Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about underfloor insulation? You’re not alone. Below, we’ve answered the most common ones homeowners ask us before installing underfloor insulation in period homes, from cost and disruption to the expected benefits.
Still not sure? Get in touch and we’ll help you find the best solution for your home.
Do I need underfloor insulation?
If you feel cold air through your floorboards, or live in a Victorian or Edwardian house, you are likely to benefit. The most effective, least disruptive fix is breathable underfloor insulation that blocks draughts, protects timber, and preserves the ventilation airgap. Retrovive can often insulate a whole room in a day, with minimal disruption and no need for redecoration.
Read more: The Ultimate Guide to Period Home Underfloor Insulation
What is underfloor insulation and how does it work?
Underfloor insulation stops cold draughts rising from beneath suspended timber floors and keeps heat in the house. We install breathable insulation between floor joists, keeping warmth in and moisture balanced.
Do you install from above or below the floor?
The Retrovive system is designed to be installed from above. This means that, unlike other systems, we can insulate floors with insufficient crawl space below. Firstly we fit a ‘breathable’ membrane below the floor joists at the right depth to hold the insulation and then we fill between the joists with our high-performance cellulose-fibre insulation. This is blown in under pressure to pack it tightly into all the corners.
Is it suitable for old or period homes?
Yes, the Retrovive system is designed specifically for traditional timber floors. These are known as 'suspended floors' because the floorboards are supported on timber joists above a void. This void is ventilated by outdoor air entering through air bricks.
Read more: Why Are Traditional Homes So Cold (and What Can I Do About Cold London Houses?)
Is underfloor insulation suitable for all types of homes?
Underfloor insulation is particularly effective for period homes with suspended timber floors. Retrovive specialises in providing solutions tailored to traditionally-built homes, ensuring modern levels of comfort and energy efficiency.
Read more: What insulation is best for Victorian and Edwardian houses?
Can underfloor insulation cause damp, or affect breathability?
No. Done correctly, it reduces draughts without trapping moisture. We insulate between joists with a cellulose material and support it on a breathable membrane set at the right depth. This keeps the ventilation void intact and allows timber to dry naturally.
Damp problems usually come from blocked air bricks, non-breathable foams, or covering up ventilation. We check ventilation, address obvious moisture risks and keep an airgap where required so floors stay warm and healthy.
Read more: Breathable membranes and moisture control
Is underfloor insulation compatible with underfloor heating?
Yes - however, in most retrofit cases, underfloor heating adds unnecessary complexity and cost and raises floor levels with little added benefit. Once a good layer of insulation is installed under the floor, it will naturally feel warmer - with much less heat needed to make the whole room warm and comfortable.
What materials are used in Retrovive's underfloor insulation?
Retrovive uses natureplus® certified insulation made from recycled materials that are carbon-negative. The material we use is cellulose fibre, made from recycled newspaper and treated with salts to make it fire-resistant and deter pests. This ensures sustainability and high performance in improving home energy efficiency.
Read more: Why Retrovive is the future of sustainable underfloor insulation
What is the environmental impact of Retrovive's insulation materials?
Our insulation material, Warmcel®, has been awarded the prestigious NaturePlus® certificate, confirming it as one of the most sustainable insulation options available today. It’s actually carbon-negative, meaning it locks away more carbon than is released during its manufacture.
Read more: Why Retrovive is the future of sustainable underfloor insulation