The property practitioner's guide to ceiling insulation

At Helen Melon Properties, our property practitioners know that there is a need to better understand the characteristics of the homes we market and, in so doing, we are becoming more technically informed. This practice gives such us an edge because we appreciate that knowledge sells homes.

Building an arsenal of information about a residential home is not purely about aesthetics or history but what lies beneath or, in this case, above; ceiling insulation!

To understand the value of this product, especially in the current environment where Eskom load shedding and municipal power prices increases are negatively impacting consumers' pockets, ceiling insulation could save a typical homeowner anywhere between 9-15% annually on utility bills.

"Gone are the days of cheap electricity, air conditioners, under-blanket heaters, oil heaters and the like as primary methods to regulate temperature comfort levels in homes, and not simply because of the financial impacts on their energy consumption, but also because it is legislated." says Kevin Busby, Director of Fibre-Spec, an environmentally conscious ceiling insulation business.

In 2011 the government added the 'XA' suffix to SANS 10400 as part of a greater focus on energy conservation in buildings. Since then, it has been mandatory for all new and pre-2011 renovated and altered residential roof assemblies to achieve an optimal thermal resistance (R-value) that meets specified targets as defined by a climatic zone table.

Most homeowners do not have much knowledge about ceiling insulation and, as a result, can be misled by unscrupulous installers. Particularly when it comes to the compliant thickness of the insulation and materials used. Both must conform with national building standards and be tested in accordance with SABS testing protocols, particularly against fire where a fire rating is applied.

Ceiling Insulation

There are several types of insulative materials used in South Africa, from Loose-Fill Blow, Thermo-Floc and Cellulose Fibre to Rolls or Blankets. The latter of which generically comprises a base of fibreglass or polyester. Costs are calculated per square metre and could be recouped within 3-5 years considering current electricity costs and potential hikes.

This is great for resale, but is it enough to just market the cost savings and the advantages of scientifically proven products that optimise temperatures in the home?

No, property practitioners need to be aware that insulation will most likely become regulated in the future. So, from a resale perspective, the fact that a home has been correctly insulated by a reputable and accredited installer is a benefit and, a significant contributor to the value of a property.

Questions to ask the seller

• What type of roof insulation has been installed: Blow-in or Roll Blanket?
• Has the product been SABS tested?
• What thickness is the insulation?
• Does the thickness conform to the climatic zone?
• What is the R-value of the installation?
• Are there any added chemicals in the product?
• What is the certified fire rating of the insulation material used?