Home insulation has become one of the most talked‑about home improvements in the UK — and for good reason. With rising energy prices, colder winters, and an increasing focus on energy efficiency, more homeowners across Ipswich, Suffolk and North Essex are searching for clear, trustworthy answers about insulation installation.
Below, we break down the most common questions people ask online — and provide expert, easy‑to‑understand answers to help you make the right decision for your home.
1. What type of insulation does my home actually need?
The right insulation depends on your home’s age, construction type and current energy performance.
Most UK homes benefit from a combination of:
- Loft insulation (stops heat escaping through the roof)
- Internal wall insulation (ideal for solid‑wall or cold rooms)
- External wall insulation (improves thermal performance and appearance)
- Floor insulation (eliminates cold floors and draughts)
- Damp‑proofing (protects against moisture, mould and structural damage)
Homes built before the 1990s in areas like Ipswich, Woodbridge, Felixstowe, Stowmarket and Colchester often lack modern insulation standards — meaning they lose heat far faster than newer properties.
2. How much heat am I losing without insulation?
More than most people realise. On average:
- 25% of heat escapes through the roof
- 35% through walls
- 15% through floors
- 10% through windows
- 15% through draughts and gaps
This is why insulation installation is one of the most effective ways to reduce energy bills — especially in older Suffolk and Essex homes.
3. Does insulation really reduce energy bills?
Yes — and often dramatically.
A properly insulated home can reduce heating costs by 20–40%, depending on the property type.
In areas like Ipswich, Kesgrave, Claydon, Needham Market and Bury St Edmunds, where many homes have suspended floors or solid walls, insulation can make a huge difference to comfort and running costs.
4. What’s the difference between internal and external wall insulation?
Internal Wall Insulation (IWI)
- Installed inside the home
- Ideal for solid‑wall properties
- Great for cold rooms or problem areas
- Minimal disruption to the exterior
External Wall Insulation (EWI)
- Installed on the outside of the property
- Adds a protective, weather‑resistant layer
- Improves appearance and energy efficiency
- Excellent for older or exposed homes
If you live in a coastal area like Felixstowe or Aldeburgh, EWI also protects against salt, wind and moisture.
5. How long does insulation installation take?
Most installations are quicker than people expect:
- Loft insulation: 2–4 hours
- Internal wall insulation: 1–2 days
- External wall insulation: 3–7 days
- Floor insulation: 1 day for most homes
- Damp‑proofing: varies depending on severity
A full home upgrade can often be completed within a week.
6. Will insulation make my home warmer straight away?
Yes — the difference is usually noticeable the same day.
Homeowners often report:
- Warmer rooms
- Fewer draughts
- More stable temperatures
- Reduced heating usage
- Less condensation
This is especially true in older Suffolk villages like Tuddenham, Witnesham, Hintlesham, Brantham and Lavenham.
7. Is insulation worth it for older or period homes?
Absolutely — older homes benefit the most.
Victorian, Edwardian and pre‑war homes in Ipswich, Colchester, Sudbury and surrounding areas often have:
- Solid walls
- Suspended timber floors
- Poor ventilation
- No original insulation
Modern insulation can be installed without damaging character features, and it dramatically improves comfort and efficiency.
8. Does insulation help with damp or mould?
Yes — when installed correctly.
Insulation helps:
- Reduce condensation
- Prevent cold spots
- Improve airflow
- Stabilise indoor temperatures
Combined with professional damp‑proofing, it creates a healthier, more stable home environment.
9. How do I know if my home needs insulation?
Look for these signs:
- Cold rooms or uneven temperatures
- High energy bills
- Draughty floors
- Condensation or mould
- Walls that feel cold to the touch
- A home built before 1990
- Rooms above garages or extensions that feel colder
If you live in Suffolk or North Essex, there’s a high chance your home is under‑insulated.
10. Who installs insulation in Ipswich, Suffolk & North Essex?
KDS Insulation provides:
- Loft insulation installation
- Internal wall insulation
- External wall insulation
- Floor insulation
- External wall coatings
- Damp‑proofing
We cover Ipswich, Kesgrave, Woodbridge, Felixstowe, Stowmarket, Bury St Edmunds, Sudbury, Colchester, Manningtree and all surrounding villages.
Final Thoughts: Insulation Is One of the Best Investments You Can Make in 2026
Whether you want to reduce energy bills, improve comfort, protect your home from damp or increase your EPC rating, insulation installation is one of the most effective upgrades available.
If you’re in Ipswich, Suffolk or North Essex and want expert advice, a free assessment or a tailored quote, KDS Insulation is here to help.
