Insulation is a critical component of modern building practices, significantly influencing energy efficiency, comfort, and environmental impact. Despite its importance, many myths and misconceptions persist about insulation, leading to confusion and misinformation. We take a look at some of these myths and separate the facts from fiction.
Myth: Insulation causes damp and mould.
Fact: Insulation in itself does not cause dampness and mould. The two main scenarios where these concerns could arise involve:
- Underlying issues prior to the installation of insulation.
- Incorrect installation of an insulation system.
If a property has existing issues, such as leaking pipes or holes in the roof that allow water to penetrate, these need to be fixed before the installation of insulation. Similarly, when insulation is installed incorrectly, and gaps are left, this can cause thermal bridging and cold spots, which increase the risk of condensation on internal surfaces, potentially leading to dampness and mould.
Myth: Insulation will make my home too warm in the summer.
Fact: Insulation works by acting as a barrier to heat transfer, helping to prevent the outside temperature from affecting the inside temperature of a home. A well-insulated home will reduce radiated heat from the sun to retain a cooler environment indoors. Additionally, it’s important to consider ventilation. For instance, installing dMEV fans and Air Flo trickle vents can help keep your home cool by ensuring proper air circulation.
Myth: All insulation materials are the same.
Fact: Insulation materials vary widely in terms of performance, application, and environmental impact. Choosing the right insulation depends on the specific needs of the building, budget, and environmental considerations. At SWIP, we use glass mineral wool, which is known for having excellent thermal and acoustic performance. It is made with sustainability in mind and is resistant to high temperatures.
Myth: Insulating a home costs a lot of money.
Fact: Depending on your social and economic circumstances and your property’s EPC rating, you may be eligible for a number of funding schemes, which may reduce the costs significantly. Some of these schemes include ECO, LADS, SHDFS, HUGS, and GBIS.
Nevertheless, the cost of installing insulation can be outweighed by the savings on energy bills. According to the Energy Saving Trust, you could potentially save up to £970 a year depending on the property and the insulation measures installed, as well as enjoying the increased thermal comfort that insulation brings and the positive environmental impact of reducing carbon usage.
