What types of home insulation are there?
Originally published 21 October 2020. Some figures and rules have since changed, including the Green Homes Grant which has since closed - see our latest guides.
Home insulation improves warmth, comfort and energy efficiency by preventing heat loss through roofs, walls and floors. Which methods work best depends on a property’s age, structure and condition.
Every property benefits from different insulation approaches:
- Loft insulation
- Cavity wall insulation
- Solid wall insulation
- External wall insulation
- Underfloor insulation
The types of home insulation
A heating survey identifies which insulation improvements would maximise savings for your specific property.
Loft and roof insulation
Uninsulated homes lose significant heat through the roof. Loft insulation lasts 40+ years and provides substantial long-term savings.
- Cold loft insulation insulates above the top floor ceiling, preventing heat escaping into an unused loft.
- Warm loft insulation is placed under the roof, creating a heated loft space suitable for storage.
- Room in roof insulation is required when converting a loft into living space, insulating the walls and ceilings of the heated room.
Cavity wall insulation
Applicable to properties built between 1920 and 2000, this method fills wall cavities by drilling small holes and pumping insulation in without interior disruption.
Solid wall insulation (inner)
Solid walls release twice the heat of cavity walls. Pre-1920 properties typically have solid walls. Interior insulation is fixed to walls with render applied, reducing room dimensions slightly.
External wall insulation
More expensive than interior methods but it eliminates indoor disruption. It provides weatherproofing and soundproofing while reducing heat loss and draughts.
Underfloor insulation
Cheaper than wall or loft options with modest annual savings (around £60). Suitable for ground floors or timber floors above unheated spaces.
What types of home insulation are right for you?
An expert survey identifies where heat is lost and recommends efficiency improvements tailored to your property. If you would like to talk to us about insulating your home, our team is happy to help.