Why Do We Insulate Our Houses?

It might seem like a no-brainer—of course we insulate to keep our houses warm, right? But there’s actually a lot more going on behind those cosy walls. Understanding why we insulate can help you make better decisions about materials, methods, and the long-term performance of your home.

If you’d rather hear Andy and Chris talk through the ideas in this article, you can watch Episode 2 of Can I Just Ask? below. 👇

It Starts with Energy

Let’s start with the obvious: energy efficiency. Insulation slows the transfer of heat through walls, roofs, and floors. That means in winter, heat stays inside where you want it; in summer, it helps keep the heat out. The result? Lower energy bills, less reliance on heating and cooling systems, and a big step towards reducing your home’s carbon footprint.

But while energy savings are the headline act, they’re far from the whole story.

Creating a Comfortable Living Space

We spend a huge portion of our lives indoors—especially in colder or wetter climates. Insulation plays a key role in making those spaces feel comfortable. It’s not just about temperature. Insulated homes tend to have more stable indoor climates overall, with fewer cold drafts or overly hot spots.

Plus, there’s something called radiant temperature. It’s how warm or cold a room feels based on the temperature of the surfaces around you, like walls and windows. When walls are well insulated, they don’t suck the warmth out of the room or radiate cold back at you—so the space simply feels better.

Moisture Matters

Modern life produces a lot of indoor moisture: cooking, bathing, laundry, even breathing. In older buildings especially, that moisture can become a problem if it isn’t properly managed.

Here’s where insulation helps in a less obvious way. Cold internal walls are prime spots for condensation, which can lead to mould, mildew, and poor air quality. When you insulate a wall, you raise its internal surface temperature, which makes condensation far less likely. Pair that with good ventilation, and you’re well on your way to a healthier indoor environment.

A Healthier Home

Mould and damp aren’t just unsightly—they can trigger allergies, asthma, and other respiratory problems. By insulating properly, you’re reducing the risk of cold, damp surfaces where mould can take hold. That makes for a safer, more comfortable space for everyone living there.

More Than Just Warmth

Insulation does more than just trap heat. It protects your home from moisture, supports your health, and improves everyday comfort. It’s a foundation for energy-efficient design, but also for building homes that feel good to live in.

Whether you’re renovating, retrofitting, or starting from scratch, understanding why insulation matters is the first step to doing it right.

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Fibres Academy

Designed for architects, builders and self-builders, the courses cover different scenarios and explain how to specify, source and use wood fibre effectively.