Insulating Old Roofs

If you do have existing roof insulation the first thing to do is to check the depth.

Insulating old roofs.

If you want to avoid internal changes you can do so by insulating externally. Caulk window trim and use weatherstripping to reduce air leaks. They are often advertised as a diy option but those who have done it suggest that it requires skill and experience to do well. With an assumed pre existing u value of 2 23w m the best options are as follows.

Alternative options for insulating old roofs one modern option for existing buildings is sprayed foam. Equally the reverse is true. U value 0 38w m. One way to insulate walls of an old house is to focus on the home s exterior.

Insulation board should be added between the old and new roof systems to ensure proper insulation and to reflect heat from the outside. Install siding over the insulation. Suitable insulation includes natural fibre based products made of sheep s wool or hemp as well as mineral wools. Attach 1 inch foam board insulation.

Permeable insulation works well with old buildings that breathe. Replace old windows with energy efficient units. The other option is loose fill or blown insulation. Plasterboard 50mm pur insulation in 50mm timber stud with 50mm vented cavity to the existing wall.

There is a good deal of controversy around these systems.