What Type of Insulation Do I Need?

Insulation does more than just keep a property warm. When installed correctly, insulation reduces sound transmissions, moisture and regulates temperatures all year round. But you may be wondering what should you insulate? What type of insulation should you use?

 

What should I insulate?

Maximise the effectiveness of insulation by installing it in floors, walls, roofs and garages. This reduces heat escaping through weak spots. When choosing insulation, ensure you opt for the appropriate R-value. This will depend on the area you are insulating. The higher R-value a product has, the better it will perform. We’ve put together this guide on common types of insulation to help you choose the best type for your project:

 

Blanket roll insulation 

Blanket insulation is one of the most commonly used types. It is easy to install and is suitable for insulating solid walls, between roof beams and under floors. Blanket insulation is made from glass wool, mineral wool or sheep’s wool.
 

Foam board insulation

Foam board insulation provides support in weighted areas which need extra support, such as under floors or in lofts. Boards can be cut to fit, and are usually made from polyurethane or polystyrene. The thick boards also provide additional sound insulation. 
 

Spray foam insulation

Spray foam is great for filling hard to read areas, such as behind pipes and in small cavities, preventing air leakage. The foam expands to fill space. Ideal for cavity walls attics, but be wary of the fumes it produces. Spray foam is usually made from polyurethane. 
 

Blown-in insulation

Similar to spray foam, blown-in insulation can fill spaces which is hard to reach. Instead of an expanding solution, this insulation consists of mineral fibres which can be blown into the area which needs insulating. Kind of like the opposite of a hoover. 
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Structural insulated panel insulation

Looks a bit like an ice cream sandwich, but definitely not for consumption. The sandwich design provides high thermal performance and reliable strength. Perfect for walls and roofs, particularly in new builds. The panels are made with an insulating foam core between two structural faces.