Attic Insulation:  A Fast & Reliable Home Energy Upgrade. * But Make Sure You Define Your Attic Space Properly *

Attic Insulation is a popular starting point for a lot of Home Energy Upgrade projects and while it may not be the most glamorous home improvement project, it’s definitely an investment that can pay dividends. It can quickly improve the comfort levels in your home and give you a fast return on investment.

While Attic Insulation may seem very straightforward,  one key point worth mentioning here is to outline what exactly is considered attic space.

This is particularly important if you applying for a grant for Attic Insulation, as the SEAI requires that all attic spaces in the home must be insulated properly and thoroughly in order to qualify for the Attic insulation grant.

Attic Spaces areas can include:

• Sloped sections
• Room in roof  (attic space converted into a room)
• Knee walls / alcoves
• Flat roofs / extension
• Conservatory roof
• Porch roof
• Bay window roof

As up to 30% of your home’s heat can be lost through the roof,  it makes sense to look at the full attic space first and invest in heat retention before looking at heat generation. There really is no point in spending lots of money trying to generate heat only for it to escape through the roof.

Our primary pathway when designing a home energy upgrade solution is to focus first on the fabric of the building, and doing what is necessary to optimise heat retention, followed by heat generation using renewable energy sources where feasible.

Why Insulate Your Attic Space?

Attic spaces can be a major source of heat loss. This is particularly true in older homes where the insulation is usually inadequate and sometimes even non-existent. As heat rises, it can escape through the attic, rafters, and roof, leaving your home feeling very chilly and leading to high energy bills. Properly insulating your attic can significantly reduce heat loss and help to keep your home warm and cosy.

How much attic insulation do you need?

The amount of insulation you need depends on the size of your attic and the quality of the insulation used. You should have a minimum of 300mm (12″) of good-quality insulation on the floor of your attic space.

We can determine the appropriate amount of insulation required for your home during a site survey or Home Energy Assessment.

What are the benefits of Attic Insulation?

There are numerous benefits to insulating your attic areas, including:

• Lower energy bills:  by reducing heat loss, attic insulation can lower your heating bills.
• Increased comfort:  with proper insulation, your home will be warmer and more comfortable during the winter months.
• Reduced carbon footprint:  by using less energy to heat your home, you’ll reduce your carbon emissions.
• Increased home value:  a well-insulated home is more energy-efficient and therefore more attractive to potential buyers.

Are there different types of Attic insulation available?

Yes, there are several types of Attic Insulation available and vary in terms of their insulating properties and cost.  While most are made from cellulose, there are also natural types of insulation including Rockwool, Sheep’s wool, and Lamb’s wool. However, due to the increasing costs of materials such as sheep wool and Rockwool, an alternative versatile product known as Earthwool is becoming a popular alternative.

It is made using recycled glass and does not contain added formaldehyde or artificial colours or dyes. Earthwool products are non-combustible, rot-proof, odourless, non-hygroscopic (will not absorb atmospheric moisture) and will not encourage the growth of mould or bacteria.

How much does Attic Insulation cost?

The cost of insulating your attic can vary depending on the size of your home, the defined attic space and the quality of insulation you choose. Once we review your attic during a site survey or Home Energy Assessment, we will be able to determine the cost for you.

Attic Insulation Grant

As Attic Insulation is a key measure in Home Energy Upgrades,  the SEAI provides grant allowances for Attic Insulation under both the One Stop Shop scheme and also the individual grant route.

Grants offered are provided by the Government of Ireland through the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).

Other Key Points about Insulation

• Remember, insulation does not ‘HEAT’ your home. It is not a ‘heat source’.  The purpose of Insulation is to maintain the air inside, regardless of whether it is warm or cold.  In order for insulation to function as intended – to preserve the generated heat in the building, sufficient levels of hot air must be produced.
• So, when the heat retention ability of the building has been optimised, with proper insulation and ventilation, there will be less heat generation required, therefore effectively lowering energy bills.
• Proper Ventilation is critical when insulating your home. This has to be done properly to avoid dampness, mould growth, and condensation as well as health issues related to dampness.

Our Insulation services include:

• Attic Insulation
• Cavity Wall Insulation
• External Wall Insulation
• Internal Dry Lining
• Floor Insulation

Ready To Start Upgrading Your Home?

Want to enquire about Attic Insulation? Request a Callback here