Insulating a property is a key part of any building or renovation project and it offers several benefits, from improved energy efficiency to reduced heating bills. When it comes to choosing insulation for your project, there are a variety of options available and there is a solution for every application. Two popular choices are insulation rolls and insulation boards, both of which are effective in reducing heat transfer. However, they have some key differences. If you’ve been looking at insulation products online and you’re wondering what the difference is between insulation rolls and boards, keep reading today. Below we have explored these two options in more detail, helping you make an informed decision for your insulation needs.

Structure and Material

    Insulation Rolls

Insulation rolls are flexible sheets of insulation made of various materials such as fibreglass and mineral wool or natural fibres like sheep’s wool. They typically come in long rolls that can easily be cut to size to fit between studs, joists or rafters and there are several thicknesses to choose from. Commonly, insulation rolls are often the cheapest way to thermally insulate your building.

    Insulation Boards

On the other hand, insulation boards are rigid panels made of materials like PIR (polyisocyanurate) and EPS (expanded polystyrene). These boards are available in different thicknesses and sizes, and they can also be easily cut to fit specific spaces. Insulation boards are a great way to increase energy efficiency and reduce your carbon footprint.

Installation Process

    Insulation Rolls

More often than not, insulation rolls are straightforward to install, making them a popular choice for DIY projects. They can simply be unrolled and cut to fit the desired area. Insulation rolls are most commonly used in loft spaces and it’s a flexible option for hard-to-access spaces. When installing this insulation product, it’s key to ensure it’s carefully secured in place and there are no gaps that could compromise its effectiveness.

    Insulation Boards

Insulation boards are also simple to install, but they sometimes require some additional steps when compared to insulation rolls. They can usually be cut using a utility knife or a saw to fit the required dimensions and they can be attached to surfaces using adhesive or mechanical fixings. Insulation boards are commonly used for cavity wall insulation projects and floor insulation projects where large surfaces need to be covered. 

Versatility and Application

    Insulation Rolls

Insulation rolls are versatile and can be used in lots of different areas of a building. As touched on above, they are commonly used in attic spaces, but they can also be beneficial to install in wall cavities and floor joists. Insulation rolls are suitable for both new constructions and retrofitting existing buildings. They can easily be manoeuvred around obstacles like electrical wires and plumbing, making them a flexible option for different spaces.

    Insulation Boards

Due to their rigidity, insulation boards may not be as suitable for applications that require flexibility or fitting into irregular spaces. As mentioned, they’re often used in cavity walls and floors, but they can also be used as roof insulation. Rigid insulation boards are a staple of the construction industry and this type of insulation offers several benefits despite it being less flexible than insulation rolls. 

Buy Insulation Online Today 

Hopefully, the information above will be beneficial if you’re trying to decide whether you should use insulation rolls or insulation boards for your next project. Ultimately, both of these insulation products have their own advantages and are suitable for different insulation needs. To ensure you’re opting for the best solution, carefully consider your project requirements and explore the different types of insulation available on the market. If you want to buy insulation online and you’re looking for a trusted supplier, take a look at the Online Insulation website. We stock a vast range of insulation products from industry-leading brands like Celotex, Kingspan, Rockwool, Knauf and many more. We pride ourselves on providing our customers with the best insulation materials at the best prices. Our expert team can provide you with some informed and impartial advice when choosing between different insulation products, helping you to ensure you’re investing in the right solution.