HOW TO: INSULATE YOUR HOME & TRICKS TO STAY WARM THIS WINTER
As winter approaches, it is crucial to ensure your home is well-prepared to keep you warm and cosy. Effective insulation is the key to reducing your energy bills and creating a comfortable living space. So, how do you properly insulate your home to make sure you remain warm enough during the colder winter months?
Below, heating expert Thomas Halpin at PriceYourJob.co.uk goes over everything you need to know about staying warm in the winter. He explains the various ways of insulating your home, along with how to do it properly. In addition, you will learn some additional tricks to keeping your home warm. Read on to find out more…
Loft Insulation
The loft in your home is a significant source of heat loss. This is especially true for older homes. Inadequate or missing loft insulation can lead to higher energy bills and discomfort.
Proper loft insulation can help to reduce heat loss to the roof space and also helps to improve energy efficiency. This contributes to t a more comfortable living environment and lower heating costs.
If you already have insulation in the loft, make sure to check the depth. You want to aim for at least 270mm. A depth of 300mm is even better.
If your loft is under-insulated or bare, consider a full loft insulation installation. This involves laying insulation rolls or slabs between the joists.
Wall Insulation
Wall insulation is crucial for reducing heat loss, especially when it comes to external walls. It can significantly improve the energy efficiency of your home and lower your heating bills.
Wall insulation helps to reduce heat loss through the walls and also helps to improve sound insulation. External wall insulation can also enhance the appearance of your home.
There are two main types of wall insulation: cavity wall insulation and solid wall insulation. Here’s some information on each type:
- Cavity wall insulation – This is suitable for homes with cavity walls. Insulation is injected into the cavity between the inner and outer walls.
- Solid wall insulation – This is a more complex process, often involving internal or external wall insulation. Internal wall insulation involves installing insulation boards on the inside of the walls. External wall insulation involves covering the exterior walls with insulation materials.
Floor Insulation
Floor insulation is essential for reducing heat loss through the floor. This is especially true for ground-floor rooms. It can help to keep your feet warm and create a more comfortable living environment.
Floor insulation improves energy efficiency, resulting in lower heating costs. It also reduces heat loss to the ground and can help to reduce noise from below.
There are two main types of floor insulation: solid floor insulation and suspended floor insulation. Here’s some information on each type:
- Solid floor insulation – This is suitable for solid floors and often involves the installation of insulation boards between the joists.
- Suspended floor insulation – This is suitable for suspended floors and often involves the installation of insulation between the joists.
Draught-Proofing
Draught-proofing is a simple and cost-effective way to reduce heat loss and improve the energy efficiency of your home. This involves sealing the gaps around the doors, windows, and other openings. This helps to prevent cold air from entering your home and also prevents the warm, heated air from escaping your home.
Draught-proofing can lower your heating costs because it helps to keep the warm air contained in your home and prevents cold air from entering from the outside.
You can use draught-proofing strips, sealant, or foam to seal gaps around doors, windows, and skirting boards. Also, look for gaps around pipes and cables and seal them with appropriate materials.
Upgrade Your Heating System
A modern, energy-efficient heating system can significantly reduce your energy consumption and lower your heating bills. Consider upgrading your boiler or installing a smart thermostat to optimise your heating.
This will help to lower your heating costs, allowing you to heat your home more efficiently. It will also help to make your home much more comfortable during the colder weather periods.
Here are some things you can do to upgrade your heating system:
- Consider a modern boiler – A modern, energy-efficient boiler will help to lower your heating bills and reduce your energy consumption.
- Regular servicing – Ensure your boiler is serviced regularly to help maintain optimal performance.
- Smart thermostats – Invest in a smart thermostat to control your heating remotely and optimise energy usage.
Additional Tips For Keeping Your Home Warm This Winter
There are several other things you can do to help keep your home warm and remain comfortable during the cold winter weather. Take a look at the tips below:
- Bleeding radiators – Regularly bleed your radiators to ensure efficient heat distribution.
- Curtains and blinds – Close curtains and blinds at night to help retain heat.
- Regular maintenance – Keep your heating system well-maintained to ensure optimal performance.
- Layer up – Wear warm clothing indoors, such as jackets, socks, and slippers.
- Cook hearty meals – Cooking can help you to heat your home, so consider making warming soups and stews.
- Check for leaks – Repair any leaks in your plumbing to prevent heat loss.
- Consider a thermal imaging survey – This can help identify areas of heat loss in your home.
DIY or Professional Installation
While some insulation tasks, such as loft insulation and draught-proofing, can be done as a DIY job, others, such as floor insulation and wall insulation, may require a professional installation. Consider the complexity of the task, your DIY skills, and the potential cost savings before you decide.
Final Thoughts
By following the steps outlined above and taking advantage of the additional tips, you can transform your home into a warm and cosy haven during the coldest winter months. Not only will you be more comfortable, but you’ll also likely see a significant reduction in your energy bills. Remember, a well-insulated home is an investment that pays off in both comfort and savings. So, don’t wait until the winter chill sets in – start tackling your home’s insulation needs today!
