Building your own home is an exciting journey. However, it can also present numerous challenges, one of which is deciding on the right materials. At Insulation Merchant, we understand that not all self-builders are familiar with all these products, which is why we are here to help. We have broken down the top insulation products and their benefits to help you make a more informed decision and ensure you can create a warm and comfortable home all year round.
If you would like more information on these products, please don’t hesitate to contact our team of experts. They can provide guidance, custom pricing, and technical advice based on your specific project.
The importance of choosing the right insulation!
Proper insulation plays a crucial role in regulating indoor temperatures, reducing heat loss and cutting energy bills. With the right materials, your home can stay warm in winter and cool in summer while also reducing your environmental impact. Whether you are looking for natural, breathable options or high-performance modern solutions, we have something to suit every build.
Accessories also play an important part in the successful use of insulation in a build, particularly airtightness products which are crucial to create a high-performing building envelope and protect the building fabric from moisture.
Even if you are instructing a turnkey solution for your new home, from design to build, knowing what benefits different materials offer and how they are used can pay dividends.
Our top insulation picks for self-builders
Cost-effective
Knauf Glass Mineral Wool offers excellent thermal, acoustic and fire-resistant properties, making it a versatile choice for walls, floors and roofs. It also creates a safer, quieter and more energy-efficient home, making it a trusted, cost-effective solution for residential insulation.
2. Unilin PIR Insulation Board
Lightweight yet highly durable, Unilin PIR Board delivers good thermal performance for walls, floors and roofs. Its high insulating value makes it an excellent choice for energy-efficient homes at a still reasonable cost per square metre.
High-performance
Safe-R Phenolic Foam Board is a high-performance insulation with excellent fire resistance. Featuring low emissivity foil facings on both sides, it offers superior thermal efficiency and enhanced safety for various building applications.
2. Kingspan Kooltherm
Kingspan Kooltherm is a high-performance insulation range featuring a thermoset phenolic core, offering excellent thermal efficiency and low thermal conductivity. Ideal for a variety of applications, it provides superior fire resistance and moisture control, delivering exceptional energy savings and performance.
Natural
For eco-conscious builders, STEICO Wood Fibre offers a sustainable, breathable, and highly effective insulation solution. It enhances thermal performance and soundproofing while supporting a healthier indoor environment. Its breathable properties help regulate humidity and support a healthier indoor climate, making it ideal for energy-efficient and environmentally friendly construction projects.
2. IndiNature Hemp Insulation
Hemp insulation is a fantastic natural option that provides excellent thermal and acoustic performance, helping to create a comfortable and eco-friendly living space. With its ability to regulate moisture, hemp insulation contributes to improved indoor air quality and a healthier living environment. It has the added benefit of being produced in the UK.
3. Thermafleece
Made from British sheep’s wool, Thermafleece is a highly sustainable insulation material that provides excellent thermal and acoustic properties. It is breathable, helping you regulate moisture and improve indoor air quality, all while maintaining a warm and comfortable home. Thermafleece is also easy to install and safe to handle, making it an ideal choice for installers and DIY-ers alike who prioritise both performance and sustainability in their projects.
Airtightness
For a reliable airtight seal, Pro Clima Tapes provide long-lasting adhesion, ensuring your insulation system remains efficient and effective in preventing heat loss. Creating a durable barrier against drafts, moisture and air infiltration, their membranes and tapes enhance the overall thermal efficiency of your space, contributing to energy savings and a more comfortable indoor environment.
2. SIGA
To achieve superior airtightness and moisture control, SIGA tapes and membranes are the ideal choice. Designed for long-term durability, they enhance insulation efficiency and improve overall building performance. These membranes offer excellent resistance to air and water penetration, ensuring that your building stays dry, energy-efficient and comfortable all year round.
Accessories
This breathable, natural plaster improves indoor air quality while offering a durable and eco-friendly finish. It’s an excellent addition for those looking to enhance sustainability in their build. An excellent alternative to Gypsum-based products, it helps regulate humidity, prevents mould growth and reduces the environmental impact of construction.
2. Flexible Strip Cavity Barrier
This versatile, self-adhesive intumescent strip ensures fire safety by forming a robust seal behind the ventilated cladding and cavity walls. Available in various sizes, it’s a practical solution for enhancing passive fire protection in your build.
Why choose Insulation Merchant?
- Wide Range of Products: We hold a large variety of insulation products and accessories, enabling us to help you at every stage of your project.
- Fast, Reliable Delivery: We stock a wide range of insulation products, ensuring quick dispatch across the UK, including the Highlands and Islands.
- Expert Support: Our team is available to offer guidance and advice on choosing the best products for your project.
Get a personalised quote today
Every self-build project is unique, and our team is here to help you find the best insulation solutions at the most competitive prices. Get in touch with us today for a no-obligation quote and expert guidance on your insulation and/or project needs!
