The Ultimate Guide to Suspended Timber Floor Insulation in Ireland
Thinking About Insulating Your Floors in Ireland? Forté Flooring Has You Covered!
Welcome to Forté Flooring’s expert guide on Suspended Timber Floor Insulation. If you're considering insulating your floors but are unsure about costs, materials, or installation, you’ve come to the right place.
This guide covers everything you need to know, from the benefits of floor insulation to cost breakdowns, insulation options, installation process, joist repairs, waste disposal, and whether you need to vacate your home during the work.
Our Full Guide To Suspended Floor Insulation-https://www.forteflooring.ie/_files/ugd/abcf8b_8a107602ccc84914b50dd0a1bfde1bff.pdf?index=true
Video Snapshot-https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hS2piBDaJCM
What is Suspended Timber Floor Insulation?
Suspended timber floor insulation involves placing insulation material between the floor joists and sealing it with a vapor control layer, a breathable airtight membrane, and a plywood or OSB subfloor.
This method prevents heat loss, drafts, and moisture buildup, significantly improving energy efficiency and indoor comfort. It is particularly relevant in period homes such as Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian properties, where floors were originally built with ventilation gaps that now cause cold air infiltration.
Why Should You Insulate Suspended Timber Floors?
1. Improved Thermal Efficiency
Prevents cold air from rising through the floor.
Helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing reliance on heating.
2. Lower Energy Bills
An insulated floor can reduce energy consumption by up to 15–20%.
Less heat is lost through the floor, leading to significant savings on heating costs.
3. Eliminates Drafts
Traditional suspended timber floors often leak cold air through gaps.
Proper insulation creates a sealed and comfortable environment.
4. Enhanced Soundproofing
Reduces noise from footsteps, furniture movement, and adjacent rooms.
Especially beneficial in multi-story homes or where soundproofing is a priority.
5. Increases Property Value
A well-insulated home is more energy-efficient and attractive to buyers.
Prospective homeowners view insulated floors as a modern upgrade.
6. Prevents Moisture and Condensation Issues
Insulation and a vapour barrier protect floor joists from dampness.
Prevents mold and rot, extending the lifespan of the floor structure.
Average Cost of Floor Insulation in Ireland
The cost of floor insulation depends on the type of insulation, subfloor materials, and installation requirements.
Item | Cost (Per sqm) |
Rock Wool Insulation | €14.50 |
Rigid Insulation Boards | €14.50 |
Sheep’s Wool Insulation | €10–€12 |
Earth Wool Insulation | €7.50 |
Hardfaced Plywood Subfloor | €15–€18 |
OSB Subfloor | €9–€14 |
Labour & Installation | €30–€50 |
Total for 85 sqm Floor | €4,000–€6,000+ |
Labor costs vary depending on:
Extent of joist work required.
Difficulty in accessing the underfloor void.
Type of insulation material selected.
Types of Floor Insulation for Suspended Timber Floors
Choosing the right insulation material is essential for maximizing efficiency and durability.
1. Rock Wool Insulation (€14.50 per sqm)
Excellent thermal and acoustic performance
Easy to install between evenly spaced joists
Fire-resistant and highly durable
2. Rigid Insulation Boards (€14.50 per sqm)
High thermal efficiency
More difficult to install in older homes with uneven joists
Best suited for properties with straight, uniform joist spacing
3. Sheep’s Wool Insulation (€10–€12 per sqm)
Sustainable and eco-friendly
Naturally breathable, reducing moisture buildup
Great for traditional homes where a natural approach is preferred
4. Earth Wool Insulation (€7.50 per sqm)
Lightweight and cost-effective
Ideal for budget-conscious homeowners
Installation Process: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Preparation & Floorboard Removal
Existing floor coverings (e.g., carpet, laminate, or old floorboards) are removed.
Floorboards are assessed for damage, warping, or rot.
Step 2: Joist Inspection & Repairs
Damaged joists are replaced or reinforced.
Joists are treated with a preservative to prevent rot and insects.
Uneven joists are leveled for subfloor installation.
Step 3: Installing the Insulation System
A vapour control layer is installed between joists.
Insulation material (Rock Wool, Rigid Foam, etc.) is fitted snugly between joists.
A breathable airtight membrane is added to prevent drafts while allowing airflow.
Step 4: Installing the Subfloor
A new plywood or OSB subfloor is fixed over the insulation to create a solid base for final flooring.
Options include:
Hard-faced Plywood (€15–€18 per sqm) – Best for high-traffic areas.
OSB (€9–€14 per sqm) – Cost-effective and moisture-resistant.
Step 5: Finishing the Floor
Instead of reinstalling old floorboards, a new engineered or laminate floor is installed for better performance and aesthetics.
How Long Does the Process Take?
Stage | Time (Per sqm) |
Floor Preparation | 15-30 min |
Joist Repairs (if needed) | 20–30 min |
Insulation Installation | 15–20 min |
Subfloor Installation | 10–15 min |
Final Flooring | 15–20 min |
Total Per 10 sqm | 6-10 hours |
For an 85 sqm area, expect 4–7 working days, depending on the complexity.
Additional Considerations
Ventilation Maintenance
Suspended floors need proper ventilation to prevent condensation.
Existing air vents are inspected and upgraded if necessary.
Waste Disposal
Old materials, floorboards, and construction debris are responsibly removed.
Do Clients Need to Leave the Property?
For small projects, homeowners can remain in the house.
For large-scale jobs, it may be easier to vacate for 1–2 days to avoid disruption.
Why Choose Forté Flooring?
Award-Winning Craftsmanship – Our team is experienced in high-end flooring and insulation.
Premium Materials – We use only the best insulation and flooring materials.
Tailored Solutions – Each project is customized to suit your home and budget.
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