Loft insulation is one of the smartest investments for homeowners in the UK. It reduces energy bills, improves home comfort, and helps the environment by cutting carbon emissions.

If you’re considering insulating your loft, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, including loft insulation dos and don’ts, how to insulate a loft hatch, whether you can lay loft insulation over boards, and where not to put loft insulation.

Why Insulate Your Loft?

If your loft isn’t properly insulated, a quarter of your home’s heat escapes through the roof. This means you’re spending more money on heating than necessary. With proper loft insulation, you can:

  • Reduce heating bills by up to £550 per year (Energy Saving Trust, 2024).
  • Improve your home’s energy efficiency (higher EPC rating = increased property value).
  • Stay warm in winter and cool in summer.
  • Lower your carbon footprint.

Loft Insulation Dos and Don’ts

Do ✅:

  • Check if you qualify for a free loft insulation grant.
  • Use the right insulation material (glass wool, mineral wool, or spray foam, depending on your loft type).
  • Ensure a minimum depth of 270mm for effective insulation.
  • Keep insulation breathable to prevent dampness.
  • Insulate pipes and water tanks to prevent freezing.

Don’t ❌:

  • Block ventilation gaps—this can cause condensation and mold.
  • Compress insulation—flattening it reduces its effectiveness.
  • Cover electrical cables—this can lead to overheating and fire hazards.
  • Forget to insulate the loft hatch—warm air escapes through gaps around the hatch.
  • Lay insulation under water tanks—this can cause pipes to freeze.

How to Insulate a Loft UK

If you want to install loft insulation yourself, follow these steps:

1. Prepare Your Loft

  • Clear out old insulation and debris.
  • Wear protective gear (gloves, mask, and goggles).
  • Ensure proper ventilation in the loft space.

2. Lay the First Layer (Between the Joists)

  • Use 100mm insulation rolls between the timber joists.
  • Cut the insulation to fit snugly between the gaps.

3. Lay the Second Layer (Over the Joists)

  • Roll out 170mm insulation perpendicular to the joists.
  • This will bring the total depth to the recommended 270mm.

4. Insulate the Loft Hatch

  • Attach an insulation board or reflective foil to the hatch.
  • Seal gaps with draught-proofing strips.

5. Check Ventilation

  • Leave at least a 50mm gap near eaves to prevent condensation.

Also Read:

How Much is a Loft Conversion? Everything You Need to Know
 

How to Insulate a Loft Hatch

Your loft hatch is a major source of heat loss. Follow these simple steps to insulate it:

  1. Measure the hatch door size.
  2. Attach an insulation board (like rigid foam or foil-backed board) to the inside of the hatch.
  3. Use self-adhesive draught strips around the edges to seal gaps.

With proper hatch insulation, you’ll keep more heat inside your home.

How to Insulate a Boarded Loft

If your loft is boarded for storage, you can still install insulation effectively:

  • Use loft legs or a raised platform to lift boards above insulation.
  • Lay rigid insulation boards under the flooring instead of using soft rolls.
  • Ensure airflow by leaving gaps around the edges.

This way, you get insulation benefits while keeping your storage space usable.

Where Not to Put Loft Insulation

Proper placement is crucial. Avoid placing insulation:

  • Over electrical cables—this can cause overheating.
  • Under cold water tanks—this increases the risk of freezing.
  • Blocking ventilation gaps—this leads to damp and mold issues.
  • Directly under floorboards without raising them—this compresses insulation and reduces efficiency.

Can You Lay Loft Insulation Over Boards?

Yes, but it’s not ideal. If your loft is already boarded, lifting the boards and installing insulation underneath is the best option. Alternatively:

  • Use rigid insulation boards on top of existing boards.
  • Consider raising the floor with loft legs before adding more insulation.

For a free professional assessment, book a survey with Freeloftinsulationgrant.co.uk today.

Get Free Loft Insulation Today

Instead of searching for the cheapest place for loft insulation, why not apply for a FREE insulation grant? If you qualify under the UK government scheme, our experts at Freeloftinsulationgrant.co.uk will handle everything—from survey to full installation.

Benefits of Free Loft Insulation:

  • No upfront costs—100% free for qualifying households.
  • Lower energy bills—save up to £550 per year.
  • Government-backed scheme—fully approved and regulated.
  • Fast and hassle-free process—fill out a quick form, and we do the rest.

Don’t miss out! Apply now at Freeloftinsulationgrant.co.uk and start saving today.

Apply Here

Final Thoughts

Installing loft insulation is one of the best ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Whether you’re wondering how to insulate a loft hatch, how to insulate a boarded loft, or where not to put loft insulation, this guide covers everything you need.

But why do it yourself when you can get it for free? Apply today at Freeloftinsulationgrant.co.uk, and our team will insulate your loft at no cost to you. A warmer home, lower bills, and zero hassle—what’s not to love?