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Replacing old insulation? Start here.

What Irish homeowners ask about insulation retrofits

Many homes across Ireland were insulated 20+ years ago — and now need an upgrade. This page covers what’s involved in removing, topping up or replacing insulation, and how to qualify for grants through SEAI’s schemes.

What’s the difference between retrofit and re-insulation?

Re-insulation means upgrading existing insulation — like topping up an attic or replacing old cavity fill. A retrofit usually involves several coordinated upgrades, including insulation, heating, and ventilation to improve the home’s energy rating.

How do I know if my existing insulation needs to be replaced?

If your attic insulation is patchy, thin or compressed — or your cavity insulation is over 20 years old — it may be underperforming. Signs like cold spots, high bills, or condensation are common indicators.

Can you remove failed cavity insulation?

Yes. We offer cavity wall extraction services to remove old fibre or bead insulation that has settled, slumped, or become damp. After that, we refill the cavity with modern bonded bead systems.

Can I still get a grant if my home was already insulated years ago?

Yes — if your current insulation is no longer performing or doesn't meet today's standards, you may still qualify for SEAI funding to upgrade it. We’ll confirm eligibility during your survey.

Can you top up attic insulation without removing the old layer?

Yes — if the existing layer is dry and undamaged, we can add new layers to bring it up to the required 300mm depth. If it’s mouldy or compressed, we may recommend removal first.

Do I need to replace insulation before getting a heat pump?

Yes — SEAI requires that insulation be upgraded first to make the home heat pump-ready. We’ll assess and upgrade your insulation to meet this requirement.

What if I have spray foam that’s no longer compliant?

We can assess the condition of existing spray foam and advise on safe removal if needed. Some older spray foam installs don’t meet current ventilation or grant standards.

Do you handle the full retrofit or just insulation?

We specialise in insulation but can quote for full home energy upgrades in partnership with grant advisors and BER assessors. We also participate in the One Stop Shop model.

Can I do the upgrade in phases?

Yes — we can start with attic or cavity insulation now and schedule wall insulation, heating or solar later. Grants may vary depending on whether you use the One Stop Shop or apply separately.

How long does a retrofit take?

Simple re-insulation can be done in 1–2 days. Full retrofits involving multiple upgrades may take 5–10 days depending on access and grant paperwork. We’ll confirm a full schedule during your survey.

Still have questions?

We’ll check your home’s insulation, show you what’s working and what needs replacement — and help you plan the right upgrade path with grant support if eligible.

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