loft insulation is the most cost-effective way to reduce your energy bills and cut your carbon emissions. Homes lose a quarter of their heat through the roof and a well-insulated loft will stop this happening, resulting in significant savings and a warmer home.
It also allows you to reclaim your loft space and turn it into a cosy living area, such as a bedroom or office. Whether you want to cut down on wasted energy, save money or create a multipurpose room for your teenagers, it’s an investment that will pay for itself over time.
There are different types of insulation available, from wool blankets to rigid boards. Each type works in a similar way, trapping air pockets to stop heat from passing through and helping you to stay warm. It’s also a good idea to add draught excluders to your loft hatch as this will help reduce cold air coming down into your house – reducing condensation and lowering your bills at the same time.
The first step to insulating your loft is to clear out the space and ensure it’s free from any rubbish. You should then measure your loft space to see how much insulation you’ll need. Remember to add in any water pipes and tanks, and electrical wiring – it’s best to get this done by a qualified electrician.
Most UK builders recommend a depth of around 270mm of mineral wool in your loft. The tables below show the energy savings and CO2 reductions that you could expect from installing modern thick insulation, based on various fuels and installation costs.