Is Outdated Insulation Costing You Money and Safety?
Did you know that millions of homes in the UK still have insulation that is over 50 years old? If your home hasn’t had insulation upgraded recently, there’s a good chance it’s not keeping your home warm effectively. This isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s costing you money and could even put your family’s health at risk.
Why Old Insulation Is a Problem
Insulation standards have changed dramatically over the years. Here’s a quick look at how loft insulation requirements have improved:
- 1965: Very little insulation required.
- 1973: 60mm loft insulation required.
- 1985: Increased to 100mm.
- 1990: Further increased to 150mm.
- 1995: Standards rose to 200mm.
- 2002: Recommended depth reached 250mm.
- 2003 onwards: Current standards recommend 270mm.
Despite these updates, recent surveys show more than half of UK homes still have insulation dating back to standards set in 1976 or earlier.
What Does This Mean for You?
Old insulation can lead to big problems:
- Higher Energy Bills: Poor insulation allows heat to escape easily, making your heating system work harder and costing you up to £380 extra every year.
- Cold and Uncomfortable Homes: Rooms feel chilly, even when heating is on full.
- Health and Safety Risks: Incorrectly installed or old insulation can lead to mould and dampness, causing health issues. Covering electrical cables incorrectly can even cause fires.
Common DIY Mistakes
Many homeowners try to save money by insulating their lofts themselves. However, DIY insulation often goes wrong:
- Compressing insulation reduces effectiveness significantly.
- Covering electric cables can cause overheating and fire hazards.
- Blocking loft ventilation leads to dampness and mould growth.
Nearly 70% of homeowners admit they’ve made at least one of these common mistakes when insulating their own homes.
What Should You Do?
Here are simple steps you can take to improve your home’s insulation and safety:
- Check Your Insulation: Find out if your loft insulation meets today’s standard of 270mm.
- Get Professional Advice: Speak with insulation experts to make sure your insulation is installed safely and properly.
- Avoid DIY Errors: If you decide to do the job yourself, learn the proper methods to avoid costly mistakes.
- Look for Financial Help: Government schemes often help cover the cost of insulation upgrades.
Contact Cavitech Today
Don’t leave your comfort, safety, and savings to chance. Cavitech specialises in modern insulation solutions that meet current standards. Our expert team is ready to help you assess your current insulation, advise on improvements, and carry out professional, safe installation.
Call Cavitech today and take the first step towards a warmer, safer, and more cost-effective home.
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Please note that the survey data used in this blogpost was comissioned by LoftZone