Insulating Roofs with Naturheld Wood Fibre
Insulating Roofs
- Excellent thermal insulation properties
- Reduces summertime overheating through lightweight roof – high thermal mass
- Vapour-open, hygroscopic and capillary-active insulation so water vapour can pass through the insulation
- Enhances internal air quality and comfort
- Significantly improves acoustic insulation through roof
- Thermal bridging eliminated if Naturheld 220/180/140 is laid over or under rafters
- Carbon-negative and natural, sustainable insulation – safe to handle
Naturheld Roof Insulation Solutions
External Roof Insulation
Internal Roof Insulation
Insulating Roofs with Naturheld Wood Fibre
External Roof Insulation
A roof can be insulated at rafter level if the roof space is to be lived in such as with converted lofts, vaulted ceilings and dormer bungalows. The most effective method is to insulate the roof externally. This involves laying Naturheld 220/180/140 wood fibre sarking boards above the rafters and placing Naturheld Flex flexible insulation between the rafters. This build-up eliminates thermal bridging through the rafters, significantly improving the U-value of the roof. Known as a warm roof, this approach is recommended for new roofs or during roof renovations when tiles are being replaced. With external roof insulation, the rafters can be fully-filled with insulation, as the ventilation space will be above the wood fibre sarking board, between vertical counter-battens.
Naturheld wood fibre insulation adds substantial thermal mass to the roof, helping regulate internal temperatures during summer by storing excess heat for up to 10-12 hours. Additionally, the high density of wood fibre significantly enhances acoustic insulation. Wood fibre also buffers moisture, maintaining optimal relative humidity levels, resulting in a healthier and more comfortable home or workplace environment.
Internal Roof Insulation
For existing roofs where tiles don’t need to be removed, insulation can be installed from the inside. However, it’s crucial to maintain a minimum 45mm ventilated cavity space to allow water vapour to evaporate through the eaves, and if possible, through the ridge too. We recommend fitting the water-resistant Naturheld 220 or 180 wood fibre boards between the rafters, or draping the Ampatop Protecta Plus Breather Membrane up, and between the rafters, to protect the Naturheld Flex flexible wood fibre insulation from external moisture. If room height allows, Naturheld 220/180/140 wood fibre boards can be fitted to the underside of the rafters to reduce cold bridging.
This internal roof insulation system will also reduce summertime overheating and will add considerable acoustic insulation to the roof. It will greatly enhance the internal microclimate as wood fibre is a healthy, natural material without any added toxins, and it absorbs and releases excessive humidity so that it can evaporate away. This will greatly reduce the risk of condensation and mould growth on ceilings.