Loft insulation plays a vital role in keeping your home warm in winter and cool in summer, but like many materials, it doesn’t last forever. Over time, insulation can lose its efficiency, leaving you with higher energy bills and less comfort. Knowing how to check whether your loft insulation is still doing its job can save you money and help protect your property from unnecessary heat loss.
Signs Your Loft Insulation May Need Attention
One of the first things to look out for is a noticeable increase in your energy bills. If you are using your heating as normal but your home feels colder, it could be a sign that your loft insulation is no longer as effective as it should be. Similarly, if certain rooms are much harder to keep warm than others, this can indicate uneven insulation coverage or degradation over time.
Visual Checks in Your Loft
A simple visual inspection is a great starting point. Insulation should be evenly spread across the loft space without gaps or areas where it has been compressed. Look for signs of moisture or damp patches, as water damage can seriously reduce insulation performance. If the insulation looks flattened or has shifted away from the joists, it is likely no longer trapping heat effectively.
Depth of Insulation
Current UK building regulations recommend loft insulation of at least 270mm in depth. If your insulation looks thin or patchy, it may be outdated or have settled over time. You can use a ruler or tape measure to check its thickness and compare it to the recommended standard. Anything significantly below this level could mean your loft is underperforming in terms of energy efficiency.
Signs of Damp or Mould
Damp and mould in the loft are red flags that insulation may be compromised. Moisture build-up can occur if insulation blocks ventilation or if there are leaks in the roof. Damp insulation not only loses its thermal properties but can also damage your property and pose health risks.
Indoor Comfort Levels
Another way to assess insulation performance is to monitor how comfortable your home feels. If you notice large temperature fluctuations between floors or find upstairs bedrooms too cold in winter and too hot in summer, this is a strong sign that your loft insulation is struggling to regulate heat properly.
Professional Assessment
While DIY checks can give you a good idea, nothing beats the accuracy of a professional survey. Specialists use equipment to measure heat loss and spot hidden issues that might not be visible to the naked eye. This can provide peace of mind and a clear action plan if improvements are needed.
Looking for Loft Insulation Services in South Wales, Swansea, Cardiff or Bristol?
Cavi Clear Ltd provides expert loft insulation checks, upgrades, and replacements to keep your home energy efficient all year round. Our experienced team ensures your property is properly insulated to meet modern standards. Call us today on 01639 790426 or 07852 229017, or fill out our contact form to book your insulation service.
