How and why you should effectively insulate your loft

Our introductory article on energy efficiency briefly outlined some of the ways that we could reduce our total energy usage around the home and now we’ll start exploring more about the mechanics of each of those methods.

First in the series is how to effectively insulate your loft according to the latest recommended government and EU guidelines. Up to a third of the heat generated inside a home can leak through the roof if it is not correctly insulated. That is a significant proportion of your heating bill, especially when insulating a loft is such a relatively simple procedure for the experts. Merely installing 270mm of loft insulation can cut your annual home heating bill by up to 20% - a considerable saving!

How it works?

Many UK properties already have insulated lofts, but unless that insulation was fitted recently it is unlikely to be of the current minimum recommended EU guideline depth of 270mm. Take a quick look in your loft and if you find the depth of the insulation material to be less than the guideline depth you should arrange for more insulation to be fitted.

Loft insulation materials stop heat loss by trapping air within its fibres, thus preventing movement of heated air through the material and out through the roof. Dependent upon the type of material used the installation depth should be up 270mm. There are three common types of insulation materials:

• Mineral wool quilt
• Blown mineral wool
• Blown cellulose fibre

Quilt is the material most likely to be found at your local DIY store and can easily be rolled out in the loft space on top of existing insulation, but the other two materials should ideally only be installed by trained personnel using special machinery.

Pay for the experts

The National Insulation Association recommends that any loft insulation is fitted by professionals. That is because a consistently high energy efficiency standard depends upon insulating the entire loft, including those areas across the top of ceiling joists thus avoiding a condition known as ‘cold-bridging’. The loft hatch, pipes and water tanks may also need insulation to prevent freezing in winter. In addition, experts will ensure that there is adequate ventilation otherwise condensation could occur in the loft and that may have safety implications involving any electrical wiring or fittings present in the loft.

Likely cost vs. Likely savings

A new loft installation will pay back for itself in as little as three years, and of course that does not include the lower wear and tear placed on your boiler as a result of not having to work hard to heat the loft. But as well as saving you cash, having an effectively insulated loft will also lessen the effect of global warming and therefore climate change. Finally, dependent upon personal circumstances grants may be available to pay for loft installation, so check with your local council before paying for any work.

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