Retrofit Insulation NZ

As specialist retrofit insulation installers, the jobs we do require us to retrofit insulation into existing houses. 

Due to poor insulation requirements prior to 2008, retrofit insulation jobs are carried out on houses built this century through to older houses that have stood the test of time but are now too cold and draughty for modern lifestyles, or in cases where the initial insulation type used was not high quality. With a growing range of insulation materials and installation methods, we can help you choose the best retrofit insulation product to keep you comfortable all year round, add value to your home and offer great long term benefits. 

It is important to remember that retrofit insulation can sometimes be complex and often involves more complex work than simply placing insulation into walls, ceilings or subfloor cavities. There are complex NZ Standards, NZS4246-2016, that retrofit insulation must meet when it is installed into an existing house.

Houses must be assessed on a case-by-case basis to determine if they are suitable for retrofit insulation and if the proposed methods and materials are appropriate. When considering retrofit insulation for your property we recommend consulting an insulation specialist to discuss the best way to go about this. 

Most of our insulation types are suitable for retrofit insulation projects, and as with any other job, we will assess your requirements and make a recommendation on the best retrofit insulation to suit your particular project.

Types of Retrofit Insulation for Existing Homes

Homes with poor or no insulation present an opportunity for big improvements in their thermal performance by retrofitting insulation. Below are some of the common examples of retrofit insulation types.

Retrofitting Ceiling Insulation

Heat rises, which means an uninsulated or poorly insulated ceiling is the biggest source of heat loss in most homes. Ceiling insulation is usually the easiest and most cost-effective thermal upgrade you can make. In homes with accessible roof cavities, we lay bulk insulation like glasswool or polyester batts across the ceiling joists, ensuring full coverage without gaps. We always check for existing electrical wiring, downlights, and ventilation requirements to ensure the installation meets safety standards and performs as expected.

Retrofitting Floor Insulation

For homes with adequate crawl space, this is one of the most practical ways to reduce heat loss and improve comfort. Underfloor insulation is installed from beneath the house and secured to prevent sagging.

Retrofitting Wall Insulation

Wall insulation in existing homes is more challenging because the cavities are already enclosed behind linings and cladding. For most retrofit situations, wall insulation is only practical when renovations are already underway, such as replacing interior linings or recladding the exterior. During these projects, we install bulk insulation batts into the exposed wall cavities before they're closed up again. This approach ensures proper fitting, avoids compression, and allows us to address any moisture or ventilation issues at the same time. If you're planning renovations, it's the ideal opportunity to upgrade your wall insulation.