Traditional Loft Insulation types: an overview
When it comes to insulating your loft, there are several traditional options commonly used in UK homes. Each has its own characteristics, benefits, and drawbacks.
Blanket Roll
This is the most widely used type, typically made from glass mineral wool or sheep’s wool. It comes in rolls and is laid between and over the joists. For example, Knauf Loft Roll 44 is a popular choice, offering good thermal performance and easy installation. Natural options like Thermafleece CosyWool are also available for those seeking a sustainable solution.
Loose-Fill
Loose-fill insulation is made from lightweight materials such as cellulose, mineral wool, or cork granules. It’s ideal for topping up existing insulation or filling awkward spaces. While it can be effective, it may settle over time and is not suitable for draughty lofts.
Blown-Fibre
This type involves blowing loose fibres into the loft using specialist equipment. It’s a good option for hard-to-reach areas, but usually requires professional installation and can be more expensive than blanket insulation.
Sheet (Rigid Board)
Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam is applied as a liquid that expands to fill gaps. It provides excellent air sealing and thermal performance, but as many UK homeowners have discovered, it can cause issues with moisture, ventilation, and even mortgage approval. Removal is difficult and costly, and some lenders may refuse mortgages on properties with spray foam.
What is Foil Loft Insulation
Foil loft insulation is a modern, high-performance solution designed to reflect heat and improve energy efficiency in your home. Unlike traditional insulation, which mainly slows down heat transfer, foil insulation uses multiple reflective layers to bounce radiant heat back into your living space, keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Two of the leading products in the UK are YBS SuperQuilt and SuperFOIL SF19+. Both are multi-layered, lightweight, and easy to install, making them suitable for a wide range of properties—from modern builds to older homes.
- YBS SuperQuilt features 19 layers of reflective foil, wadding, and insulation, providing a certified thermal resistance of up to 2.50 m²K/W. It’s BBA certified and suitable for roofs, walls, and floors.
- SuperFOIL SF19+ also offers 19 layers and a thermal resistance of 2.97 m²K/W, with a slim 45mm profile. It’s certified for use in new builds and retrofits, and is fully recyclable at the end of its life.
You can find more technical details and certifications on the YBS SuperQuilt and SuperFOIL SF19+ manufacturer pages.
Key Benefits Of Foil Insulation
1. Superior Thermal Performance
2. Space-Saving Design
One of the standout advantages is how little room foil insulation takes up. With a slim profile (as little as 40-45mm thick), you can maximise your loft space for storage or conversion, unlike bulky mineral wool rolls or rigid boards.
3. Moisture Control and Mould Prevention
Both YBS SuperQuilt and SuperFOIL SF19+ act as vapour control layers, helping to prevent condensation and black mould—common issues with traditional insulation. This is especially important in the UK, where damp and mould can lead to health problems and legal obligations for homeowners and landlords.
4. Longevity and Durability
Foil insulation is designed to last the lifetime of your property. It won’t sag, settle, or degrade over time, and both YBS and SuperFOIL offer robust guarantees for extra peace of mind.
5. Easy Installation
Foil insulation is lightweight and flexible, making it easier and less disruptive to install than spray foam or rigid boards. Many homeowners choose to install it themselves, but professional fitting is also available for the best results.
6. Environmentally Friendly
Both YBS SuperQuilt and SuperFOIL SF19+ use recycled materials in their construction and are fully recyclable at the end of their life, making them a sustainable choice.
7. Value for Money
While the initial cost may be higher than basic mineral wool, foil insulation’s performance, longevity, and energy savings make it a cost-effective investment over time.
Real World Results: Case Studies and Evidence
The benefits of foil loft insulation aren’t just theoretical—they’re backed by real-world results and customer experiences. For example, SuperFOIL shares several case studies where homeowners have seen significant improvements in comfort and reductions in energy bills after installing their SF19+ insulation. In one instance, a homeowner reported a noticeable difference in warmth and a reduction in heating costs, all while preserving valuable loft space.
Similarly, YBS Insulation highlights projects where SuperQuilt has been used in both new builds and retrofits, helping properties meet or exceed building regulations for thermal efficiency. Installers and homeowners alike praise the ease of installation and the immediate impact on home comfort.
These real-life examples show that foil insulation isn’t just a smart choice on paper—it delivers tangible benefits in everyday homes across the UK.
Why Choose LoftFoil for Your Loft Insulation?
At LoftFoil, we specialise in supplying and installing the very best in foil loft insulation, including YBS SuperQuilt and SuperFOIL SF19+. Our team is fully trained and experienced, ensuring your insulation is fitted to the highest standard for maximum performance.
We understand that every home is different, so we offer tailored advice and solutions to suit your property and your needs. Whether you’re looking to upgrade an older loft, convert your attic space, or simply want to cut your energy bills, we’re here to help.
With LoftFoil, you can be confident you’re getting a long-lasting, high-performance solution that’s good for your home, your wallet, and the environment.
