Spray Foam Insulation vs Fibreglass: Which One Actually Works Better for Your Westminster Home?
If you’re thinking about improving the comfort and energy savings of your home or flat in Westminster, insulation is a smart place to start. Yet with so many options about, it’s easy to feel lost. Two of the most common choices are spray foam insulation (also called spray polyurethane foam or SPF insulation) and traditional fibreglass rolls. You might be wondering, “Which one actually works better?” Let’s break it down so you have all the facts before making a decision. We’ll look at their differences, how much they cost in the London area, and which might be best for you, whether you live in a period town house, a modern build, or are managing a business property.
What Is Spray Foam and How Does It Differ from Fibreglass?
To keep things simple, spray foam insulation is a liquid foam that experts spray onto roofs, walls, or loft spaces. It quickly expands into a solid, filling any holes or gaps. There are two main types: open-cell and closed-cell. Closed-cell spray foam is denser, more rigid, and works better at stopping heat escape, while open-cell is softer and more flexible.
On the other hand, fibreglass insulation comes in fluffy rolls or batts, made from tiny glass fibres. This is what most people picture as ‘traditional’ insulation, often seen in lofts or behind walls. It’s been popular for decades in homes across Westminster, Chelsea, and even further afield in places like Manchester and Leeds.
Comparing Effectiveness: Warmth, Comfort, and Noise
One of the biggest reasons people invest in insulation is to keep their homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Here’s how spray foam and fibreglass stack up:
| Type | Heat Blocking | Stops Draughts? | Sound Reduction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spray Foam | Excellent (especially closed-cell) | Yes, fills all gaps | Very Good |
| Fibreglass | Good | No, gaps still possible | Moderate |
Because it fully seals up cracks, spray foam doesn’t just stop heat from escaping; it also blocks draughts and outside noise. This is very handy if you live near busy roads in places like Shoreditch or Camden. Fibreglass can still let air through small gaps, which means it’s a bit less snug and might let in cold spots or traffic sounds.
Spray Foam Insulation Cost vs Fibreglass: What’s the Real Price?
Right, so how much will it actually set you back? In Westminster and across central London, spray foam insulation costs more upfront. You might expect to pay somewhere between £40 – £70 per square metre for closed-cell spray foam, depending on how thick you want it and how difficult your loft or wall is to access. Open-cell spray foam is usually a bit cheaper.
In comparison, fibreglass insulation can often be fitted for as little as £10 – £20 per square metre. It’s widely available in DIY shops from Bristol to Sunderland, and you can sometimes put it in yourself if you’re handy (just wear gloves and a mask).
- Spray Foam: Higher upfront cost, but may save more on energy bills over time.
- Fibreglass: Cheaper now, but might not last as long or work as well at stopping draughts or damp.
Is Spray Foam Insulation Worth It?
So, is spray foam insulation worth it for homes and businesses in Westminster, Camden, Kensington, and nearby? That depends on your needs and budget.
- If you want the very best at blocking out the cold, reducing energy bills, and keeping things calm and quiet, spray foam is often the winner. It’s also great at stopping moisture (good for older London properties with damp issues).
- If you’re on a tight budget or only staying in your home for a few years, fibreglass might do the trick for now. It’s quick, easy, and still better than having no insulation at all.
In summary, spray foam offers better performance and long-term savings, but fibreglass is budget-friendly and easy to install. Both will make your home cosier than before, and choosing the right one comes down to what matters most to you. Still unsure? You can always compare with other areas, like comparing how prices fare in Leeds, Leicester or even the coast at Brighton and Hove, to see what’s typical for your property type.
If you’d like help working out what works best for your home or business in Westminster or nearby areas such as Chelsea, Camden, or Shoreditch, just get in touch with a local insulation specialist. They’ll have plenty of examples and can give you tailored advice so you get the real benefit of a warmer, cosier home – sorted in no time.