Loft insulation is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways of improving the energy efficiency of your home. By installing loft insulation to a depth of 270mm (11”), you could save around 25% of your heating costs.
Loft insulation can be installed by yourself or by a professional installer. Speak to your local builders merchant or DIY specialist for advice on how to install it, and what protective clothing you should wear.
Loft insulation generally comes in three types – blown mineral wool/blown cellulose fibre, mineral wool quilt, and loose fill. Only the latter two types can be DIY installed.
After you have insulated your loft the temperature inside will be lower, so if you have a tank or pipes in there you’ll need to make sure they are well insulated too, to prevent your water freezing in the winter. But don’t insulate underneath the tank.
You can now buy natural loft insulation (for example, wool, cellulose, shredded Yellow Pages) so why not do your bit for the environment when choosing your loft insulation?
Construction Resources should be able to provide you with further information.
Further information about the schemes that are available to help with the installation of loft insulation is available here.
Contacts
Energy Saving Trust Advice Centre for London
Telephone: 0800 512012
E-mail: advice@est-london.org.uk
Website: www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/london