Houses are insulated to reduce heat loss and save money. It can reduce heat loss by two thirds.

Houses which are not insulated lose the following:

-35% through walls

-15% through floor

-15% through doors

-25% through roof

-10% through windows

Underlying principle of insulation:

-Poor conductors of heat are used for insulating materials.

-This means that the materials used do not let the heat travel through them and hence prevent the loss of heat from a house

-Insulating materials include: air, polystyrene, fibreglass and wool

Advantages of Insulation:

-Reduces heat loss

-Saves energy and this reduces fuel costs

-Less damage to the environment

-Reduces noise from outside

Methods of Insulation:

-Attic and roof insulation

  • Heat rises causing heat loss through the roof.
  • Building requirements now mean that all new houses must have a minimum of 15cm of attic insulation
  • Fibre blanket insulation: strips of insulation blanket made from fibreglass are laid between the joists in the attics.
  • Loose fill insulation: pellets of polystyrene are poured between the joists in the attic.
  • Foam insulation: foam is sprayed between the rafters and it solidifies. This is more commonly used in attic conversions.

-Wall insulation

  • Building regulations require that all new houses have a minimum requirement of wall insulation.
  • Cavity walls: two layers of blocks 5-10cm apart. Within the space air acts as an insulator. To add extra insulation polystyrene sheets can be added at the building stage. Polystyrene foam can be pumped into the cavity of colder houses.

  • Solid walls: Interior walls can be insulated using either blanket insulation or insulation sheets.
  • Blanket insulation: fibreglass is inserted into a wooden frame and plasterboard covers this.
  • Insulation sheets: these are attached to the walls and then covered with plasterboard.

-Floor insulation

  • Gaps between floorboards or skirting should be filled.
  • Use thick underlay beneath carpets

-Window and door insulation

  • If they are well fitted this reduces draughts
  • Doubling glazing: this consists of two sheets of glass with a space between them. The air within the space acts as an insulator. Argon glass can also be used.
  • Draught proofing: Use draught excluders will save energy and keep the home warmer. These are available for letterboxes and doors.
  • Heavy lined curtains reduce heat loss
  • Block off used fireplaces

-Hot-water cylinder

  • New tanks are sprayed with an insulating coating. Older tanks require a lagging jacket. These are inexpensive but very efficient.