Wondering how loft insulation works? At Bundle, we have loft insulation down to a science. Find out how it can help keep your home energy efficient now.
With 25% of household heat escaping through the roof, we all understand the vital role loft insulation plays in retaining warmth and promoting a more energy-efficient home. But have you ever asked yourself, how does loft insulation actually work? In this article, we’re bringing you a deep dive into loft insulation with everything you need to know.
We’ll cover:
Loft insulation is a protective layer of materials placed in your loft or attic to prevent heat from leaving your home through the roof. It acts as a thermal blanket, making sure your living space stays cosy and warm in winter while helping to keep it cool in summer. With good loft insulation, you can save money on energy costs and enjoy a more comfortable living space all year round. Plus, with a reduced need for heating and cooling, you can lower your carbon footprint making loft insulation a great move for the planet too.
There are several types of loft insulation material, each with its own benefits and characteristics:
Mineral wool insulation (often referred to as rock wool or fibreglass insulation), is made from heated and spun rock or glass fibres. It’s great for thermal and sound insulation and keeps your home warm and quiet.
Sheep’s wool insulation is a natural and eco-friendly option that comes from fleece. It excels at keeping your home warm and can absorb and release moisture without losing its insulating ability, helping to maintain comfortable humidity levels. As it’s biodegradable, it brings an extra perk for the environment.
Sheet insulation consists of rigid panels made from materials like polystyrene, polyurethane, or polyisocyanurate. These panels provide excellent insulation while taking up less space, making them ideal for areas where thickness is an issue. They effectively reduce heat transfer and resist moisture, making them suitable for all kinds of climates.
With proper loft insulation, your home stays cosy in the winter and cool in the summer.
By keeping warmth from escaping during chilly months, insulation helps eliminate drafts, making your winter living space nice and snug. In hot weather, it prevents excessive heat from creeping indoors, ensuring a comfortable temperature for the whole household.
Insulating your loft can lead to mega savings on your energy bills. Because good insulation keeps your home at a stable temperature for longer, it reduces the need for constant heating or air conditioning. This efficiency means you not only save money but also gives you peace of mind.
Choosing quality insulation is a win for both your home and the planet. Better insulation means you consume less energy, leading to lower carbon emissions. Plus, by opting for sustainable materials like sheep’s wool, you support the use of natural resources that are kinder to the environment.
Loft insulation operates based on the Second Law of Thermodynamics, which tells us that heat naturally moves from warmer areas to cooler ones. In a well-insulated loft, this means the warm air created inside your home during chilly months stays put, rather than escaping into the cold. This creates a more energy-efficient home and helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
Heat transfer happens through three main processes: conduction, convection, and radiation. Insulation materials are cleverly designed to slow down these processes. Conduction occurs when heat moves through direct contact, so using materials with low thermal conductivity limits this heat transfer. Additionally, effective loft insulation reduces convection – the movement of air that can create uncomfortable drafts. Lastly, reflective insulation plays a role in minimising radiative heat transfer, especially in spaces where there’s a marked temperature difference.
When it comes to loft insulation, the law of diminishing returns comes into play. What does this mean? Initially, adding insulation makes a noticeable difference in energy efficiency and can lower your heating bills. However, after a certain point, adding more insulation delivers smaller benefits. It’s important for homeowners to strike the right balance with insulation levels to enjoy maximum payback without overspending.
While it’s certainly possible to install loft insulation as a DIY project, it’s not advised. Insulation materials can be dangerous to handle without specialist equipment and proper ventilation. There is also your loft space to consider which may have specific challenges such as existing electrical or plumbing systems. In order to get the most out of loft insulation and ensure it’s fitted safely and correctly, it’s always best to consult a professional to handle the project for you.
As national leaders in energy efficiency, we guide you through the entire process of installing loft insulation and saving energy within your home. Once you’re ready to roll, our installers assess and prepare your loft space before installing our premium Knauf Insulation or Isover Spacesaver materials to insulate your loft to the highest standard.
Loft insulation is a fundamental factor in creating an energy-efficient home that prioritises both warmth and sustainability. By retaining heat during the colder months and preventing excessive heat gain in the summer, loft insulation not only enhances the comfort of your living space but also significantly reduces your energy bills.
At Bundle, we are committed to helping homeowners navigate the loft insulation process, ensuring you achieve the best possible results while contributing positively to the environment. Investing in quality loft insulation is not just a practical choice; it is a step towards a cosier home and a healthier planet for future generations.
Use our handy planner tool and get a free quote for loft insulation today.
