Should I insulate between joists or rafters?

Should I insulate my loft between the ceiling joists or the roof rafters? Or both?

Asked by Gavin on 20th Apr 2023
Expert Trade Answers
"Hi my names John I'm a joiner I would insulated the ceiling joists that way you can stop all the heat from escaping through the roof ."
Answered on 22nd Apr 2023 - Member since Apr 2023 - report
"The choice between insulating between ceiling joists or roof rafters depends on a few factors, including the type of roof you have, how the space will be used, and the condition of the roof.

Insulating between the ceiling joists is the most common method and is generally the easiest and least expensive option. It involves laying insulation between the joists, typically using rolls or batts of insulation.

Insulating between the roof rafters, on the other hand, involves placing insulation in the space between the roof rafters. This can be a good option if you plan to use your loft space as a living area or if you want to create a warm roof space to prevent issues like ice damming.

In some cases, it may be possible or advisable to do both, depending on your goals for the space and the condition of the roof."
Answered on 24th Apr 2023 - Member since Apr 2023 - report
"If you’re having a room in the loft then insulate under the tiles , if the loft is empty then between the joists. Basically you need to insulate above where you want to keep warm. If there’s nothing in the loft then you don’t have to worry about heating it up"
Answered on 24th Apr 2023 - Member since Mar 2023 - report
"celling joists roof still needs to breath unless you have a dorma then that would all be insulated"
Answered on 23rd Apr 2023 - Member since Apr 2023 - report
"You should insulate between joist as it will keep in the warmth more"
Answered on 24th Apr 2023 - Member since Nov 2021 - report
"If you are converting the loft into a room then definitely both .
If you are insulating yr loft the recommendation is 300mm of insulation all over ceiling joists 👌🏻"
Answered on 20th Apr 2023 - Member since Mar 2023 - report
"I answer to your question, it will certainly keep your home warmer that's for sure. But saying that your loft space will be colder. Personally I would recommend it hope this is of help"
Answered on 20th Apr 2023 - Member since Apr 2023 - report
"Between the calling joists will be fine laying on top of the plasterboard"
Answered on 20th Apr 2023 - Member since Feb 2023 - report
"Roof rafters would be the correct way to do it. However if there isn’t anything connected to the joists, both can be insulated."
Answered on 20th Apr 2023 - Member since Mar 2023 - report
"It would be better to insulate both between and above you need to use 150mm between and 150mm above as the regs say 270mm minimum. You cannot getting 270mm insulation so you need 2x150mm or 3x100mm if you need any more information don't hesitate to contact st roofing and property maintenance."
Answered on 27th Apr 2023 - Member since Feb 2023 - report
"As mentioned by my other quote my job member's it really a lot to do with the use of the space to that end if you want to use your loft space for living area then it would require putting insulation possibly kingspan or similar between the rafters and you would have to give at least 50mm space behind so that air can keep the roof timber ventilation up to the satisfaction of your local authority also depending on the depth of your roof timbers it would possibly require more insulated plasterboard to meet requirements if on the other hand if you want more storage space then if possible fill between ceiling joists with glass wool in this case it would be far cheaper good luck with your project and we wish you all the best


Yours R Hepburn for kingsknowe joinery and construction"
Answered on 28th Apr 2023 - Member since Apr 2023 - report
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