With weather warnings across the UK and snow and ice costing much of the country, now is the perfect time to check if your house is losing heat.
If your insulation is poor, you could be losing precious warmth through your roof, which could cost you hundreds in bills. The property experts at Gaffsy believe now is the perfect time to check on your loft insulation.
On a cold and frosty morning, take the time to step outside and take a look up at your roof.
If frost or snow covers your roof evenly, that is a sign that your roof is properly insulated.
If the frost/snow coverage is patchy and sparse, that is usually an indication that heat is escaping through your roof. This could lead to energy loss and higher heating costs.
The minimum recommended depth of insulation is 270mm and if your insulation is thinner than this, it might be worth adding a few extra layers.
The main things you should look for when checking your roof insulation are mould, moisture and holes. If these signs are present on your insulation, it is advisable to replace it.
Insulation materials deteriorate over time. If your insulation is more than 20-30 years old, it may need replacing, as newer materials are more efficient.
An estimated 25% of the heat in our homes escapes through the roof without sufficient insulation, which could range from zero insulation to damaged insulation.
If you have poor insulation, your bills will climb as you need more heat to keep your home warm. With proper insulation, you can save up to £300 every year, depending on the size of your home.
Oren Kander, senior valuer and director at Gaffsy said: “Many homeowners don’t realise that the condition of their roof on a frosty morning can reveal a lot about their home’s energy efficiency.
“Uneven frost or snow melt indicates that heat is escaping, which not only drives up energy bills but also decreases your home’s temperature.
By addressing insulation issues early, you can prevent significant heat loss, improve your home’s energy efficiency, and make substantial savings on your heating costs. It’s a simple observation that can make a big difference.”
