Green Homes Network

GP lives in a detached home, built in the 1960s, in Bishopbriggs. He knew he could make his home warmer and more comfortable by installing insulation. When he learned about the Scottish Government grant funding available to reduce the financial burden, he knew it was time to make some improvements.

Researching the right measures

GP started researching insulation online and immediately noticed many installers recommending spray foam insulation in the loft space. However, after investigating further it was evident to GP that there was debate around this measure. GP couldn’t see it being suitable for his property as the material may cause him problems, and potentially affect the property’s mortgage eligibility.

He chose rollout insulation instead and approached three installers which provided him with estimates and advice about what was involved. GP decided to go with Insulation Installers Scotland (IIS), based in East Kilbride, and opted to insulate in the void under the property at the same time to keep even more heat in.

Fitting the insulation

The underfloor insulation was completed first, 150mm of insulation was attached to the underside of the floorboards and enclosed with mesh to prevent it detaching or sagging over time. A wrap-around polyethylene foam was also added to the radiators pipes to reduce heat loss between the boiler and ground floor radiators.

IIS laid 300mm of insulation between the rafters in the loft and floored it with chipboard. Overall, the work took less than four days to complete, and GP was very happy with it. He met the owner of IIS who made sure the works were carried out to a high standard and to the specifications required. GP took advantage of the Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan scheme which he will repay monthly over the next year. GP says the application was easy but that applicants should be wary of potential delays during busy holiday periods.

GP says his home is relatively warmer but due to rising energy costs he is unlikely to make big savings. His property is double glazed, and the cavity walls have been filled with insulation, but GP is confident there is probably even more he could do to keep the heat in.

Advice for others

GP says to be wary that installers may be looking to maximise profits, and this may not always match up with what you want for your home, “Every trade-person that I have met always looks at the area your house is located and checks the size of your house to make sure they maximise their profit from their potential client. My advice would be to shop around and get as many quotes as possible, do your research, and spend time asking for construction details and what is/isn’t included in the estimate of the works. Remember, it is not in their interest to make your house more comfortable. It is yours.”

Feeling inspired?

You can read articles about different insulation measures to keep your home warmer on Energy Saving Trust’s website.