Part L of the Building Regulation also sets out the targets for energy efficiency. The U-values are used to determine the level of insulation required. The lower the U value, the slower heat transfer is and the better the insulation.
The U-value in England must currently be 0.15W/m2K. The registered Building Inspector uses the calculations of your architect or designer to determine compliance. For Loft Conversions Bristol, visit https://www.caineslofts.co.uk/loft-conversions-bristol/
The regulations do not specify the material to be used. There are a number of options to choose from, and each one will have varying thicknesses in order to meet the minimum U value.
You may also want to use environmentally friendly materials. Your architect, designer, or builder should be able give you advice on this to ensure that the U-value meets building regulations.
You will also need:
- As the second largest source of heat loss, make sure that your windows are up to standard.
- Insulate your floor to reduce the noise that is carried down into the rooms.
- Insulate the walls of your habitable rooms as well as any walls that you share with your neighbour to reduce heat loss and noise.
Insulating your loft
Insulation is added to the roof between the rafters or beneath them – or even both if necessary – in order to reduce thermal bridges. Thermal bridges are when the insulation is not continuous and heat is lost more easily.
Insulation is usually added to a vapour-control layer. This reduces the chance of condensation and mould forming.
You may want to insulate your wall with your neighbour for heat as well as sound.
A wall that is external will require thermal insulation, while an interior wall will require soundproofing.
