A loft insulation fitter is an expert in installing and fitting roof insulation. The insulation is installed between the attic floor and the joists or rafters in the roof space. It reduces the amount of heat that is lost from the property, and it can lower energy bills and make a building more efficient. It can also improve the property’s Energy Performance Certificate rating and increase its value if it is sold.
The insulation is available in a range of different materials, and the type chosen depends on the property’s needs and budget. It can be blown-in or rolled out in sheets. In general, the thicker the insulation, the more expensive it will be to install and replace. Some types of insulation are more fire-resistant than others, and this is a consideration in some properties.
A poorly insulated loft can be a major source of heat loss, and this can lead to higher electricity bills than necessary. A quarter of all heat is lost through the roof, and good loft insulation will reduce energy bills by keeping the living space warm and preventing wasted heating. It will also help to keep the rooms below cool in summer and prevent condensation.
There are several ways to install loft insulation, and it is essential that the work is carried out by a trained installer who is qualified to do so. This is in order to ensure the safety of any electrical cables that run through the attic or loft space. There are also a number of government schemes that can help to pay for or partially fund the installation of new insulation.
An effective and well-fitted loft insulation can last for more than 40 years, making it a worthwhile investment. It can save up to PS590 per year on energy bills, and it will pay for itself many times over in the long term. It can also help to cut carbon emissions, which is important in the fight against climate change.
It is essential to choose a company with a reputable name and reputation in the industry. Checking with the Better Business Bureau is a good place to start. The company should also be registered with BRE (Building Research Establishment), and should have a full insurance policy covering public liability. They should also be able to provide references from previous clients.
The installation of new loft insulation will usually involve removing the old loft boards and then laying down the insulation. In some cases, this may not be possible, and it will then be necessary to re-board the loft space. In these cases, it is advisable to use loft boards that have an insulation layer built in, which will prevent the joists from compressing the insulation and losing its effectiveness.
There are three main installation options for loft insulation: blown-in, batts, and loose fill. Blown-in insulation is a more cost-effective option, but it can be messy and requires an air compressor to install. Batts consist of sheets of compressed fibre and are easier to handle, but they do not provide as much insulation as blown-in insulation. Loose fill insulation consists of bags of fibre that can be easily poured into the loft space, and it is ideal where access to the loft is difficult – such as beneath low-pitched roofs or above gabled dormers.