We stock insulation pads and fibre roll and both could help you cut your energy costs. But which is best for your suspended ceiling?
You’ll probably be familiar with the glass fibre roll that, as the name suggests, is a favourite for insulating lofts. You can use loft roll on your suspended ceiling too – it’s certainly an extremely cost-effective way of doing it – and there are other factors that make it a good option:
- Low thermal conductivity, in combination with the ceiling tile itself (which also supports insulation), creates a powerful barrier against heat loss
- Pre-perforated lengths mean it’s easier to fit the roll in manageable sections without awkward cuts
- Low weight – so it won’t damage the ceiling tiles it sits on
If you choose this option remember, when fitting it’s important to keep the wool clear of ceiling lights, hoods and electric cables. As loose fibres can be dislodged, always wear gloves, goggles and/or a protective mask when fitting.
Insulation pads are effectively ceiling tile-sized parcels of mineral wool insulation – loft roll in a bag – but that simple design tweak brings lots of advantages.
Easy to handle: Working in a ceiling void can present challenges if you’re using insulation roll. The void may be small, giving you limited space to work, and the grid hangers can make unrolling the insulation fiddly. There are no such problems with ceiling pads. Lift a tile, place a pad on all the tiles surrounding it. No faff.
Quick to install: Place one pad on one tile. It takes seconds.
Safe installation: You know the traditional challenges of fitting loft insulation. Without gloves, goggles and a mask, there’s always the risk that loose fibres can cause real irritation. There’s none of that with sealed pads.
Safer spaces: It’s not just in the fitting that pads make life easier. With all fibres bagged and sealed, there’s nothing to float around the space below – so it’s the safer option in schools, hospitals, hotels etc
Durable: The polythene cover protects the glass fibre interior. Water leaking from above will gradually soak insulation roll, reducing its effectiveness. It can’t have the same effect on a sealed pack.
You’ll find ceiling pads deliver the same insulating performance as rolls of equal thickness. And as each pad is lightweight it won’t compromise the tile it sits on.
Installation Tips
- Insulation pads are tightly packed for shipping. On delivery, remove them from the box and give them time (48-72 hours) to fully expand before installation.
- Whether roll or pad, don’t squash the insulation in place when fitting – you’ll reduce the performance.
Is Ceiling Insulation Fire Safe?
If you’re placing suspended ceiling insulation in public buildings, you’ll want insulation that matches the fire rating of the materials around it. Find fire rated insulation pads here.
Insulation Roll or Pad? Which is Better for a Suspended Ceiling?
Insulation roll still has an important job to do in insulating between eaves and joists (and even cavities). But whilst you can use it above your suspended ceiling, pads are the better bet for all the above reasons.
What’s more, they’re much cheaper when you buy in bulk from insulationpads.co.uk. Order online or call us on 01253 864902.