10th August 2022
It is estimated that up to 2/3 of homes in the UK have an EPC rating of D or less. Energy efficiency in the UK must improve in order to limit energy consumption, and poorly insulated buildings should be a thing of the past. So, how can we improve home insulation? Read on to find out.
Which areas should you insulate?
The key areas to insulate are those that let heat escape from the building. This includes:
Roof – The roof of a poorly insulated building will lose about ¼ of heat. Loft insulation is an effective way of preventing heat loss through the roof.
Walls – Up to 1/3 of heat loss is down to the walls of a property. The type of insulation best suited will depend on the kind of building but will usually be either solid wall insulation or cavity wall insulation.
Types of Insulation
Solid Wall Insulation
Buildings with solid walls lose significantly more heat than those with cavity walls. Most homes built with solid walls do not have insulation as it can be pricey and challenging to do. However, the reduction in energy consumption is worth the investment, and solid walls can be insulated from the outside or inside.
Loft Insulation
Many homes with loft space already have loft insulation. However, it is wise to check the thickness and condition of the insulation and upgrade it if necessary. A depth of 270mm is recommended, but some properties invest in 300mm to maximise insulation. Loft insulation can either be on the loft floor or under the roof and is usually done using either foil-back felt or mineral wool. Other materials, such as spray foam, can be used but be sure to seek advice from a professional before doing this.
Cavity Wall Insulation
Cavity walls are external walls with two sections that have a small gap between them. You can often spot cavity walls as the bricks are in an even lengthways pattern. Cavity wall insulation fills the air space between the walls with mineral wool or foam, reducing heat loss significantly.
Draught Prevention
Windows, doors, chimneys and fireplaces that are not correctly sealed cause a draught and loss of heat. Draught-proofing is a cost-effective solution with many DIY draught-proofing options available.
With a variety of insulation solutions, there is no reason why a home should be losing excessive amounts of heat. Insulation is something you should discuss before buying or renting a property.
For information about Taylor Freeman Kataria’s services, contact us on 0208 5999911.