Insulation works by reducing the rate at which heat flows into or out of your home, helping to maintain a more consistent indoor temperature throughout the year. In colder months, it slows heat loss to keep your home warmer. In warmer months, it restricts heat gain, making the interior cooler and more comfortable. This thermal barrier reduces the load on heating and cooling systems, leading to improved energy efficiency and cost savings.

New Zealand homes are often exposed to fluctuating temperatures and high humidity, so effective insulation plays a vital role in creating a dry, healthy living environment. Bulk insulation—used in ceilings, underfloors, and walls—functions by trapping pockets of still air within its structure, which reduces heat flow. The performance of insulation depends not only on the material itself but also on how well it is installed.

Common materials used in New Zealand include glass wool, polyester, and wool. These materials are chosen for their thermal resistance, durability, moisture performance, and in some cases, acoustic benefits.

Correct installation is essential. Insulation must be fitted snugly, without gaps, compression, or thermal bridging, to perform as intended. When installed correctly across all key areas of a home, insulation significantly improves thermal performance, indoor comfort, and long-term energy savings.

To get the most benefit from insulation, you should insulate the ceiling, walls, and underfloor—these are the main areas where heat is lost or gained. Ceiling insulation is especially important, as a large amount of heat escapes through the roof. Wall insulation helps maintain consistent temperatures throughout the home and reduces noise, while underfloor insulation keeps cold air and moisture from rising through timber floors. A well-insulated home improves comfort, reduces energy use, and supports a drier, healthier indoor environment.

If you're retrofitting or renovating an older home, you may not need to completely replace your existing insulation. In many cases, a simple top-up in certain areas like the ceiling or underfloor can make a significant difference. Retrofits allow you to enhance your home's energy efficiency without major disruption. Ensuring all key areas are properly insulated can help you achieve a more comfortable, energy-efficient home without the need for a full renovation.

R-values measure the effectiveness of insulation in resisting heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the material's ability to prevent heat from passing through. In simple terms, a higher R-value means better insulation performance. The R-value depends on the type of insulation material, its thickness, and its density. For example, thicker insulation typically provides a higher R-value. When selecting insulation for your home, the right R-value will depend on factors like the climate, the area being insulated, and your specific energy efficiency goals.

The time it takes to install insulation depends on several factors, including the size of your home, the type of insulation being installed, and whether you're insulating a new build or retrofitting an existing home. On average, installation can take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days. Ceiling insulation, for example, may take a day or less, while larger projects like underfloor insulation or wall insulation can take longer. Our team will assess your home and provide a more accurate timeline based on your specific needs and the scope of the job.

Yes, you can install insulation yourself, especially in areas like the ceiling or underfloor, but keep in mind that it can be a labor-intensive job. Installing insulation properly requires time, effort, and the right tools to ensure it fits snugly without gaps or compression. If you don’t have experience, it can be challenging to achieve the best results, and poor installation can reduce the effectiveness of the insulation. While DIY installation might save on costs, hiring professionals can help save you time and ensure the job is done efficiently and correctly for optimal performance.