130mm Recticel GP Insulation Board 2400x1200mm

A well-insulated loft is crucial for a comfortable and energy-efficient home. It acts as a barrier against heat loss in the winter and helps to keep your house cool in the summer. While there are various types of insulation boards for lofts available, insulation boards are a popular choice due to their ease of installation, high thermal performance, and versatility.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of insulation boards suitable for lofts, their benefits, the installation process, and factors to consider when choosing the right insulation for your needs. We’ll also highlight some of the top-performing insulation boards available at Online Insulation Sales, your one-stop shop for all your insulation needs.

Why Insulate Your Loft?

Before we delve into the specifics of insulation boards, let’s understand why loft insulation is so important:

  • Reduced Energy Bills: Heat naturally rises, and without proper insulation, a significant amount of heat can escape through your roof. Loft insulation creates a thermal barrier, preventing heat loss and reducing your reliance on heating systems. This translates to lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint.
  • Improved Comfort: A well-insulated loft helps to maintain a consistent and comfortable temperature throughout your home. It prevents draughts and cold spots, ensuring a cosy living environment in the winter and a cooler home in the summer.
  • Noise Reduction: Insulation boards can also help to reduce noise pollution from outside, creating a quieter and more peaceful living space.
  • Protection Against Damp and Condensation: Insulation helps to regulate temperature and moisture levels in your loft, preventing condensation which can lead to dampness, mould growth, and structural damage.
  • Increased Property Value: A well-insulated home is more energy-efficient and comfortable, making it more attractive to potential buyers and increasing its overall value.

Types of Insulation Boards for Lofts

There are several types of insulation boards suitable for loft applications, each with its own advantages and considerations:

  • Rigid Insulation Boards: These are the most common type of insulation boards for lofts. They are made from rigid materials such as:
    • Polyisocyanurate (PIR): PIR insulation boards offer excellent thermal performance with a high R-value per inch. They are lightweight, moisture-resistant, and easy to install.
    • Expanded Polystyrene (EPS): EPS boards are a cost-effective option with good thermal insulation properties. They are lightweight and easy to handle.
    • Extruded Polystyrene (XPS): XPS boards offer high compressive strength and moisture resistance, making them suitable for applications where the insulation may be subject to weight or moisture.
  • Flexible Insulation Boards: These boards are made from flexible materials such as mineral wool (rockwool or glass wool). They offer good thermal and acoustic performance and can be easily fitted between joists or rafters.
  • Foil-Faced Insulation Boards: These boards have a layer of reflective foil on one or both sides, which helps to reflect heat back into the room. They are often used in conjunction with other insulation materials to improve thermal performance.

Choosing the Right Insulation Boards for Your Loft

Selecting the best insulation boards for your loft depends on several factors:

  • R-Value: This measures the thermal resistance of the insulation. Higher R-values indicate better insulation performance. The recommended R-value for loft insulation is typically between 6.0 and 7.0.
  • Thickness: The thickness of the insulation boards will affect the R-value. Thicker boards generally provide better insulation.
  • Board Size: Choose board sizes that are easy to handle and fit within your loft space.
  • Existing Insulation: If you have existing insulation in your loft, you may need to consider its type and thickness when choosing new insulation boards.
  • Budget: Insulation boards are available at various price points. Consider your budget when making your selection.
  • Specific Requirements: If you have specific requirements, such as fire resistance or soundproofing, choose insulation boards that meet those needs.

At Online Insulation Sales, we offer a wide range of high-quality insulation boards suitable for loft applications. Here are some of our popular products:

  • Celotex GA4000 PIR Insulation Boards: These versatile boards offer excellent thermal performance and are available in various thicknesses to suit different needs.
  • Kingspan TP10 Thermapitch PIR Insulation Boards: Specifically designed for pitched roofs, these boards offer high thermal efficiency and moisture resistance.
  • Knauf Earthwool Loft Roll 44: This mineral wool insulation provides good thermal and acoustic performance and is easy to install.
  • Isover Spacesaver Loft Roll: Another mineral wool option offering high thermal performance and compression packaging for easier handling.

Installing Insulation Boards in Your Loft

Insulating your loft with insulation boards is a relatively straightforward process, but it’s important to follow the correct steps to ensure optimal performance:

  1. Prepare the Loft Space: Clear any clutter and ensure the loft is well-ventilated.
  2. Measure and Calculate: Measure the floor area of your loft to determine how much insulation you need.
  3. Choose and Purchase: Select the appropriate insulation boards based on the factors mentioned earlier and purchase them from a reputable supplier like Online Insulation Sales.
  4. Lay the Boards: Start by laying the boards between the joists, ensuring a snug fit. Cut boards to size as needed using a sharp knife or saw.
  5. Second Layer (if needed): If you require a higher R-value, install a second layer of insulation boards perpendicular to the first layer, ensuring all joints are staggered.
  6. Seal Gaps: Use foil tape to seal any gaps or joints between the boards to prevent air leakage and maintain a continuous thermal barrier.

Safety Tips:

  • Always wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves, a dust mask, and eye protection, when handling insulation materials.
  • Ensure the loft is well-ventilated to avoid inhaling dust and fibres.
  • Take care when working at height and use appropriate safety equipment.

Benefits Beyond Warmth

While the primary function of loft insulation is to improve thermal performance, it also offers several other benefits:

  • Soundproofing: Insulation boards can help to reduce noise transfer from outside and between floors, creating a quieter and more peaceful home.
  • Improved Air Quality: By preventing condensation and dampness, insulation boards contribute to a healthier indoor environment.
  • Fire Safety: Many insulation boards have good fire-resistant properties, enhancing the fire safety of your home.

Need Help with Your Loft Insulation Project?

If you’re unsure about which insulation boards are right for your loft or need assistance with the installation process, our team of experts at Online Insulation Sales is here to help. We can provide you with personalised advice, answer your questions, and ensure you have everything you need to complete your project successfully.

Browse our wide range of insulation boards online or contact us today for expert guidance.