Loft insulation recommended to homeowners
Home refurbishment / improvement
Green home improvements such as loft insulation could have both financial and environmental benefits.
This is the opinion of Babette Decker, who stated that insulation in the loft could cut energy wastage and help homeowners save about £150 a year on their utility bills.
Writing in the Journal, she noted that various materials can be used in loft insulation.
She recommended sheep's wool, plastic bottles and recycled newspapers, as these are greener and more sustainable than alternatives such as mineral wool.
However, Ms Decker warned that if people do go for the latter option, they should wear protective gear such as goggles and gloves if they are handling the material, as it can be an irritant to the eyes and skin.
She added that homeowners could reap the greatest rewards if they refurbish their homes with proper insulation sooner rather than later.
"Act now before the weather gets really cold," Ms Decker commented.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, loft insulation will soon pay for itself after a short period, as the long-term savings will outweigh the initial cost of installation.
By Steven Jones