When it comes to insulating roofs, you have a range of options to choose from. The type you go for may depend on your roof shape as well as your preference on material.
Let’s take a look at the different roof insulation options available so you can choose the best one for your building.
Why should you insulate your roof?
Roof insulation is one of the most effective ways to keep your building warm in the winter. Your roof is an area that can lose a lot of heat. Think of insulating your roof like wearing a woolly hat to keep the rest of your body warm! Insulation also helps your building maintain a cool temperature in the summer.
As well as keeping your building balanced in temperature, roof insulation is a cost-effective option that can save you money on your energy bills.
So what options are available for insulating your roof?
Spray foam insulation
Spray foam insulation, made from polyurethane, is a popular and effective insulation method as you can seal any small cracks to create a protective barrier. You spray the foam directly on the underside of your roof deck, onto the tiles and slates — the spray bonds to the surface, keeping any moisture and hot or cold air out.
Although spray foam is plastic-based, it can reduce your need to heat your building by burning fossil fuels. It’s also a durable and long-lasting option.
However, if you decide to go for this type of roof insulation, you’ll need to hire a professional to fit it for you. The spray contains harsh chemicals and must be applied with care.
Blanket or matting insulation
This is probably the most common type of insulation. Blanket insulation is a great option for a DIY project. It consists of panels of foil-backed felt, fibreglass, rock or mineral fibre, which you roll out across the floor of your attic and over any wall cavities.
Fibreglass is the most cost-effective form of blanket insulation. However, it’s important to wear protective clothing and eyewear when you install it. You can also go for sheep’s wool for a more eco-friendly insulation option.
Loose-fill insulation
Similar to blanket insulation, loose-fill insulation can be made from fibreglass, wool, mineral fibre. The difference is that loose-fill insulation isn’t pressed and rolled into mats. Instead, you directly fill the roof space with granular pieces.
You can also get ‘blown-in’ insulation, where the loose materials are blown mechanically into hard-to-reach places. Blown-in varieties will usually require a professional to install.
Both loose-fill and blown-in insulation are flexible options that are quick to install and handy for awkwardly shaped roof cavities. However, they tend to be more expensive than other forms of insulation and aren’t suitable for draughty areas where they can be dislodged.
If you want a greener version of loose-fill insulation, you can always use recycled newspaper.
Insulated roofing sheets
Another option for insulating roofs is using composite insulated roof panels. These panels are pre-assembled and consist of an internal and external sheet, made from galvanised steel with an insulation filler. Rhino insulated roofing sheets have a box profile top sheet and come with a PVC finish in a variety of colours to suit every kind of roofing project.
Insulated roofing sheets are quick and easy to install. They’re also durable and require virtually no maintenance. Another advantage is that if you have an issue with one section, you can replace or repair individual sheets easily, making it a cost-effective choice.
We also supply insulated roofing sheet systems, comprising a top sheet, bottom liner panel, flashings around the outside and spacer bars and brackets. These systems need to be built up when fitting but are extremely cost-effective and ideal for a range of buildings and eliminate condensation as well as heat loss.
We can also tailor our insulated roofing sheet systems to your needs. So if you’re looking for effective, affordable roof insulation, why not get in touch?