.
In this post, you’ll find eight top reasons for properly insulating your loft – it’s time to turn your attention to your neglected attic space!
The benefits of loft insulation
1. Reduced energy bills
Saving money on household bills is a key priority for many homeowners, especially with the fluctuations in energy prices in recent years.
In an uninsulated home, up to 25% of heat can be lost through the roof. However, loft insulation helps to keep the heat in, meaning your heating won’t have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature.
The upshot? You’ll see a reduction in your household energy usage, which translates as lower energy bills!
In fact, you could see savings of up to £315 a year, according to the Energy Saving Trust. Loft insulation really is worth the investment!
2. Increased energy efficiency
The rise in energy costs and the desire to lower our carbon footprint has made energy efficiency a keen focus for many homeowners.
As we mentioned above, a properly insulated loft helps to increase your home’s energy efficiency by retaining the warmth that your heating system creates.
In turn, you’ll not only enjoy a more ambient home, with reduced energy bills, but you could increase your home’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating, which is important if you decide to rent or sell your property.
3. A more comfortable home
You’d be forgiven for focusing on the benefits of loft insulation during the colder months, but it actually has a positive impact year-round.
Loft insulation helps to regulate the temperature inside your home throughout the year. In winter, it stops heat from escaping, and in summer, it prevents the sun’s heat from penetrating through the roof.
You’ll notice a warmer home in winter (without having to crank the thermostat up so high!) and a cooler indoor environment during the hotter months.
4. More environmentally friendly
The additional benefit of loft insulation is that it can lower your home’s carbon emissions.
By using less energy to heat your home (because it’s not evaporating through the roof!) you’ll reduce your reliance on fossil fuels, which lessens your impact on the environment.
So if you’re keen to explore eco-home improvements that will help combat climate change, loft insulation should be on your list!
5. Increased property value
There are several ways to add value to your home – some cost more than others.
One of the benefits of loft insulation is how little it costs compared to the value it could add to your home. Both for the reasons outlined above and the potential increase in value for the property market.
A well-insulated property with a good EPC rating is more attractive to buyers and renters, who will reap the rewards of your energy-efficient upgrades!
6. Preventing condensation and damp
Did you know, loft insulation can also help reduce the risk of condensation and damp in your home?
Many UK homes struggle with damp, when the warm air inside comes into contact with cold surfaces – such as an uninsulated roof. This creates moisture, which can result in damp and mould.
However, loft insulation has the benefit of creating a thermal barrier, reducing the temperature difference between the inside and the outside, helping to keep your home dry and mould-free.
7. Long-lasting and low maintenance
Professionally installed loft insulation lasts for decades, continuing to benefit your home year after year.
You won’t need to worry about regular upkeep either – most loft insulation materials are durable and moisture-resistant, making it a cost-effective home improvement.
8. Government grants are available
Finally, the last benefit of loft insulation is that it’s a home improvement that can be made more affordable with government schemes and incentives.
Examples of schemes include the ECO4 Scheme and The Great British Insulation Scheme.
Eligibility criteria apply, but it’s well worth checking what grants are available to help reduce the upfront costs of installation.
How much does professional loft installation cost?
Loft insulation varies in price depending on the type of insulation you choose, and the complexity and scope of the job.
As a guide, expect to pay around:
- £12 per m² for loose-fill insulation
- £35 per m² for sheet insulation
- £37 per m² for spray foam insulation
These ballpark figures are for materials only. In addition, you’ll need to budget for labour costs for the installation, which average around £250 per day.
Check out our loft insulation cost guide for more details.
Contact or pay a trade through Checkatrade and you’re covered by our 12-month guarantee of up to £1,000*
Find a loft insulation specialist near you
Loft insulation is a smart, long-term investment in your home. Whether you’re looking to reduce your energy bills, lower your carbon footprint, or create a more comfortable home, we can help.
Professional installation will ensure your loft is insulated to a high standard, guaranteeing long-lasting benefits for your home.
All our members are checked and approved, so you know you’re getting the real deal.
Search your postcode to find a loft insulation specialist in your area.
FAQs
How thick should loft insulation be?
When deciding what thickness of loft insulation you need, consider that the current EEC programme suggests a minimum depth of 270mm.
How much loft insulation do I need?
Firstly, you’ll need to carefully measure the space, making you don’t step between your loft joists. You can then reduce your final measurements by 10% to account for the joists themselves.
What is the best loft insulation?
You’ll need to consider your loft itself before deciding what the best insulation material will be. For example, blanket insulation is easy to install but can be difficult to fit around obstructions. Alternatively, blown-fibre insulation is great for hard-to-access areas but can be costly.
More details on the different options can be found in our loft insulation cost guide.
How long does loft insulation last?
This depends on a range of different factors, but most insulation can last up to 80 years. However, your insulation will last less time if there are any leaks in your loft, if it’s installed incorrectly, if there are rodents living in your loft, or if there is any mould build-up.
Which tradesperson should I use for the job?
For long-lasting, highly efficient loft insulation, we’d recommend hiring an insulation specialist.
What types of loft insulation are there?
Find out more about the types of loft insulation available and how they’re installed in our handy guide. In summary, these are the main types of loft insulation:
Blanket loft insulation
Blanket insulation is sold by the roll. It’s easy to install and comes in various materials such as fibreglass, mineral fibre, and sheep’s wool.
The main downsides include the higher price for sheep’s wool and the potential issues with installing it – mainly due to its bulk and the fact it doesn’t neatly fit in small spaces or around obstacles.
Loose-fill loft insulation
Loose-fill insulation is often made from materials such as cork granules, mineral wool, and cellulose fibre. Popular due to the availability of greener alternatives, loose-fill insulation is great for ensuring an entire area is covered.
That said, it needs to be installed with safety equipment to avoid skin irritation or breathing in harmful fibres. It can also come loose in more draughty lofts.
Sheet loft insulation
Used on the sloping sides of roofs, sheet insulation is a greener option that is perfect for loft conversions and covering plasterboards. It’s also highly insulating and often comes with its own attachment system.
Some downsides include higher production costs and the overall expense.
Spray foam insulation
Also known as ‘blown-fibre insulation,’ installing spray foam requires a professional tradesperson. On the plus side, it’s quick to install and light to handle and cut, making it ideal for difficult-to-reach areas.
That said, it’s the priciest option and less suitable for draughty lofts.
However, please be aware that some mortgage lenders will not lend for a house with spray foam insulation. This is because spray foam insulation can restrict the air circulation in the loft, which can potentially lead to condensation and roof supports weakening or rotting.
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