Loft insulation: often the simplest start
Where the loft is accessible and dry, topping up insulation can be relatively low-disruption. Eaves ventilation, water tanks, pipework, electrical cables and safe storage platforms all need attention. More material is not automatically better if airflow is blocked.
Cavity walls: survey the exposure
Wall age is only a clue. A competent survey should establish whether a cavity exists, whether it is clear and whether the building’s exposure, defects and moisture condition make the proposed system suitable.
Solid walls: treat the building as a system
Internal and external wall insulation change temperature and moisture behaviour. Junctions, floors, roofs, windows, rain exposure and ventilation need a coherent design. This is not a sensible place to rely on a quick sales survey.
Older homes need a moisture strategy
If the property is historic, listed, solid-wall or already affected by damp, seek independent building-physics or conservation advice before selecting a system.
What an insulation quote should show
- Existing construction, defect and moisture findings.
- The exact insulation system, thickness and target performance.
- How ventilation, eaves, cavities and thermal bridges are handled.
- Preparation, making good and protection of services.
- Certification, guarantees and the route if performance is poor.