See how the right insulation choice can improve energy efficiency, reduce bills, and future-proof your home.
Cold roof vs warm roof insulation – what’s the difference?
Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
Cold roof insulation – what is it and what is it good for?
Cold roof insulation is an insulation method which involves installing the material horizontally between your roof joists. This prioritises heat retention in the living space below and leaves the loft area above uninsulated and cold (also the reason why it is called ‘cold roof’ insulation!).
Benefits of cold roof insulation for homeowners include:
- Low-impact installation – does not require any roof alterations
- Cost effective and mess-free – as the process is straightforward and does not require building modifications, you will naturally pay less with little to no mess during the installation
- Long-term savings – a properly insulated loft in a detached house can offer energy savings of up to £390 per year (source: Energy Saving Trust, 2025)
- Enhanced comfort and property value – focuses on keeping heat in the living area below and boosts your energy efficiency (and naturally – your EPC rating!)
- Storage expansion opportunities – lays the foundation for an invaluable storage area when paired with loft boarding installation
Cold roof insulation is not recommended for homeowners who are looking to transform their loft into a living space. As heat is not contained at that level, the area can only be used for storage purposes of items that are not temperature-sensitive, such as home decorations.
If you are looking for a cost effective, simple and mess-free way to boost your thermal efficiency, then cold roof insulation will be the service for you.
Warm roof insulation – what is it and what is it good for?
Warm roof insulation is when the material is installed above or between the roof rafters which keeps the entire loft area warm. Unlike cold roof insulation, this method insulates the roof itself rather than just the ceiling below.
You may choose this option if you want to use your loft as a hobby room or store items that are sensitive to lower temperatures. This method is also used for loft room conversions, flat or low pitch roofs.
Cold or warm roof insulation – which one to choose?
For homeowners looking to boost their property’s value, thermal efficiency, and comfort at a lower cost with long-term savings on energy costs, cold roof insulation would be the appropriate choice. Combined with professional loft boarding, you can transform your space into an invaluable and easily accessible storage area.
As an alternative, warm roof insulation is recommended for those aiming to transform their loft into a livable space or store items outside of low-temperature conditions.
Viridian’s offer
At Viridian, we specialise in cold roof insulation which we lay between your roof joists. We do this to ensure all heat is retained in your living space below.
To make the most out of your loft, homeowners who choose Viridian combine insulation with our loft boarding services. Loft boards are also included in our comprehensive, fixed-price loft insulation package deals that are designed to completely transform your loft and maximise your storage area.
Our services are carried out only by our own qualified and certified installers who will do the works to an excellent industry standard – that includes laying the material between the joists and ensuring there is always sufficient ventilation which will prevent damp and condensation from forming in the future.
Explore what Viridian can do for you below and get in touch for your home insulation works today!