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Did you know that 30% of existing Australian homes are either uninsulated or lacks proper insulation? And that two-thirds of Australian homes have heating and cooling appliances, but one-third still does not have insulation. Over a quarter of a home’s energy losses may occur through an insinuated ceiling. It costs when your home isn’t properly insulated, and electricity prices are on the incline. Although installing ceiling insulation batts won’t solve all your problems, it is a step in the right direction.  

How ceiling insulation works?

Ceiling Insulation works as a barrier to prevent heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer through the roof of your home. In other words, it helps to control temperatures within your home and minimize your reliance on heating and cooling appliances. In turn, reducing you power bills, energy usage and greenhouse gas emissions. The difference that ceiling insulation can make to your home should not be underestimated. Research undertaken by the infrastructure group Pitt & Sherry estimates that the average Australian could save $6000 in electricity bill over the next 30 years, by insulating their home above current BCA national standards. 

What does R-value mean?

The R-value rating of an insulation product indicates its ability to resist heat-flow. 

The total R-value of bulk insulation is stated by the manufacturer and is measured according to the thickness and density of the material. Reflective insulation is given an up and down R-value rating and measures the product’s direction of heat flow.

Up R-values: describes material with resistance to upward heat flow (also known as winter R-values). 

Down R-value: describes materials with resistant to downward heat flow (also known as summer R-values).  

In Australia, a minimum R-value of 4.1 is recommended for most climate zones. However, this differs for cooler climates and alpine zones where an R-value of 6.3 is recommended for ceiling insulation. 

Types of Ceiling Insulation:

Insulation Batts: Ceiling insulation batts are the most common form used in Australia and are pre-cut sections of insulation for easy installation. Designed to fit snugly between ceiling studs and joists, they are less messy and easier to work with than other forms of insulation. Choose between 430mm or 580mm width batts. 

Insulation Rolls: Available in pre-cut widths, either 430mm or 580mm and in continuous lengths of 4m to 20m. Ideal for ceiling spaces where longer runs are required. Ceiling insulation rolls may be backed with foil-facing to be installed under metal roofs. 

Foam Board Insulation: Foam boards are versatile, durable and can be cut to fit virtually any space. They are designed to achieve high R-values in a narrow thickness. The most common material used for foam board insulation is EPS and XPS. 

Vapour barrier: Rood Sarking can provide protection against radiant heat and moisture in your roof area. Vapour barriers control the movement of moisture through insulation, this is important as excess moisture can affect the performance of insulation. 

How much insulation do you need?

The amount of insulation and R-value required varies across the country. Australia is a large country with varying temperatures and climates between inland, coastal, desert and mountain range areas. It is important to consider which climate you live in and choose the most appropriate insulation and R-value for your zone. 

Ceiling Insulation Tips:

• Wear personal protective clothing when installing ceiling insulation.
• The most economical time to install insulation is during the construction phase of your home. 
• Ceiling insulation can be retrofitted and homes with existing insulation may be topped up to increase the R-value and thermal performance of your insulation. 
• Ensure any water leaks and moisture entry is fixed before installing insulation. 

View our installation videos for more tips and tricks.