
🧱 Why Attic Insulation Matters
Proper attic (or loft) insulation can reduce heat loss by up to 25%, cutting your energy bills and improving your home’s comfort and EPC rating. It’s one of the most effective ways to improve energy efficiency in UK homes.
🔗 See how heat loss is detected with a thermal survey »
🧰 Best Types of Attic Insulation Rolls
When choosing the best insulation for your attic, consider:
Mineral Wool Rolls: Common and cost-effective
Sheep’s Wool: Eco-friendly and breathable
Multifoil Insulation: Reflective layers, ideal for tight loft spaces
Rigid PIR Boards: Higher insulation per thickness, used for warm lofts
🔗 Compare PIR boards and insulation materials »
🧵 How to Lay Insulation in Your Attic
Installing attic insulation rolls is a great DIY project if your loft is easy to access.
Step-by-Step:
Clear the Loft
Check for Existing Insulation – top up if below 270mm
Install Between Joists – roll out insulation
Add a Second Layer – across joists to reduce thermal bridging
Add Walkway Boards – if needed for storage
🧯 Don’t block ventilation gaps – this prevents condensation build-up.
🔗 Professional Installation Available Here »
📏 How Much Insulation Do You Need in Your Attic?
The recommended depth in the UK is 270mm of mineral wool. For higher performance, 300–400mm with hybrid layering (e.g., PIR + wool) can deliver even better U-values.
How thick should insulation be in attic? ➜ 270mm+
How much insulation in attic? ➜ Measure existing & top up
How much insulation do I need in my attic? ➜ Use your loft’s square metre area × target depth
🔗 Use our free loft insulation thickness calculator below
🐭 How to Get Rid of Mice in Attic Under Insulation
If you’ve found signs of mice (droppings, scratching, gnawed insulation), act fast:
Remove insulation rolls carefully and inspect beneath
Seal gaps with steel wool + caulking
Install rodent mesh at soffits/vents
Use traps & peppermint oil deterrents
Avoid poisons in roof spaces—dead rodents can cause odour and attract pests.
🔗 Roof inspection with drone and thermal scan service »
🔄 Cold Loft vs Warm Loft – Which Is Better?
Cold Loft: Insulation laid between joists, roof space remains unheated
Warm Loft: Insulation fixed under rafters, entire loft kept warm
Cold loft = cheaper and easier. Warm loft = ideal if loft is used as a room.
🛠️ DIY vs Professional Attic Insulation
DIY saves money, suitable for basic joist roll installs
Hire a pro if you have:
a boarded loft
need multifoil or PIR
condensation concerns
You may be eligible for free loft insulation under UK government schemes.
🔗 Check eligibility for free loft insulation grants »
💡 Insulation Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t compress the insulation
Don’t block eaves ventilation
Don’t use foil-faced boards on cold joists without vapour control
Don’t store items directly on insulation
❓ FAQs: Attic & Loft Insulation
Q: Can I over-insulate my attic?
A: Yes—too much insulation can cause ventilation and damp issues if not done correctly.
Q: Is foil insulation enough?
A: Not on its own—it should be layered with mineral wool or PIR boards.
Q: Will attic insulation stop condensation?
A: Yes, when installed with proper airflow and vapour control layers.
✅ Conclusion
Attic insulation remains one of the most cost-effective energy upgrades in UK homes. Whether you DIY or hire a professional, understanding your material choices, proper installation methods, and maintenance is essential.
Attic Insulation Calculator
Estimate how much insulation you need based on attic size and desired thickness.
Need help converting your attic size?
📐 Use our square foot to square metre calculatorExplore our Blogs
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