Cost Comparison By Insulation Type
Find the perfect insulation solution for your home by comparing energy savings, costs, and installation requirements
About Insulation Types
Different insulation types offer distinct benefits in terms of energy savings, installation complexity, and cost-effectiveness. The right insulation solution for your home depends on factors like property age, construction type, existing insulation, and your budget for energy efficiency improvements.
This guide compares the most popular insulation types in the UK market, helping you understand their benefits, typical costs, and expected energy savings. Whether you're looking for quick wins or comprehensive upgrades, choosing the right insulation type is essential for maximizing your return on investment.
Quick Comparison
Most Efficient
Loft
Best Payback
Loft
Highest Savings
External
Easiest Install
Loft
Insulation Cost by Type
Insulation laid or installed in the loft space to prevent heat rising through the roof. Often the first and most cost-effective insulation upgrade for any home.
Advantages
- Highest impact for cost
- Suitable for all property types
- Can be DIY project
Best Suited For
- All property types
- First-time insulation projects
- Quick wins for energy efficiency
Key Features
- Multiple material options
- DIY or professional installation
- Easy to upgrade
Energy Rating
A+
Annual Savings
£375
Payback
1.8y
Price Range
£336-£504
Cavity Wall Insulation
Insulation installed into the cavity between the inner and outer walls of properties built between 1930-1980s. This is one of the most cost-effective insulation upgrades for suitable properties.
Advantages
- Cost-effective
- Quick installation (2-4 hours)
- No disruption to living space
Best Suited For
- Houses built 1930-1980s
- Properties with cavity walls
- Homes with high heating bills
Key Features
- Fills existing cavity
- No internal work required
- Quick installation
Energy Rating
A
Annual Savings
£350
Payback
3.2y
Price Range
£656-£984
External Wall Insulation
Insulation system applied to the outside of external walls, often with render or cladding finish. Most effective solid wall insulation method.
Advantages
- No internal disruption
- Protects existing walls
- Eliminates thermal bridges
Best Suited For
- Detached/semi-detached houses
- End terraces
- Properties needing major renovation
Key Features
- No loss of internal space
- Weather protection
- Thermal bridge elimination
Energy Rating
A
Annual Savings
£1320
Payback
6.666666666666667y
Price Range
£7,040-£10,560
Solid Wall Insulation
Insulation added to solid walls (pre-1930s properties) either internally or externally. More complex but essential for older properties without cavity walls.
Advantages
- Major energy savings potential
- Suitable for period properties
- Can improve appearance (external)
Best Suited For
- Pre-1930s properties
- Solid brick/stone walls
- Properties with high energy bills
Key Features
- Internal or external options
- Significant energy savings
- Improves comfort
Energy Rating
B
Annual Savings
£720
Payback
8.5y
Price Range
£4,800-£7,200
Roof Insulation
Insulation installed between, above, or below roof rafters. Essential for converted lofts and rooms in the roof space.
Advantages
- Essential for loft conversions
- Prevents ice dams
- Maintains roof ventilation
Best Suited For
- Loft conversions
- Rooms in roof
- Dormer windows
Key Features
- Multiple installation methods
- Essential for roof conversions
- Breathable options available
Energy Rating
A
Annual Savings
£600
Payback
6.666666666666667y
Price Range
£3,200-£4,800
Floor Insulation
Insulation installed under floors to prevent heat loss through the ground. Particularly important for suspended floors and properties with cellars.
Advantages
- Eliminates cold floors
- Reduces drafts
- Can be combined with underfloor heating
Best Suited For
- Suspended floors
- Properties with cellars
- Ground floor rooms
Key Features
- Under-floor or above-floor options
- Improves comfort significantly
- Reduces drafts
Energy Rating
B+
Annual Savings
£280
Payback
4.5y
Price Range
£1,920-£2,880
Internal Wall Insulation
Insulation boards or systems fitted to the inside face of external walls. Good option when external insulation is not possible.
Advantages
- No planning permission needed
- Can be done room by room
- Immediate improvement
Best Suited For
- Conservation areas
- Listed buildings
- Terraced houses
Key Features
- No external changes
- Works in conservation areas
- Immediate benefits
Energy Rating
B
Annual Savings
£480
Payback
6.666666666666667y
Price Range
£2,560-£3,840
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