Can I insulate my own loft?
Yes. Laying mineral wool rolls in an easy loft is within reach of a careful DIYer, and the Energy Saving Trust and Which? both describe it as a DIY job in straightforward lofts. You need gloves, a mask, goggles, long sleeves, a board to kneel on and good light.
When is it better to use an installer?
- Low pitches, tight eaves or a small hatch
- Downlights, old wiring or a lot of cables
- Lath-and-plaster ceilings that cannot take weight
- Damp, droppings or old insulation that needs removing
- When you also want raised boarding, a hatch or ventilation
What are the common DIY mistakes?
- Blocking the eaves with insulation
- Covering downlights or burying cables
- Insulating under the cold water tank
- Laying boards directly on top and squashing the insulation
- Stepping between the joists through the ceiling
Related services
Sources: Energy Saving Trust: roof and loft insulation; Which?: loft insulation costs and savings; LABC: building regulation requirements for loft insulation; GOV.UK: extending the ECO4 end date, government response; GOV.UK: VAT on energy-saving materials (notice 708/6); Property Care Association: spray foam guidance.
