Attic Insulation

🧱 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:

  1. Clear the Loft

  2. Check for Existing Insulation – top up if below 270mm

  3. Install Between Joists – roll out insulation

  4. Add a Second Layer – across joists to reduce thermal bridging

  5. 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 calculator

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