Checking your own loft insulation in five minutes
You don’t need to be an expert to get a good idea of your loft. A torch, a ruler and five careful minutes will tell you a lot.
| You need | A torch, a ruler, gloves and a dust mask |
|---|---|
| Takes | About five minutes |
| Never | Step between the joists |
Before you go up
Use a proper ladder, take a torch, and only step on the joists or boards, never between them. If the loft has no light or boards, look from the hatch.
What to look at
Can you see the tops of the joists? If so, the insulation is probably too thin. Is it even across the floor, or are there bare patches? Is it dry, clean and fluffy, or flattened, dark or damp?
Measure it
Push a ruler gently down through the insulation in a few places. Compare it with the depth commonly recommended, around 270 mm for mineral wool.
Common questions
What if I can’t get into my loft?
Look from the hatch with a torch, or ask us to check it for you.
What are the warning signs?
Visible joists, damp or dark patches, droppings, a musty smell and insulation squashed under boxes.
Find out what your loft needs, in plain words
Tell us about your home. We’ll explain the options and send a written quote. No obligation.