If you’re planning to use wood fibre insulation or other natural materials in your build or renovation, you might be wondering whether you need an approved installer. The short answer? Not necessarily. What really matters is the care and attention brought to the job, and that’s something any committed DIYer or tradesperson can deliver.
Find out more by watching episode 7 of Can I Just Ask? below.👇
It’s About Attitude, Not Accreditation
Many companies offer approved installer schemes or training programmes for their products, and some of these are well worth doing. But when it comes to natural building materials like wood fibre insulation, lime plasters, or airtightness membranes, formal approval isn’t the be-all and end-all.
In fact, some of the highest quality installations we see aren’t done by people with certificates. They’re done by people who care — who take the time to learn, to follow guidance, and to get the details right.
That’s the key: willingness to learn and a commitment to doing things properly.
Quality Over Quantity
A good installation isn’t necessarily about piling on more insulation. We’d much rather see 30mm of wood fibre applied to a high standard than 100mm installed sloppily. A well-detailed build will perform better, last longer, and avoid the issues that can come from poor workmanship — like thermal bridging, moisture problems, or failed airtightness.
We’ve seen complete novices, including homeowners who’ve never picked up a trowel before, deliver beautiful, high-performing projects. If you’ve got a practical mindset and access to the right information, there’s no reason you can’t do the same.
Skills You Already Have
One of the biggest myths about natural materials is that they require exotic techniques or specialist skills. But in reality, most of the methods are familiar. You might be using lime plaster instead of gypsum, but you still mix it with water and apply it with a trowel. Wood fibre boards cut and fix just like timber. Membranes are taped and detailed in ways many builders already understand from conventional airtightness and membrane products.
If you’ve ever done basic carpentry, plastering, or roofing work, you’re more than halfway there.
Help Is at Hand
Of course, learning is still essential — but it doesn’t have to mean a formal course. The Fibres Academy platform was built to make this kind of information freely accessible. Our goal is to give anyone, regardless of background, the confidence to work with natural materials and get great results.
That said, for more complex systems (like Natureplus-certified installations), formal training may be advisable — especially where warranties or performance guarantees are involved.
The Bottom Line
So, do you need an approved installer? Not always. What you do need is curiosity, patience, and the drive to get it right.
With good resources, some basic tools, and the right mindset, high-quality natural insulation work is well within reach — whether you’re a seasoned builder or a hands-on homeowner.