Why Skimping on Insulation Is One of the Biggest Renovation Mistakes Homeowners Make
When planning a home renovation, it's natural to focus on the visible results — bathrooms, finishes, lighting, and layout.
But one of the most important elements of any renovation is completely hidden once the job is finished.
Insulation.
It's not exciting, but it has a huge impact on comfort, energy efficiency, and the long-term success of a renovation.
Insulation Is Best Done During Renovation — Not After
A renovation is often the only realistic opportunity to improve insulation properly.
Once walls and ceilings are closed:
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Upgrading insulation becomes disruptive and expensive
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Finished surfaces may need to be removed again
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Results are often compromised
Doing it right at renovation stage saves money, time, and frustration later.
📸 Real Renovation Example: Insulation Installed Before Finishes
This stage of the build is critical. Proper insulation must be fitted neatly and continuously before any plastering or decorative finishes begin. Gaps, compression, or poor detailing at this stage can reduce performance significantly.
Comfort Starts Behind the Walls
A renovated home should feel warm, solid, and comfortable — not just look good.
Poor insulation often leads to:
Cold spots and uneven room temperatures
Drafts, especially in bathrooms and stairwells
Condensation on walls and ceilings
Higher heating bills year after year
Good insulation creates:
Consistent warmth throughout the home
Improved sound insulation between rooms
A more solid, high-quality feel once complete
No amount of high-end finishes can compensate for a home that's uncomfortable to live in.
Bathrooms & Wet Areas Need Extra Attention
Bathrooms are one of the most common places where insulation is overlooked.
Without proper insulation:
Cold wall surfaces attract condensation
Moisture can build up behind finished walls
Long-term issues may develop unseen
When renovating bathrooms, insulation should be considered as essential as waterproofing and ventilation.
Insulation Helps Protect Your Finishes
High-quality finishes — decorative plaster, polished plaster, microcement — perform best in a stable environment.
Good insulation helps:
Reduce temperature fluctuations
Control moisture movement
Protect finishes from long-term stress
In other words, insulation helps protect the investment you're making in the visible parts of your renovation.
Energy Efficiency & Long-Term Value
Beyond comfort, insulation:
Improves energy efficiency
Reduces heating costs
Enhances your home's overall value
Positively affects BER ratings
Buyers are increasingly aware of energy performance — even in older, renovated homes.
Our Approach to Renovations
During renovation projects, we encourage homeowners to think beyond what they'll see on completion day.
Taking the time to get insulation right:
Improves comfort
Protects finishes
Reduces long-term costs
Results in a better-quality renovation overall
It's one of the decisions homeowners are most grateful for once they've lived in the space.
Planning a Home or Bathroom Renovation?
If you're planning a renovation, early decisions make the biggest difference.
📩 Get in touch to discuss your renovation project and ensure the work behind the walls is done right — before the final finishes go on.