Is Fibreglass Loft Insulation Illegal?

• What is fibreglass?
• The dangers of fibreglass
• The pros and cons of fibreglass
• What are the alternative loft insulation products?
• Contact our team today

Fibreglass loft insulation is not illegal in the UK. It is one of the most commonly used materials for insulating homes thanks to its effective thermal performance and cost-efficiency. While the rules governing construction and insulating materials emphasise safety and ecological considerations, they do not necessarily prohibit particular compounds outright.

It is crucial for homeowners and contractors to adhere to safe handling practices during installation because improper handling can pose health risks. Protective gear should always be worn to prevent irritation or the more serious health issues associated with fibreglass.

Here at ICE Thermal, we offer our loft insulation installation services nationwide. Our insulation installers have access to a wide range of top quality insulation materials, and can reduce heat loss in your home by up to 25%.

Keep reading to learn more about fibreglass and fibreglass insulation's dangers. 

What is fibreglass?

Fibreglass, known for its robust insulation properties, consists of extremely fine glass fibres. This material has become a staple in building construction and renovation projects due to its effectiveness in reducing energy costs by maintaining temperature control within structures.

The process of making fibreglass involves melting glass and spinning it into microscopic strands. Subsequently, these microscopic threads are interlaced to fabricate a substance that mimics the feel of sheep's fleece. As an insulator, these threads capture air pockets, decelerating the movement of warm air, cold air, and noise.

Fibreglass is a popular solution because of its adaptability - it easily integrates into different building sections from attics to basements, enhancing energy conservation and lowering monthly expenses. It can be installed in various parts of a building including lofts, walls, and floors. You can learn more about fibreglass here. 

The dangers of fibreglass

Fibreglass insulation poses dangers that homeowners should be aware of. The tiny glass fibres can become airborne and when they are inhaled or come in contact with the skin, may cause various health issues.

Respiratory issues

Inhalation of fibreglass particles can lead to irritation of the throat, nose, and eyes. For individuals exposed over a longer period, there is an increased risk of developing more severe, long-term respiratory conditions. Research indicates that individuals engaged in the manipulation of fibreglass tend to exhibit a heightened susceptibility towards serious respiratory problems, including bronchitis.

In light of these dangers, wearing safety gear like masks and eye protection is key when putting in or taking out such materials. Ensuring a good flow of air is vital to prevent fibreglass particles from lingering in the air within confined areas, too.

Skin irritation

Contact with fibreglass materials can cause dermatitis. This results from the tiny glass shards piercing the skin and causing itching, redness, and discomfort. Wearing protective clothing like gloves and long sleeves reduces direct exposure, thus minimising potential harm. For those who experience significant discomfort, you should speak to healthcare professionals immediately.

The pros and cons of fibreglass

The advantages of fibreglass insulation

• It has high thermal resistance or R-value, making it very effective at insulating buildings
• It is cost-effective compared to other materials on the market
• It is a very adaptable material that can be used across different sections of a building's anatomy, ranging from the walls and ceilings to the foundational floors
• Some manufacturers now produce eco-friendly options that contain recycled content

The disadvantages of fibreglass insulation

• It can cause serious health issues if not handled correctly or disturbed
• A lot of installers do not put in a sufficient amount of fibreglass so it may not be the most effective insulation
• If it gets wet, such as from a leak in the roof, it will need to be replaced as mould can start to grow on it

What are the alternative loft insulation products?

Cellulose insulation

Crafted from repurposed paper goods, cellulose is an eco-friendly type of insulation that provides outstanding heat retention. Boric acid is added to enhance its resistance to fire and repel unwanted critters, elevating its protective qualities. Cellulose can be installed using wet or dry methods depending on the application area.

This material boasts a higher R-value per inch than fibreglass, meaning it insulates better by trapping air in smaller spaces. 

Mineral wool insulation

Sometimes referred to as rock wool or slag wool, mineral wool is made from basalt rock and steel industry slag. Fusing basalt rock with steel slag yields an insulation blend that offers fire resistance, and also excels in muffling noise and preserving warmth.

A significant advantage of mineral wool is its ability to retain heat while still allowing moisture to pass through, reducing risks associated with dampness such as mould growth within walls. Additionally, its dense structure makes it an ideal solution for high-temperature applications where other materials may fail.

Spray foam insulation

Spray foam offers unparalleled sealing capabilities due to its expansive nature upon application. It fills even the smallest gaps and cracks in your loft space which traditional batts might miss; this prevents drafts more effectively than many other forms of insulation.

The two main types—open-cell (softer) spray foam allows breathability for moisture control whereas closed-cell (denser) variants add structural strength along with higher resistance against water ingress. You can learn more about loft insulation and how it works in this blog. 

Contact our team today

Our operatives have 10+ years of experience installing insulation in domestic and commercial properties. They are available nationwide, 365 days a year, including bank holidays. 

Get in touch with our friendly team today on 020 3376 4802 or at [email protected] to learn more about our loft insulation installation services. We also offer a wide range of thermal and acoustic insulation services.