Floor thermal insulation reduces the transfer of heat from outside to inside and helps maintain a comfortable temperature. It also prevents draughts which is essential for keeping energy bills under control.

Whether your floor is suspended timber or concrete it can be insulated. In the case of a suspended timber floor the insulation is placed between the joists. It is important to ventilate this space properly to avoid fungus and timber rot.

Floor Thermal Insulation: Choosing the Right Materials

If you have a concrete floor it is possible to insulate it with a new layer of rigid foam. It is important to ensure that this is attached to a moisture-resistant chipboard before it is covered with your chosen floor covering. It is important to remember that adding insulation to your floor will raise it above the original level so it is vital that any damp issues are addressed and the structural integrity of the building is not compromised.

For new build and refurbishment projects, insulating the floor is often an obligatory improvement required by Building Regulations. This is especially the case where there are existing draughts along skirting boards.

The best option for a new build or refurbishment is to use blown-in or injected foam insulation that can be installed without tearing the house apart. The injected or blown in insulation is placed into holes drilled in the floorboards or the gaps between joists. This allows for a more uniform insulation layer without creating any lumps or bumps.