Thermal insulation is a fundamental factor to achieve thermal comfort for occupants. Insulation reduces undesirable heat loss or gain and can lower the energy demand on heating and cooling systems.
Insulation is the most effective way to improve the energy efficiency of a building, as it acts as a barrier to heat transfer.
It will keep the house warm in winter and will help to stay cool in summer, improves thermal comfort and well-being, and minimises condensation on walls and ceilings. Furthermore, insulation needs to be combined with appropriate shading devices to windows and adequate ventilation possibilities, otherwise heat entering a building through windows will be trapped inside by the insulation and lead to overheating
Older houses in particular pose a problem: inadequate insulation, poor solar access and air leakages amongst other things lead to unwanted heat gain and loss, and consequently higher energy bills.
Adding insulation to a home can save 45-55% of mechanical heating and cooling needs and as a result, save non-renewable resources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. With the current energy prices, additional insulation usually pays for itself in around five to six years. With the prospect of rising energy prices, it’s more than likely that insulation retrofitting will pay off even quicker.