My builder didn't add any insulation into the small sloping roof void above my ground floor extension. BC signed it off and builders are long gone so that's not an option, but the room gets really cold. Is there any DIY way to add it retrospectively? There's a couple of LED down lighters in that part of the ceiling which would give easy access to the void.
How to add insulation here
- Thread starter pmx_super
- Start date
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Not without having the internal ceiling down no. I'd be onto the building inspector that should never have been signed off without him seeing it insulated so I'd be pushing he either produces the documented evidence he took or his insurance pays towards the repair cost.
Just speculating, but are you sure there's no insulation up there?
The building work looks a reasonable quality (although I don't see any vents for that roof space), and without insulation, that area would be asking to be covered in condensation and mould.
Can you remove a downlighter and shine a light up into the void, maybe a phone could fit through to take a picture?
The building work looks a reasonable quality (although I don't see any vents for that roof space), and without insulation, that area would be asking to be covered in condensation and mould.
Can you remove a downlighter and shine a light up into the void, maybe a phone could fit through to take a picture?
Agree, possibly proper breathable membrane.
You (or a cavity wall installer) could have a go at blowing some fluff or polystyrene beads through the light holes.
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Just popped out a light and shone a torch in there. No insulation for sure. There is a breathable membrane under the tiles though.
The main extension was huge and they had tonnes of loft roll knocking about, so I think it was just an oversight.
I was wondering if polystyrene beads would be (a) effective and (b) safe around the down lights?
I'm afraid polystyrene beads aren't good around lighting, or PVC cables.
The down lighters would likely need insulation hoods anyway - and sealing the lights would help reduce the risk of condensation forming in the void space.
Polystyrene can have a reaction with the PVC insulation of electrical cables; the plasticiser leaches out, leaving the cables brittle.
There is also the possibility of blown insulation blocking any soffit vents, or over fascia vents that may have been installed.
Other types of blown insulation are available, but I think I would personally be tempted to take the ceiling down and start again.
Other types of blown insulation are available, but I think I would personally be tempted to take the ceiling down and start again.
Hang around, others may have further (and better) suggestions!
Although as @cdbe suggests, this should be something to take up with the builders - if you're willing to fight.
The final acceptance battle has been fought. I won't be re-opening that again. Wish I had been aware of this at the time.
I can not think of any other way but to take the roof off and insulate from above. But all the banging of refitting laths and such may end up cracking the plaster ceiling below.
Ok, so I'm resigned to taking out that section of ceiling, instead of removing the roof and going in from above. I'll DIY up to reboarding, so I'm now considering PIR vs. loft roll. It strikes me PIR will be easier to install, but never having done it would appreciate thoughts.
Loft roll every time. Did they fit eaves ventilation and continuous (venting) rafter tray?
Removing modern fixed battens is no fun. 65mm galv' lath nails have a grip, only a wisdom tooth could rival.
Are they ring shank nails, what gives them a grip better than old nails used for lath.
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