How Thick Should Your Loft Insulation Be?
With the sharp rise in energy demand and prices in 2022, it is becoming even more important to have proper home insulation. A quarter of all heat loss occurs through an uninsulated roof, which could be avoided by simply installing or adding extra loft insulation in your home. Besides, fitting loft insulation with the right thickness can help to lower your energy consumption and costs, as well as your impact on the environment.
If you're planning to install or replace your loft insulation, you should first consider how thick it should be. Since 2003, the minimum thickness for loft insulation has been 270 mm. However, this also depends on factors such as materials used for insulation, construction of the building, where you live and so on.
How much loft insulation do you need?
The loft at your home is the space between the roof and the floor of a room. This is where most heat transfer occurs due to density differences between indoors and outdoors. As a result, it is essential to install enough loft insulation to reduce heat loss and keep your home warm during the cold winter and comfortable all year round. While 270 mm is the recommended minimum thickness for new homes and residential properties, it is only sometimes necessary because modern insulation materials have a higher R-value and provide the same level of insulation without being as thick.
Therefore, the required depth for loft insulation can vary depending on the type of material you opt for, whether it's fibreglass, mineral wool or foil board. However, the general rule of thumb is to aim for a minimum thickness of 270 mm, depending on the type of insulation you intend to use for insulation.
Do you need extra loft insulation?
If your existing insulation does not meet the recommended minimum depth of 270 mm, you will require extra loft insulation. Most insulation retailers offer loft insulation rolls in different sizes, ranging from 100 mm to 170 mm. This makes it easier for home and property owners to add layer(s) to their existing loft insulation rather than replace it all, saving both time and money.
Can you have too much loft insulation?
Loft insulation acts as a protective barrier in your home, preventing heat loss during the winter and keeping it comfortable during the summer. It is, therefore, better to install more insulation than the recommended depth as long as you have enough ventilation to avoid air circulation issues.
But, it would be best if you do not overdo it because, at a certain point (or thickness), you will see little to no advantage in saving money and energy at home. In other words, adding extra insulation after the recommended depth is less beneficial. Besides, exceeding the recommended insulation thickness may also lead to more problems with time, from poor ventilation to dampness and condensation issues.
Should I remove old loft insulation before laying new?
In most cases, you only need to remove old loft insulation before laying new since it is easier to fit an additional insulation layer on top of the existing one to meet the minimum recommended thickness for loft insulation. However, old insulation may need to be removed if the new insulation material differs from the existing one. You should also consider removing old loft insulation if you notice any damage on its surface, such as natural wear and tear or mould and mildew growth.
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