Insulating Your Home – Should You Hire a Professional or DIY
| by Dave Ashbolt
There are pros and cons to DIY insulation installation and professional installation. It’s a question we get asked a lot when our customers buy insulation, but it’s not a straightforward question to answer due to a range of factors to take into consideration.
If you compare a DIY installation to a professional installation, there are key points to consider for each type of installation.
DIY insulation installation:
– Can save money on the cost of insulation
– May be more difficult to install properly, which could impact the effectiveness of the insulation
– May not be installed correctly, which can lead to heat loss in the home
Professional insulation installation:
– Can be more expensive than DIY installation
– Usually installed correctly, preventing heat loss in the home and reducing energy bills
– They’ll know what’s the best insulation for the application
What is the most important factor to you? If saving money is most important, DIY installation may be the way to go. But if you want to be sure the insulation is installed correctly and you’re not worried about the cost, professional installation is the better option.
What Else is there to Consider?
You have to consider your own experience, since insulation can be a tricky product to handle. Depending on the type of insulation and the space you are insulating you’ll likely need a tool to cut the insulation. You may even need protective clothing and a mask.
As an example, Celotex PIR insulation can be cut with a saw, whereas fibreglass insulation, such as Knauf Loft Roll, would need a sharp blade.
Safety precautions should always be taken when DIY-ing, but this is especially important when handling insulation. Improper installation can lead to several problems, including:
– Leaks and drafts
– Inefficient heating or cooling
– Reduced comfort levels
– Moisture damage
– Increased energy bills
You’ll also need to be careful not to damage any existing wiring or pipework when installing insulation. If you’re not sure, professional installation is always the best option.
Wearing a mask if you install insulation yourself is well advised, as is wearing gloves, eye protection, and old clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty.
When you cut and/or fit insulation, particles from the materials can become airborne and if breathed in, can cause respiratory problems. Some types of insulation like fiberglass or mineral wool will create more dust particles, compared to PIR insulation – but it’s equally important to wear a mask and eye protection when working with them.
The application is also an important factor. Installing loft insulation roll is a lot easier compared to cavity wall insulation. If you know that you need cavity wall insulation in your property, then we highly recommend finding a certified professional installer. This is because the insulation is inserted between the space of two walls. This can be done using an insulation board, such as the Celotex CW4100, which is a 100mm cavity insulation board.
The applicable regulations are also important. If you were to do a DIY project you would need to manage any permits or licences that might come with the installation. If a professional is installing the insulation, they will take care of these details for you.
Building regulations are in place to ensure that all homes are properly insulated. DIY installations might not meet these standards, which could be a problem if you ever sell your home. Hiring a professional to install your insulation means that you can be sure the job will be done to meet those standards.
Summary
There are a few things to consider when deciding whether to DIY or hire a professional to install insulation in your home. Building regulations must be met for all homes, and DIY installations may not meet these standards. Professionals also have the experience and knowledge to do the job properly and their work will come with warranties and insurance, which is important for ensuring the insulation works effectively. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what youâre comfortable with.
