Lawrence Becker, Technical Director at YBS Insulation, explains why the qualities of thermally efficient, reflective multi-foil insulation solutions can save you money this winter.
A quarter of heat is lost through the roof of an uninsulated home, that’s according to the Energy Saving Trust.
None of us can escape the ever-increasing cost of living crisis. And as we enter the winter months, choosing the right insulation for your roof refurbishment, or new roof, can be a vital decision that may have knock-on effects for years to come.
Insulating your roof or loft effectively can drastically limit heat loss and reduce your energy bills, which are on the rise again. According to the Trust, a homeowner in a semi-detached property could save up to £355 a year if their loft space is insulated correctly.
This is why it is important to know the thermal qualities behind the insulation you choose, as well as considering how easy it is to fit, and how readily available the materials are to buy. If installed correctly, roof and loft insulation should pay for itself many times over in its often 40-year lifetime.
If your loft is easy to access, does not have damp problems and is not a flat roof, you can insulate it yourself. In cases where there is damp present, or a more complex insulation system is needed, a professional installer should be used.
Why Choose Multi-Foil Insulation?
There are many benefits of selecting multi-foil insulation for domestic roofing projects.
Multi-foil insulation works by reflecting radiant heat back into the living space retaining warmth, saving money and providing a cosier environment. It is often very thin and flexible which makes it easy to install using a staple gun and aluminium foil tape.
There are no fibres emitted from the insulation like a mineral wool alternative, therefore removing the need for any PPE (Personal Protection Equipment). There is also minimal waste with this product compared to traditional insulation products, which also saves on cost and hassle.
Multifoil insulation is often used in older properties to upgrade the thermal performance of the roof and walls, but it can also be used in new builds such as house extensions or new homes. As well as being more energy efficient than many traditional types of insulation, and simpler to install, it has a number of other useful properties such as vapour control – which helps to control moisture.
Cost and Energy Savings
Multi-foil insulation solutions, such as those manufactured by YBS Insulation, are very effective at preventing heat loss and condensation in homes, and therefore reducing energy bills.
SuperQuilt, for example, is a thermally efficient two-in-one insulating multi-foil and vapour control layer. As mentioned above, it works by reflecting heat back into the living space, saving money and providing a warmer environment for the home owner. SuperQuilt is made from 19 layers, has an R-Value of 3.0 m²K/W – equivalent to up to 130mm of mineral wool – and is fully BDA Kiwa certified. This product offers the homeowner up to 83 per cent reduction in heat loss.
Easy Installation
Installing a multi-foil insulation product is extremely easy and doesn’t require any additional training.
To install YBS’ SuperQuilt, for example, firstly, measure the application and calculate the required amount of insulation needed to complete your project. Cut the insulation to the required length, using a suitable pair of scissors or craft knife. Staple the insulation at minimum 300mm intervals, maintaining a 50mm overlap between layers. Tape and seal the perimeter and overlaps using YBS Aluminium Foil Tape, creating an airtight vapour control barrier.
If installed correctly, SuperQuilt will not shrink, sag or droop, and will ensure the building is fully thermally efficient from day one.
What to Look Out For
Consumers should look to buy multi-foil insulation products from a reputable trade counter or DIY store. There may be some cheaper alternatives on the market which can be bought online, but these may not have the required safety testing certificates or perform to UK Building Regulations.
Always make sure the insulation manufacturer has the latest industry standard certifications, such as BDA Kiwa certificate of Agrément or BBA (British Board of Agrément) certifications. All YBS products which have been BDA Kiwa certified are also accepted by the NHBC (National House Building Council) – offering increased assurance and warranty for new build customers.
YBS Insulation’s products are made in the UK at its manufacturing plant in Sheffield, and are available to buy in most DIY stores as well as trade counters. As a UK manufacturer, this further reduces costs for the consumer, and reduces potential long lead times compared with waiting for products from overseas.