24 Insulation


Insulation Feature


The sheer volume and variability of the UK’s older building stock requires tailored retrofi tting approaches, not a simple one-size-fi ts-all solution


improvements to homes and other buildings to reduce emissions. T is means installing a whole range of energy saving measures; from better insulation and more effi cient appliances to replacing fossil fuelled boilers with low carbon alternatives such as heat pumps.


FABRIC FIRST APPROACH PIR and PUR insulation has an invaluable role in upgrading our underperforming housing stock and ensuring a sustainable future. Good insulation is essential and is one of the simplest and most cost-eff ective ways to reduce energy demand and cut CO2


. Lower U-values in walls, fl oors and roofs


will result in less heat lost, and better thermal performance, which in turn will help to deliver the standards required. Highly eff ective and versatile, polyisocyanurate (PIR) and polyurethane


(PUR) are some of the most eff ective insulation products available and provide versatile solutions in the form of boards, blocks, cavity injected, composite panels, and spray or panel insulation. T ese versatile products ensure that heat loss from properties is substantially reduced, meaning enhanced energy effi ciency.


HEALTHY HOMES Well insulated buildings can also yield signifi cant benefi ts for the lives of their users and occupants. T e importance of thermal comfort, providing pleasant internal conditions during the winter and summer months, is a prime example. T is factor is seen to infl uence performance and productivity, as well as the physical and mental health of building users. Another social benefi t associated with better insulation is the reduction


and potential elimination of fuel poverty. T is issue is alleviated as a greater proportion of heat is retained more eff ectively in homes when


incorporating superior fabric effi ciencies. T e provision of an enhanced building envelope results in a reduced overall fuel demand needed to achieve equivalent, sustained warmth over the winter months than for a building with lesser thermal performance.


GOOD PRACTICE & DETAILING To upgrade buildings to the standards required, it will be essential to establish its existing condition and carry out an accurate energy audit by a competent assessor, who can provide appropriate energy improvement measures. Factors such as the building’s design, location and construction materials may infl uence the best solution; correct detailing, materials and process are all important considerations as is pre-installation preparation and other remedial work such as ensuring gutters and downpipes do not leak. An adequate ventilation scheme should also be introduced as improved airtightness will alter the air fl ow and internal building environment. With the need for retrofi t on the increase it is most important that work is


carried out with a holistic approach following a comprehensive set of standards: assessment, compliance, installation and commissioning, to ensure the building performs as intended and that works are carried out in the correct order. Professional co-ordination coupled with consumer motivation, can deliver a


successful retrofi t. But good design and workmanship necessitates a proper level of quality assurance throughout the process, and good detailing is important for new-build and retrofi t alike. Moreover, to ensure thermal performance is achieved, all contractors


need to make sure the levels of site supervision are of a good standard, the manufacturer’s installation instructions are followed and installation instructions around potential cold thermal bridges and detailing are achieved. Upgrading and retrofi tting our ageing housing stock with high


performance insulation plays a crucial role in lowering heating demand, cutting CO2


emissions whilst simultaneously tackling fuel poverty and improving


comfort and wellbeing. Only through such concerted improvement eff orts can we not only minimise environmental impact but also create a lasting asset for future generations.


Simon Storer is chief executive of the Insulation Manufacturers Association Housing Management & Maintenance June/July 2025


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