What is the best thickness for loft insulation?

270mm

If you can get into the loft, measure the thickness of the insulation that’s already there. Since 2003, current building regulations recommend a depth of at least 270mm (mineral or glass wool) in the loft – use this as a starting point rather than a finishing line to see larger savings.

Should I remove old loft insulation before laying new?

In most circumstances removing your old insulation isn’t necessary and it can actually be quite beneficial to leave it. This is as most insulation will retain its thermal properties so leaving it in place will mean that you continue to benefit from it whilst also having an additional layer of insulation on top!

What is the best material to insulate a loft?

Firm boards of either synthetic or natural materials, this is the best solution for insulating the underside of your roof. The boards provide highly effective insulation for your loft space and can also be decorated over.

Can I insulate my loft myself?

If your loft is easy to access and has no damp or condensation problems, it should be easy to insulate – and in many cases, it is possible to do it yourself. If access is easy and your loft joists are regular, you can use rolls of mineral wool insulation.

Can you put too much insulation in loft?

Lofts can’t just chip off a layer of insulation, so the need to breathe is far more important. So, can too much loft insulation cause condensation? Yes it can, and it can cause havoc in your home as well.

Should loft insulation go to the edges?

Insulation should be continued right to the edge of the ceilings but it shouldn’t block the eaves’ ventilation. Ventilation is vital to ensure the necessary air movement to prevent condensation from water vapour, as this can lead to decay of the structural timbers.

How often should loft insulation be replaced?

The majority of insulation products can last between around 80 to 100 years, which is definitely impressive. That’s the good news, but it isn’t the end of the story.

Can you put new insulation over old?

You can absolutely new insulation over old insulation… as long as it isn’t wet. Energy Star advises as follows: “If it… appears that the insulation [is wet or] has previously been wet, you should look for the cause and repair the problem to prevent a reoccurrence. Remove any wet insulation.

Can you have too much loft insulation?

How can I insulate my loft cheaply?

1. Blanket and Rolls. An inexpensive and DIY project, blanket, batts and rolls are types of insulation that are typically made from glass-fibres. This kind of insulation is designed to fit in between and above joists and roof trusses and even within walls, making it very easy to work with!

Should loft insulation be pushed up to the eaves?

Don’t pack it in: squashing insulation to fit the space seriously compromises its effectiveness. Also avoid pushing the insulation into the eaves to keep ventilation paths at the edge of the roof well aired and roof timbers dry.

Can you lay new insulation over old?

Do you need an air gap for insulation?

Insulation is technically a solid with a lot of air in it therefore, it is NOT an air gap. You literally must have a VOID, nothing in the air gap except air itself. So if you are installing under a roof or in a wall, you must create an air gap.

Can I put new insulation over old?

Can you lay insulation over electrical wires in attic?

Yes, you absolutely can. You can lay insulation around the junction boxes as well. Making sure that the insulation is of a fiberglass material will not only ensure a fireproof setup but also reduce airflow from the home through the attic.

Can I have too much loft insulation?

Can you put too much insulation in attic?

It’s possible to over-insulate an attic as too much will cause moisture buildup and eventually result in mold. Eventually, adding more insulation leads to diminishing returns in trapping heat as well.

Do you need a gap between insulation and loft boards?

Gap between insulation and loft boards
If using rigid insulation boards to insulate your loft there must be a gap between the roof covering and the insulation to allow air to circulate. This prevents any build-up of warm air that could lead to condensation.

Can you use old duvets as insulation in a loft?

All types of duvets can be used as loft insulation including synthetic duvets. Just lay out in the loft, avoiding any electric cables. Use carefully and sparingly, an old duvet will not be as fire resistant as proper loft insulation.

Can you put too much insulation in your attic?

Should I insulate my attic floor or ceiling?

roof insulation is no-contest. The floor wins every time. Insulating the floor is standard practice for an unfinished attic space. The exception to this rule takes place when families opt to convert an unfinished attic space into something usable or livable.

Can I insulate the underside of my roof?

Open-cell spray polyurethane foam or closed-cell spray polyurethane foam (ccSPF) insulation can be sprayed along the underside of the roof sheathing to provide a conditioned and insulated attic space that can be durable and efficient in all climate zones (see Figure 1).

How often should attic insulation be replaced?

15-20 years
However, due to its construction with natural materials, eventually the product will lose effectiveness. Fiberglass insulation typically needs to be replaced 15-20 years into it’s life, as it can easily become dirty, wet, moldy, and ineffective if there’s a roof leak or water damage of any kind.

What comes first insulation or electrical?

Wiring. It is important that wiring is done before insulation is put into place in new construction. Holes need to be drilled into the frame and wires run throughout the walls. Trying to do this kind of work around insulation would provide needless obstacles for the electricians to work around.

Should wiring go behind insulation?

Usually, when you’re insulating a wall, you run the wiring through the middle of the insulation. For stuff like regular fibreglass, you can pull it apart in two layers and slide one layer behind the wiring and put one on top. That way the wiring doesn’t compress the insulation one way or the other.