Loft insulation: Save money and energy the smart way

When it comes to cutting energy bills and boosting your home’s efficiency, loft insulation is one of the most effective and affordable solutions. With energy prices continuing to rise and environmental concerns growing, now is the perfect time to take a closer look at your loft.

At TSPC, we know that home improvements should deliver long-term value and loft insulation does exactly that. Here’s how it works, how much you could save, and why it’s a smart move for homeowners across Scotland.

What is loft insulation and how does it work?

Heat naturally rises, which means around 25% of heat can escape through an uninsulated roof. Loft insulation creates a thermal barrier, trapping warmth inside your home instead of letting it vanish into the cold Scottish air.

Most properties use blanket insulation – usually mineral wool or fibreglass – laid between the wooden joists in the loft. Other options include loose-fill insulation for harder-to-reach areas. It’s worth noting that spray foam insulation is not recommended by many mortgage lenders and could affect your ability to sell or remortgage your home in future.

How much can loft insulation save you?

If your loft is currently uninsulated or the insulation is thin or outdated, upgrading to the recommended 270mm thickness could save you up to £355 per year on your heating bills (Energy Saving Trust, 2024).

Considering that loft insulation lasts for around 40 years, that’s a potential saving of over £14,000 across its lifespan, a major return for a one-time investment.

Even if you already have some insulation, topping it up to modern standards could significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency.

A warmer home and a greener Scotland

Scotland is aiming for net-zero carbon emissions by 2045, and improving home insulation plays a key role in that mission. Since heating is one of the biggest contributors to household energy use, reducing heat loss directly lowers your carbon footprint.

Better insulation means your heating system doesn’t need to work as hard, which means fewer emissions and more savings, a win-win for your wallet and the planet.

How much does loft insulation cost?

The cost of loft insulation depends on your home’s size and the method used:

• Professional installation for a standard semi-detached house typically costs between £500 and £1,000.

• DIY loft insulation can bring costs down to around £5 per square metre, if you’re confident with tools.

You may also be eligible for government grants or local energy efficiency schemes, which can help cover the cost. Always check what support is available in your area before starting the work.

Bonus benefits of loft insulation

Still on the fence? Here are a few extra reasons to insulate your loft:

• Comfort all year round – Stay warm in winter and cool in summer.

• Noise reduction – Insulation helps block external noise and improve acoustic comfort inside your home.

• Boosted property value – Energy-efficient homes are more attractive to buyers and could help your home sell faster.

Time to check your loft?

Whether you’re planning a renovation or just looking to cut costs, loft insulation is a small change with a big impact. It’s quick to install, low maintenance, and delivers decades of benefits.

At TSPC, we’re here to help you make smart property decisions. If you’re thinking about selling, upgrading your insulation can make your home more attractive and energy efficient.

Ready to sell your home?

If you’re looking to get started with selling your home, it’s best to begin with a home valuation. TSPC agents offer a free valuations service – simply fill out our home valuation form, and we’ll put you in touch with up to three TSPC agents to arrange a free valuation.