How does insulation improve my home’s energy efficiency?

Insulation reduces heat transfer, helping to maintain consistent temperatures throughout your home. This lowers energy consumption, reducing heating and cooling costs and a smaller carbon footprint.

Can I get financial assistance for my renovation project?

Yes, grants are often available for energy-efficient renovations. Adopting a whole house approach can help you qualify for maximum financial assistance. Visit resources like seai.ie for more information on available grants.

How does the ‘whole house’ approach compare to a piecemeal approach?

A piecemeal approach may lead to incomplete energy savings, obstruct future improvements, and potentially damage the structure or pose health risks. The whole-house approach, on the other hand, ensures that all renovations work together for maximum benefits.

What is the ‘whole house’ approach to renovation?

The whole-house approach considers the entire home, ensuring that each renovation phase is planned to complement future improvements. This method maximises energy efficiency, reduces costs, and minimises the risk of disruptions.

How much heat can be lost through poorly insulated building parts?

Up to 30% through roofs Up to 30% through walls Up to 10% through floors

What areas of my home should I consider insulating during a renovation?

Key areas to focus on include: External Walls: Prevents heat loss and improves energy efficiency. Internal Walls: Helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures and can reduce noise. Roofs: Up to 30% of heat can be lost through poorly insulated roofs. Floors: Insulating floors can prevent heat loss and moisture problems.

What are the benefits of choosing Unilin Insulation for my renovation?

Unilin Insulation offers a wide range of high-quality products for different areas of your home, along with technical advice to help you choose the best solutions for your specific needs. Their products are designed to improve energy efficiency, comfort, and sustainability.

Why is insulation important during a renovation project?

Insulation improves energy efficiency, maintaining a comfortable indoor environment, and reducing heating and cooling costs. Proper insulation can also increase the value of your property.

What are the benefits of external wall insulation?

External wall insulation improves a building’s thermal performance without reducing interior space. It also enhances weatherproofing, reduces moisture penetration, and can improve a home’s exterior appearance.

Can I retrofit insulation into an existing home?

Yes, retrofitting insulation into an existing home is possible. It is a practical way to upgrade the energy efficiency of older buildings, and solutions are available for walls, roofs, floors, and framing.

How can I maximise comfort and warmth in my home through insulation?

By insulating key areas such as external walls, roofs, floors, and internal walls, you can significantly reduce heat loss, maintain a consistent indoor temperature, and create a more comfortable living environment year-round.

Why should I consult an energy assessor for my renovation project?

An energy assessor can evaluate your home’s energy performance, suggest suitable insulation measures, and help plan a whole house renovation that maximises efficiency and long-term savings.

What are the capital cost tiers for insulation upgrades?

Capital cost tiers provide an indicative range of costs for different renovation measures:

What is the CO2 Saving Tier?

CO2 Saving Tiers categorise the amount of carbon dioxide reduction achieved through different insulation measures. Higher savings tiers indicate more significant reductions in carbon emissions, contributing to environmental sustainability.

How does Unilin Insulation support sustainable living?

Unilin’s insulation products help reduce energy consumption, directly contributing to lower carbon emissions. They are also designed with sustainability in mind, supporting a healthier and more sustainable living environment.

What should I consider when planning insulation for a renovation?

Consider the following: Areas of heat loss – Identify where most energy is lost (walls, roofs, floors). Budget – Plan for short and long-term savings. Grant eligibility – Check for any available incentives or rebates. Professional advice – Consult with energy assessors or insulation experts to choose the right products.

How can insulation help reduce energy bills?

Good quality insulation minimises heat loss, so your heating and cooling systems don’t need to work as hard. This results in lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills.

What does Unilin offer the different types of insulation products?

Unilin offers various products including: External Wall Insulation: WARM-R SD E Grey EWB, Stonewool EWI. Internal Wall Insulation: Thermal liners like XT/TL, SR/TBFL-MF. Roof Insulation: Products like RAFTERLOC and FR/ALU. Floor Insulation: XO/UF and XT/PR_UF.

What types of floors can be insulated?

Our solutions suit solid and suspended floors, including ground-supported slabs, timber floors, and more. They can also be used in new construction or renovation projects.

How does floor insulation help with underfloor heating?

By combining insulation and underfloor heating, products like XT/PR_UF and XO/UF ensure efficient heat distribution, reducing energy usage and keeping your home comfortable.

Can floor insulation be used in renovations?

Yes, products like XO/UF are perfect for retrofitting older buildings and improving thermal performance.

What framing insulation products are available?

We offer: XO/FB (Steel & Timber Frame): High-performance XtroLiner framing board suitable for use within steel and timber frame systems.

What is framing insulation, and how does it work?

Framing insulation is designed for use within steel and timber frame constructions. It can be fitted between studs or used as a sheathing board, providing a thermal barrier that reduces heat loss and improves energy efficiency.

Is roof insulation suitable for both new builds and renovations?

Yes, our roof insulation products are suitable for new builds and retrofits, ensuring improved energy efficiency and compliance with modern building standards.

What is the difference between loft decking and pitched roof insulation?

Loft Decking (XT/Walk-R): This insulation provides safe access to utilities, like water tanks, in the loft area.

What are the benefits of insulating pitched roofs?

Insulating pitched roofs reduces heat loss, prevents condensation, and ensures the home stays warm in winter and cool in summer. Products like XT/PR_UF and XO/PR are designed for optimal thermal performance.

What roof insulation products are available?

We offer a range of products: XT/Walk-R (Insulated Loft Decking): Combines PIR insulation with OSB board for safe access and high insulation values RAFTERLOC: Variable width pitched roof board ideal for tight fitting between rafters. XT/PR_UF & XO/PR (Pitched Roof): High-efficiency insulation solutions for sloped roofs with minimal intrusion into living spaces. FR/ALU (Flat Roof): Polyisocyanurate insulation suitable for flat roofs with vapour-resistant aluminium facings.

What is roof insulation, and why is it important?

Roof insulation helps to reduce heat loss through a building’s roof, maintaining a consistent temperature inside. It improves energy efficiency, lowers heating costs, and reduces carbon emissions.

Are there any grants or incentives for installing external wall insulation?

In some regions, grants, rebates, or incentives may encourage homeowners and businesses to improve energy efficiency through insulation. Check with local authorities or energy providers for available programmes.

What are the benefits of using XO/FB framing boards?

XO/FB provides high compressive strength, low thermal conductivity, and is lightweight, making it easy to install. It also ensures better thermal performance or reduced insulation thickness, making it ideal for renovations up to 18 metres in height.

Is framing insulation suitable for renovation projects?

Yes, XO/FB framing boards can be used in both new construction and renovation projects, helping to enhance the thermal efficiency of existing buildings.

What are the benefits of insulating floors with XT/PR_UF or XO/UF?

Both products provide high insulation values, are lightweight, and are easy to install. They improve floors’ U-value and are suitable for underfloor heating systems, ensuring even warmth distribution.

What floor insulation products do you offer?

Our floor insulation solutions includes: XT/PR_UF (Ground Supported & Suspended Floors): Lightweight PIR insulation with high compressive strength for underfloor heating applications. XO/UF (Solid & Suspended Floors): Superior performance PIR with a low thermal conductivity of 0.021 W/mK.

What is floor insulation, and why is it necessary?

Floor insulation reduces heat loss through a building’s floors, helping to keep rooms warmer and more energy efficient. It also prevents moisture problems and mould growth.

How do I choose between adhesive dab and mechanically fixed thermal liners?

Adhesive Dab (XT/TL): Best for plumb, even walls where installation speed is important. Mechanically Fixed (XT/TL-MF): Ideal for older, uneven walls that need a secure, long-lasting solution. Note: When upgrading existing properties, a professional should be engaged to assess the property for appropriate insulation treatments and effective detailing. Walls should be dry and decoration stripped back to the wall substrate. Appropriate ventilation strategies must be considered as part of the overall energy upgrade.

Can internal wall insulation reduce condensation?

Yes, products like SR/TBFL-MF are designed to reduce the risk of condensation, helping to prevent moisture-related problems in your home.

What are the benefits of using thermal liners for internal walls?

Thermal liners like XT/TL and XT/TL-MF provide insulation and drylining in one application, reducing the need for separate installations. They are suitable for various wall types, especially when interior space isn’t restricted.

What products are available for internal wall insulation?

Drylining, thermal laminates or thermal lining. Our range includes: XT/TL (Drylining with Adhesive Dabs): Combines Unilin PIR insulation with plasterboard, fixed with adhesive for easy installation. XT/TL-MF (Mechanically Fixed): Suitable for internal walls and sloped roofs, mechanically fixed for secure placement. SR/TBFL-MF (Fireline Thermal Laminate): High-performance insulation with a Euroclass B fire rating.

What is internal wall insulation, and why should I consider it?

Internal wall insulation also known as drylining, thermal laminates or thermal lining improves a buildings energy efficiency by adding a thermal barrier to the inside of the walls. This helps maintain a comfortable indoor environment and reduces heating costs.

How much energy savings can I expect from external wall insulation?

Energy savings depend on the building’s insulation levels and the chosen product. External wall insulation can significantly reduce heat loss, leading to lower energy bills and improved thermal comfort. A professional energy assessment can help estimate potential savings.

What is Close-R Checked?

An insulated cavity closer, such as Close-R Checked designed to seal and insulate wall cavities around window and door openings in masonry construction. Including Cavity closers in your build help to prevent thermal bridging, moisture ingress, air leakage and condensation, helping to improve a building’s energy efficiency, airtightness, and long-term durability. A Checked Close-R insulation piece is specially designed to incorporate a pre-formed rebate (or “check”) to accommodate window and door frames. This design ensures a secure fit, improved airtight seal, and improved thermal performance around openings, making installation faster and more precise for builders and contractors

How does ECO360 work?

ECO360 insulation works by reducing the transfer of heat through a building's walls, roofs, floors, and other structural components. Unilin Insulation’sBio-Enhanced PIR insulation solution places strong emphasis on environmental improvements throughout the manufacturing, delivery, and operational lifecycle of PIR insulation. By incorporating more sustainably sourced and environmentally conscious ingredients, ECO360 PIR represents another significant innovation in PIR insulation manufacturing. PIR insulation and thermal bridging To further minimise heat loss and reduce the risk of both surface and interstitial condensation, careful detailing during insulation installation is essential. Our cavity wall insulation solutions incorporate engineered tongue-and-groove or rebated edge profiles, which help

What are the biggest causes of poor thermal performance in refurbishment projects?

The biggest causes of poor thermal performance in a refurbishment project can be subject to a few issues. A ‘performance gap’ can be a leading cause of poor thermal performance due to poorly installed or damaged insulation, thermal bridging gaps within the insulation layer or at reveals such as windows and doors. Ensuring that insulation is specified and installed with best-practice implementations gives us the security that poor thermal performance issues will not arise.

Is technical support available during design and construction?

Yes, technical support is available throughout both the design and construction stages of your project with Unilin Insulation. Our technical team can assist with the initial specification through to the building completion. With more than 40 years of industry experience, we can advise on insulation specifications, detailing, build-ups, provide on-site toolbox talks, CPDs as well as practical technical advice to help ensure your project achieves lasting performance and compliance.

What Insulation is best for use in a timber-framed construction?

The “best” insulation for timber‑frame construction depends on the balance between thermal performance, build‑up thickness, airtightness and moisture control, but, in practice, PIR insulation and insulated systems are among the most effective solutions for meeting Part L and low‑energy targets. In timber frame walls, insulation is typically installed between and/or across the studs. Options such as PIR insulation (e.g. Unilin Thin‑R Timber Frame systems) are widely used because of their low thermal conductivity (around 0.022 W/mK), meaning they can achieve the required U‑values with less thickness than mineral wool or other fibrous materials. This is particularly beneficial where wall depth is limited

What insulation is best for reducing thermal bridging in Cavity Wall construction?

In cavity wall construction, one of the most effective ways to reduce thermal bridging is through the use of a full‑fill insulation system that maintains continuity across the wall and at key junctions. The Unilin CavityTherm full‑fill system is specifically designed for this purpose, combining high‑performance PIR insulation with a range of purpose‑made accessories, such as insulated cavity closers, lintels, preformed corner board and junction details that address common thermal bridge locations around openings, floor edges and wall junctions. Additionally, Unilin offers partial‑fill cavity wall systems supported by thermally modelled, accredited junction details, enabling designers to control linear thermal bridging

How do I achieve Falls within a Flat Roof Application?

Achieving falls within a flat roof application has been made simple with Unilin Insulation’s Xtrafall, a Tapered System that provides the designer and contractor with a precise, technically excellent solution to providing thermal roof insulation and bespoke drainage on flat roofing that avoids water retention and consequent damage in traditional flat roofs.

Why is a Fire-rated cavity closer required?

A fire‑rated cavity closer is required to seal cavities at window and door openings, preventing the hidden spread of fire, smoke and hot gases while also improving thermal continuity and moisture control at critical junctions. Proprietary solutions from Unilin, such as the Close‑R insulated cavity closer and the Safe‑R Close‑R fire‑rated cavity closer, provide compliant detailing options for designers and specifiers. In particular, the Safe‑R Close‑R system combines phenolic insulation with stone wool to deliver both thermal performance and fire protection, achieving in excess of 4 hours fire resistance in a 150 mm cavity when tested to EN 1366‑4, while maintaining

What insulation can be used with underfloor heating?

Composite foil‑faced PIR insulation boards are particularly well suited to underfloor heating systems because they offer thermal performance and excellent compressive strength in a thin build‑up, ensuring heat is directed upwards into the living space rather than lost into the floor structure. The composite foil facings help improve thermal efficiency and support airtightness when joints are properly sealed. Unilin floor insulation products are designed specifically for use with screeded UFH systems, providing a continuous insulation layer that enhances system responsiveness and overall heating efficiency when correctly detailed and installed.

Does ECO360 help achieve Passive House or nZEB standards?

Yes. The U-value which ECO360 Insulation delivers helps us to achieve Passive House standards and NZEB standards by: Improve fabric efficiency Reduced thermal bridging Support airtight construction strategies This contributes to meeting or exceeding UK Building Regulations and supports voluntary standards such as Passive House and nZEB design principles. Have a look at our case study on ECO360 In Waterford where we helped to achieve A-rated, energy-efficient social housing which was awarded a Pride of Place award in 2023. Sustainability Our company has always been mindful of our impact on the environment and we strive to act and invest in

Renovation Support and Services Archives

What is included in the free consultation service?

The free consultation service connects you with Unilin technical experts who provide one-to-one advice on insulation solutions, guiding you through the process to ensure your home renovation meets your energy efficiency goals.

Are there insulation solutions for all budgets?

Yes, Unilin Insulation provides various insulation products designed to meet budget requirements, from basic upgrades to comprehensive energy-efficient renovations.

How can I book a free one-to-one consultation?

You can contact Unilin Insulation directly to schedule a free consultation. During the consultation, their experts will discuss your specific needs and recommend the best insulation options for your renovation.

What technical support services does Unilin Insulation offer?

Unilin Insulation provides a range of services including:

Certified U-value calculations and condensation risk analysis.
Fabric performance specifications for ‘A’ rated buildings.
Pre-design assessments and Y-value performance checks.
Pre-tender specification checks.

What is a U-value calculation, and why is it important?

A U-value calculation measures the rate of heat transfer through a building element (e.g., wall, roof, floor). Lower U-values indicate better insulation performance. Accurate U-value calculations help in choosing the right insulation to enhance energy efficiency.

What is a BER/SAP calculation?

BER (Building Energy Rating) and SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) calculations assess the energy efficiency of a home. Unilin offers consultations to help you understand how your insulation choices impact your home’s energy rating.

How can Unilin Insulation help me achieve an ‘A’ rated building?

Our technical team provides fabric performance specifications and design advice to ensure that your building meets high energy efficiency standards, which can contribute to an ‘A’ energy rating.

What does the pre-design assessment service include?

Pre-design assessments involve evaluating your renovation plans to identify opportunities for improving insulation performance. This ensures that all design elements work together for optimal energy efficiency.

Why should I choose Unilin Insulation for my renovation project?

Unilin Insulation offers a comprehensive range of solutions tailored to different applications and budgets. Their expert advice, combined with a strong focus on energy efficiency, helps you achieve the best results for your renovation.

Can Unilin Insulation help with installation?

Yes, they offer installation training and an installation validation process to ensure that insulation is properly installed, maximising its performance and longevity.

What types of projects does Unilin Insulation support?

Unilin Insulation provides prompt technical support for projects of all sizes, from small home upgrades to large-scale renovations, ensuring all customers receive the best possible service.

How does Unilin ensure compliance with building regulations?

Their technical team checks project specifications against relevant building standards, ensuring compliance and supporting you in achieving the desired insulation performance.

How can Unilin Insulation help during the tendering process?

Their pre-tender insulation specification checks ensure that all details are correct, helping you avoid costly mistakes and ensuring the chosen solutions align with your project’s requirements.

Is there support for planning renovations in new builds and existing homes?

Yes, Unilin provides support for both new build and renovation projects. They offer pre-design assessments to help plan efficient insulation solutions from the ground up.

What benefits does improved insulation bring to my home renovation?

Better insulation improves energy efficiency, reduces heating and cooling costs, minimises the risk of condensation and mould, and enhances overall comfort. It also contributes to a higher property value and supports a more sustainable living environment.

How soon can I expect a response from the technical team?

Unilin Insulation commits to providing prompt responses, ensuring that your project moves forward without delays. Regardless of the project size, you can expect timely and effective advice.

How can Unilin Insulation help me achieve my renovation goals?

Unilin Insulation offers expert guidance on the best insulation solutions for your project. Whether you’re upgrading part or all of your home insulation, their technical team provides personalised advice to help you choose the most effective and efficient insulation options.

Can Unilin’s technical team assist with energy grants?

While Unilin Insulation doesn’t directly offer grants, their technical team can help you navigate the requirements and benefits of energy efficiency grants, guiding you on how to maximise financial assistance for your insulation upgrades.

Renovation Support and Services

What is included in the free consultation service?

Are there insulation solutions for all budgets?

How can I book a free one-to-one consultation?

What technical support services does Unilin Insulation offer?

What is a U-value calculation, and why is it important?

What is a BER/SAP calculation?

How can Unilin Insulation help me achieve an ‘A’ rated building?

What does the pre-design assessment service include?

Why should I choose Unilin Insulation for my renovation project?

Can Unilin Insulation help with installation?

What types of projects does Unilin Insulation support?

How does Unilin ensure compliance with building regulations?

How can Unilin Insulation help during the tendering process?

Is there support for planning renovations in new builds and existing homes?

What benefits does improved insulation bring to my home renovation?

How soon can I expect a response from the technical team?

How can Unilin Insulation help me achieve my renovation goals?

Can Unilin’s technical team assist with energy grants?

Join our mailing list.

Resources

CPD Registration