What is roof insulation?
As heat rises, a poorly insulated or uninsulated roof allows a lot of energy to escape. Up to 30% of your home's heat can be lost through the roof. Roof insulation involves fitting insulating material to the inside or outside of the roof, keeping warmth in during winter and heat out during summer.
The benefits of roof insulation
A well-insulated roof offers several benefits:
- Greater comfort: fewer draughts and a more even temperature throughout your home.
- Lower energy bills: insulating your roof often delivers the biggest savings.
- A cooler loft in summer: insulation also keeps heat from outside at bay.
- A better energy rating: an insulated roof improves your home's energy performance.
- A more sustainable home: lower gas consumption and reduced CO₂ emissions.
Insulating a pitched roof
On a pitched roof, insulation is usually fitted internally, between or against the roof boarding. This can be done without opening up the roof, making it the most popular method.
For this we work exclusively with PIF thermal cushions. They insulate well at a limited thickness, so you lose as little attic space as possible. The seams are carefully finished to prevent thermal bridges and draughts.
Insulating a flat roof
On a flat roof, insulation is usually fitted on top, beneath a new roof covering. It makes sense to do this when the roof covering is due for replacement anyway. In some cases, insulation can be fitted underneath. During the inspection, we assess which approach is technically suitable.
Internal or external insulation: which suits your roof?
The best method depends on the type of roof, the condition of the roof covering and how you use your loft.
- Internal insulation: quick to install, with no need to open up the roof and minimal disruption.
- External insulation: ideal when renovating your roof, with no loss of loft space.
- Flat roofs: insulation is usually fitted when the roof covering is replaced.
Managing ventilation and moisture
A well-insulated roof keeps warmth in, but it can also trap moisture. That's why we ensure a suitable vapour control layer and adequate ventilation are in place during installation. This prevents condensation and keeps the roof structure in good condition.
How roof insulation works with Greenisolatie
- Free advice: request a quote or a callback.
- Inspection: we assess the roof structure, ventilation and any moisture problems.
- Tailored quote: receive a proposal suited to your home.
- Installation: the work is often completed in just one day.
- Grants: we help with your application so you don't miss out.
Subsidy for roof insulation
Roof insulation is eligible for the national ISDE grant. The grant pays a fixed amount per square metre. If you combine two or more measures within two years, such as roof and floor insulation, the amount per square metre doubles.
Many local authorities also run their own schemes. Greenisolatie checks which grants are available for your home and helps with your application.
Combining roof insulation with other measures
Roof insulation works best as part of a whole-home approach. By also insulating your cavity walls or floor, or upgrading your glazing, you can reduce heat loss even further and may qualify for a larger grant.
Frequently asked questions
Is my roof suitable for insulation?
Almost any roof can be insulated, whether pitched or flat. Minor adjustments may sometimes be needed, for example to the ventilation. During the inspection, we assess the options for your roof.
How long does roof insulation take?
Insulating a pitched roof from the inside is often completed in just one day. For a flat roof or a roof renovation, the time needed depends on the work involved.
Does the roof need to be opened up for insulation?
No, internal insulation does not require the roof to be opened up. The roof covering is only replaced when insulation is fitted externally.
How much does roof insulation cost?
That depends on the type of roof, its area and the method chosen. Request a free quote for a proposal tailored to your home.
Can I get a grant for roof insulation?
Yes, roof insulation is eligible for the national ISDE grant, and many local authorities run their own schemes. We help with your application.
Can roof insulation be combined with solar panels?
Yes, they're a smart combination. Insulating your roof first reduces your energy use, while solar panels allow you to generate your own renewable electricity.
How long does roof insulation last?
Properly installed roof insulation lasts for decades with very little maintenance. We also provide a 10-year guarantee on our workmanship.