Installing insulation in the home

You might not be able to see it, but installing insulation in your home is one of the best investments you'll ever make.

Apart from cheaper power bills (an insulated home can reduce your heating and cooling costs by as much as 60 per cent), when insulation is installed correctly it can keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Here are a few things you should consider when it comes to choosing insulation.

Types of insulation materials

Bulk insulation is what most people think of when insulation is mentioned. It's available as batts, blankets or boards and can be made of fibreglass/woolglass, natural wool or synthetic fibres like polyester. It's ideal for ceiling and wall insulation and can be installed by the home owner, but the different types have different properties.

For example, while glasswool has the potential to irritate the skin and upper respiratory tract during installation, polyester is non-irritant and flame resistant.

Loose-fill insulation is another option

Rather than being supplied in batts or blankets, 'loose' insulation is pumped directly into the ceiling cavity. In order to achieve the correct depth, it's best if it's professionally installed, and because it's loose, it does have the tendency to 'settle' over time, which can compromise its effectiveness.

Insulation boards or rigid insulation are usually made from polystyrene. They are effective, but are usually more expensive than other options and are most commonly used in new homes.

Reflective insulation

This foil-based material acts as a waterproofing membrane, and as well as being available in a single layer, also comes pre-bonded to batts. Under a tiled or metal roof, foil insulation on its own may not be enough to properly insulate your house.

The insulation R-Value

No matter what type of insulation you choose, always look for the R-Value, a measurement between one and four that represents the product's thermal resistance - in other words, its performance. Because it's a nationally accredited rating system, you can be sure that the higher the R-Value, the more effective the insulation product will be. Recommended R-Values differ depending on where you live, so it's worth checking with your local council to make sure you choose a product that's up to the weather conditions in your area.

A few final tips on installing insulation

Get at least three quotes for your insulation and be sure to choose reputable suppliers. It's also worth asking about fire protection - the insulation you choose should either be a non-combustible product or one that has been properly treated.

Contact an insulation contractor in your area today to discover how installing insulation will save you in the long run: