types of insulation

Effective home insulation is important in the UK, where we experience a wide range of temperatures and varying levels of humidity. From combating the chill of winter to keeping cool during warmer months, proper insulation significantly impacts energy bills and comfort. A variety of materials and methods are available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the most common types of insulation used in UK homes, helping you make informed decisions for your property.

Understanding Heat Transfer and Insulation

To appreciate how insulation works, it’s essential to understand the principles of heat transfer. Heat can move in three ways: conduction, convection, and radiation.

  • Conduction is the transfer of heat through a solid material.
  • Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids (liquids or gases).  
  • Radiation is the transfer of heat through electromagnetic waves.  

Insulation works by resisting these heat transfer processes. The effectiveness of insulation is measured by its thermal resistance, or R-value. A higher R-value indicates better insulation. U-values, on the other hand, measure heat loss; lower U-values are desirable. Different insulation types vary in their ability to resist conduction, convection, and radiation, making them suitable for different applications.  

Common Types of Loft Insulation in the UK

The loft is a crucial area to insulate, as a significant amount of heat can escape through the roof.

  • Mineral Wool: Mineral wool is a popular and versatile loft insulation material. It comes in two main forms:
    • Glass Wool: Made from recycled glass, glass wool is lightweight and cost-effective. It’s particularly good at reducing heat transfer by convection. You’ll often find it in rolls or batts.
    • Rock Wool: Spun from molten rock, rock wool is denser than glass wool and offers excellent fire resistance and acoustic insulation. Slabs are commonly used.
    • Installation involves laying the wool between joists, ensuring adequate thickness. Care should be taken to avoid compressing the material, as this reduces its effectiveness.
  • Fibreglass: Similar to glass wool, fibreglass insulation is made from glass fibres. It’s another affordable option that’s easy to install between loft joists. However, it can be less effective at sound insulation compared to mineral wool.
  • Sheep Wool: A more sustainable choice, sheep wool insulation is made from natural sheep’s fleece. It’s breathable, helping to regulate moisture levels in the loft, and offers good thermal and acoustic performance. Sheep wool is typically available in rolls or batts.

Wall Insulation Options for UK Homes

Walls are another major source of heat loss in homes.

  • Cavity Wall Insulation: Many UK homes have cavity walls, which consist of two brick or blockwork walls with a gap in between.
    • This gap can be filled with insulation materials like mineral wool, polystyrene beads, or polyurethane foam.
    • Cavity wall insulation significantly reduces heat loss and can also help to prevent dampness.
    • Installation requires specialist equipment and should be carried out by qualified professionals.
  • Internal Wall Insulation (IWI): This involves adding insulation to the inside surface of external walls.
    • Common methods include insulated plasterboard, where insulation is bonded to plasterboard, or building a stud wall frame.
    • IWI is useful when external wall insulation isn’t feasible, but it does reduce room size.
  • External Wall Insulation (EWI): This involves applying a layer of insulation to the outside of external walls.
    • EWI systems can be finished with render or cladding, improving the appearance of the building.
    • EWI offers excellent thermal performance and can also protect the walls from the weather.
    • This is a significant undertaking, often requiring planning permission and specialist installers.

Floor Insulation Solutions for UK Properties

Heat can also be lost through the floor, particularly in homes with suspended timber floors.

  • Underfloor Insulation: This is particularly important with underfloor heating systems.
    • Insulation can be installed between floor joists in suspended timber floors.
    • For solid floors, insulation can be placed over or under the concrete slab.
    • Rigid insulation boards like PIR or EPS are commonly used.
  • Solid Floor Insulation: Insulating solid floors can be more challenging.
    • Options include adding a layer of insulation over the existing floor before laying a new floor covering.
    • Alternatively, the floor slab can be excavated and insulated.
    • These methods can be disruptive and expensive.

Other Insulation Types and Their Relevance in the UK

  • Multi-foil Insulation: This type of insulation uses layers of reflective foil and wadding to reduce heat transfer.
    • It’s often used in roofs and walls where space is limited.
  • Spray Foam Insulation: This insulation is sprayed into cavities and expands to fill the space.
    • Open-cell foam provides good air sealing but less thermal resistance.
    • Closed-cell foam offers higher thermal resistance but is more expensive.
    • Spray foam is commonly used in lofts and walls.

Choosing the Right Insulation for Your UK Home 

Selecting the best insulation for your home involves considering several factors:

  • Property Type and Age: Older homes may have different insulation needs than new builds.
  • Budget: Different insulation types have varying costs.
  • Desired Energy Efficiency: Consider your target energy rating and long-term savings.
  • Specific Problem to Solve: Are you trying to reduce heat loss, dampness, or noise?
  • Building Regulations: Ensure compliance with current UK building regulations.

It’s often advisable to seek professional advice to determine the most effective and cost-efficient insulation solution for your specific circumstances.

Proper insulation is a vital investment for any UK home. It enhances comfort, reduces energy bills, and contributes to a more sustainable future. By understanding the different types of insulation available, you can make informed decisions to create a warmer, quieter, and more energy-efficient home.

Your Insulation Needs, Sorted at Online Insulation

At Online Insulation, we offer a wide range of insulation materials to suit all your needs. From loft rolls to wall boards, we provide competitive prices and reliable UK-wide delivery. Explore our selection online and discover how we can help you create a warmer, quieter, and more energy-efficient home.