Is my roof sufficiently insulated?
Generally speaking, most houses built or improved before the 1990s have poor roof insulation, whereas houses built or improved after that time usually have better insulation. But when is ‘poor’ or ‘better’ good enough? Let’s take a look at the current standard.
According to the ‘Flemish roof insulation standard’, all roofs of existing owner-occupied homes and rental homes connected to the grid before 1 January 2006 must be insulated. This rule also applies to studio and other apartments. Rooms and roofs covering less than two square metres are exempt.
The roof insulation must have an R value (thermal resistance coefficient) of at least 0.75 m2K/W. Depending on the insulation material used, this corresponds to approximately three to four centimetres of insulation. An insulated attic floor in an unheated, unoccupied attic is considered as an insulated roof.
Although this is the minimum standard for guaranteeing housing quality, it would be even better to take it a step further. Depending on the insulation material used and any gaps, a thickness of at least 10 to 22 centimetres is recommended and will last well into the future. This will also have a positive impact on the environment, your finances, your living conditions and the value of your home.
This article was published on 12-10-2023. Unless expressly provided otherwise, all information you consult or obtain here is entirely without obligation and for information purposes only. The information applies exclusively to Flanders.