A number of tips have been given by DIY expert Jeff Howell on how best to insulate homes that have little roof access or no cavity walls.
Writing in the Telegraph, he firstly explained that condensation – and consequently damp – could be caused on the battens and rafters if homeowners attempt to blow loose-fill insulation in through the beams of a boarded pitched or plastered roof.
Instead, he stated that it is important to make sure there is enough ventilation over the insulation and homeowners can achieve this by removing the tiles and battens of the building before placing a polythene sheet vapour barrier loosely over the inside of the rafters.
Next, DIYers should fit rigid foam board insulation between the beams, while leaving a 50mm space in between the board and the tiles for ventilation when retiling and installing new battens.
Mayor of London Boris Johnson recently announced plans to trial a new scheme in the capital that could see cavity wall and loft insulation provided to thousands of homes free of charge.
Posted by Barney Marshall