Loft Conversion Insulation

Insulating a loft conversion can often be complicated, so ensure that insulation requirements are taken into account throughout the process of planning your loft conversion. As loft conversions are normally being converted into a habitable room, the modified space will need to meet building regulations for thermal efficiency, which state a U-value for the amount of heat loss through an area. These values are set differently for walls, floors, windows and roofs, with flat roofs being required to satisfy a different value to pitched ones. Much like insulating many areas, it is generally cost effective to insulate past the building regulations requirement as it can save on your energy bills. The hardest part of insulating a loft conversion is generally the restricted space. Space saving insulation materials are in many cases used in loft conversions as these should offer good insulation despite being very thin. When planning a loft conversion, make sure that there is adequate space designed for both the conversion itself and the specified insulation, as the insulation will have an effect on the ceiling height of the converted room. Dormer windows and rooflights must be insulated sufficiently. These areas require extra care when planning insulation, especially with flat roofed dormer windows, as these could have to conform to a different U-value than the surrounding pitched roof.