You can install IWI (internal wall insulation) and RIR (Room In Roof) insulation in inhabited properties, but it poses a few main challenges:
- Furniture movement
- Decoration
- Condensation and ventilation
- Dust
- Fixtures and fittings
- Space
Upgrading existing homes to meet modern energy efficiency standards is crucial for tackling climate change, reducing energy bills, and creating more comfortable living environments. However, insulating inhabited properties comes with its own unique set of challenges—especially when it comes to internal wall insulation and room-in-roof insulation. Housing associations and local authorities working on these projects need to consider these challenges to ensure successful outcomes that work for residents. Here, we explore some of the key challenges we have encountered when installing internal wall insulation and room-in-roof insulation in occupied homes—and how to try to prevent disruption to both the residents and the installation teams.
1. Moving Furniture: The Space Conundrum
One of the most immediate challenges in installing internal wall insulation is the need to move bulky furniture away from walls to be insulated. Large items such as wardrobes, beds, or bookcases need to be relocated, which is often easier said than done in a fully occupied home – particularly when installation projects happen over multiple days. Sometimes, insulation work on a narrow loft or door can reduce the width of an aperture—making it difficult to get large furniture back into the room once the insulation is complete. These kinds of logistics require thoughtful planning, and teams should work closely with residents to minimise disruption while ensuring the project runs smoothly. This is one of the reasons we like to do an internal survey prior to any work commencing.
2. Preserving Decoration: Balancing Comfort and Sentiment
Homes are full of sentimental elements that contribute to our comfort—decorations, wall art, and murals can be extremely important to residents. For instance, in a recent project, a young autistic resident had a beloved unicorn mural painted on her wall. The addition of internal insulation meant that this cherished mural would be covered up—something that could have been very distressing. In cases like these, taking time to speak with residents and exploring alternatives, such as recreating murals or helping them preserve memories in other ways, can help maintain trust and minimize distress.
3. Condensation and Ventilation: Keeping Homes Healthy
Internal and room-in-roof insulation can improve energy efficiency, but they also change how moisture behaves in the home. Without proper ventilation, insulating walls and roof spaces can trap moisture, potentially causing issues with dampness and mould. It is crucial to conduct a detailed ventilation survey to ensure that condensation won’t become a problem. Extractor fans may be installed when necessary, but educating residents on keeping these running to maintain proper airflow is also key—as turning off the fans can inadvertently lead to condensation buildup.
4. Dust: Managing the Inevitable
Another unavoidable issue when installing internal wall and room-in-roof insulation is dust. The work generates dust, which can be a significant concern for people living in the home. Measures such as laying down dust sheets and isolating work to one room at a time can help minimise the impact, but it is important to communicate openly with residents and ensure they know what to expect before work begins. This can make a challenging situation more manageable. We find that expectation management is much more productive before rather than after (or during).
5. Fixings and Fittings: Attention to Detail
Internal wall and room-in-roof insulation affect more than just the surfaces being insulated. Electrical fixtures like plug sockets and light switches need to be extended, and other wall-mounted elements—such as TV brackets, artwork, coving, or dado rails—need to be considered. Each property has its own unique setup, and while online tools like Google Maps are helpful for understanding the size, orientation, and shape of a home, nothing can replace a thorough in-person survey – particularly for IWI and RIR. Proper surveys by experienced teams are essential before any work starts because every home and every set of residents is different. A detailed assessment ensures that the specific needs and sensitivities of each household are addressed.
6. Lack of Space: A Practical Challenge
Finally, space is often at a premium in inhabited properties, especially in smaller homes. Finding enough room to move furniture away from the walls or roof areas being insulated can be a significant challenge, and it often requires creativity and collaboration with the residents. Phasing the work carefully and keeping residents informed at every step can help ensure that they have the space needed to continue their daily activities during the installation process.
Putting Residents First
Installing internal wall and room-in-roof insulation in inhabited properties isn’t just about improving energy efficiency — it’s about ensuring residents feel comfortable and supported throughout the process. Every home and resident is unique, so a one-size-fits-all approach simply won’t work. By conducting detailed surveys, planning carefully, and maintaining open communication, housing associations and installation teams can manage these projects successfully, benefiting both residents and the environment.
To discuss your insulation project with our experienced room in roof insulation contractors, request a free consultation or get in touch through our contact page today.
