Insulation and draughtproofing

The short answer

Loft insulation and draughtproofing give the best return in most Scottish homes. Cavity wall insulation is only relevant to post-1930s construction; most pre-1919 Edinburgh property has solid walls and needs internal or external insulation, which must be designed carefully to avoid trapping moisture. Suspended timber floors in period property are a frequently overlooked source of heat loss.

What the work involves

Topping up loft insulation to current depth, insulating suspended floors between joists, draughtproofing windows, doors, letterboxes and floorboards, and where appropriate internal wall insulation using breathable materials in traditional buildings.

Rules and consents in Scotland

Most insulation work needs no warrant, but internal or external wall insulation can require building standards approval and, on a listed building or in a conservation area, consent. Ventilation must be maintained — insulating without ventilation causes condensation.

What commonly goes wrong

Sealing a solid-wall flat airtight without controlled ventilation, and using impermeable insulation against solid stone, both of which cause condensation within the fabric.

What it usually costs

Indicative ranges only, to help you judge a quote. They are not an estimate for your property — only the business doing the work can give you that.

• Draughtproofing is the lowest-cost measure with the fastest payback.
• Loft top-up is inexpensive and often available through funded schemes.
• Suspended floor insulation is a moderate cost and disruptive, so it is best done alongside floor repairs.
• Internal wall insulation is the most expensive option and reduces room size slightly.

What to do, in order

1. 1Check current loft depth before assuming it is adequate.
2. 2Draughtproof windows, doors and floorboards first.
3. 3Keep and maintain deliberate ventilation — airbricks, trickle vents, extract fans.
4. 4For solid walls, use breathable materials and take advice on the build-up.
5. 5Check eligibility for Scottish funding and advice schemes before committing.
6. 6Insulate pipework and the loft hatch, which are commonly missed.

Local detail for the Lothians

• Most pre-1919 Edinburgh tenement and townhouse stock is solid stone, so cavity insulation is not an option and breathable internal solutions are needed.
• Top-floor tenement flats lose most heat through the roof space, which is often common property shared with neighbours.
• Post-war housing across West Lothian and Edinburgh's suburbs frequently does have cavities suitable for conventional insulation.
• Home Energy Scotland provides free impartial advice and can point to available funding across the Lothians.

When you need a professional

An insulation installer registered with a recognised scheme; a surveyor or building physicist for internal wall insulation in a traditional building.

Common questions

Can Edinburgh tenements have cavity wall insulation?

Generally no — pre-1919 stone tenements have solid walls, so internal insulation and draughtproofing are the realistic options.

Will insulating cause damp?

It can if ventilation is reduced or impermeable materials are used on a traditional wall, which is why specification matters.

Related pages

• Condensation and mould

  Ventilation, heating patterns and cold spots — the most common damp complaint.

• Window repairs

  Sash and case overhaul, draughtproofing, and repairs to modern double glazing.

• Ventilation and airbricks

  Extract fans, trickle vents, airbricks and underfloor ventilation.