What is floating floor insulation?
Floating floor insulation is a method of insulating floors where the insulation material is laid on top of a subfloor (such as a concrete slab) and then covered with a new “floating” floor layer that isn’t fixed with nails or screws. Instead, the weight of the floor and skirting boards holds it in place. This creates a thermal and acoustic barrier without penetrating the insulation material.
How it differs from traditional floor insulation
Unlike traditional floor insulation, such as fitting mineral wool between joists in a suspended timber floor, floating floor insulation is generally applied over solid concrete floors or during major renovations. It is especially useful for retrofits, underfloor heating systems, or when you want to add insulation without disturbing the existing floor structure.
Benefits of floating floor insulation
Thermal efficiency and energy savings
Floors can account for up to 15% of a home’s heat loss. By adding floating floor insulation, homeowners and developers reduce energy waste, making homes warmer and more efficient. This directly lowers heating bills and helps meet energy efficiency targets such as EPC requirements.
Acoustic insulation (soundproofing benefits)
Floating floor systems also provide excellent acoustic benefits. The insulation layer dampens sound transmission between rooms and even between flats, ideal for housing associations, developers, or anyone living in apartments or terraced housing.
Moisture and damp protection
Modern floating floor insulation materials include moisture barriers that protect against damp rising from a concrete slab. This is particularly important in older properties or basements, where damp can cause long-term damage.
Types of floating floor insulation
Acoustic floating floor insulation
Specially designed acoustic boards and rolls are used to reduce airborne and impact noise. These are common in flats, student housing, and office conversions.
Thermal floating floor insulation
Thermal insulation boards and rolls are focused on reducing heat loss and improving comfort, often paired with underfloor heating systems.
Floating floor insulation boards vs rolls
Boards (PIR, XPS, EPS) are rigid, easy to cut to size, and offer high thermal resistance. Rolls (such as mineral wool) are flexible and easier to fit into irregular spaces. Choosing between them depends on the project’s technical and budget requirements.
Floating floor insulation vs traditional insulation methods
Floating floor insulation vs underlay
Standard carpet underlay adds some cushioning and minimal thermal benefit, but it isn’t a substitute for floating floor insulation, which is designed to achieve measurable energy savings and compliance with building regulations.
Floating floor insulation vs rigid insulation
Rigid insulation can also be placed directly beneath screed or flooring. The difference is that a floating floor system doesn’t require the insulation to be mechanically fixed; it’s held in place by the floor above, making it quicker and less disruptive to install.
Which is better for your home?
If you have a solid floor slab and are planning renovations, floating floor insulation is usually the most practical choice. For suspended timber floors, traditional between-joist methods remain the standard.
How to install floating floor insulation
Tools and materials required
- Insulation boards or rolls (PIR, XPS, EPS, or mineral wool).
- Vapour control layer (for damp protection).
- Utility knife or saw.
- Tape measure and sealing tape.
- Floating floor panels (chipboard, engineered wood, or laminate).
Step-by-step installation guide
- Prepare the subfloor (clean, level, and dry).
- Lay down a vapour control membrane if required.
- Cut and fit insulation boards or rolls snugly with no gaps.
- Seal joints with tape to prevent air leakage.
- Lay floating floor panels on top, interlocking as you go.
DIY vs professional installation
While handy homeowners can attempt DIY, professional installation ensures compliance with building regulations and avoids common issues such as uneven floors or damp problems.
Best floating floor insulation materials
Mineral wool
Affordable, flexible, and excellent for both thermal and acoustic performance. Eco-friendly options like sheep’s wool are also available.
PIR and XPS boards
High-performance rigid boards with excellent thermal resistance are often used in modern renovations and new builds.
Composite and eco-friendly options
Recycled fibreboards, hemp, and cork composites provide sustainable alternatives that appeal to architects, specifiers, and eco-conscious homeowners.
Cost of floating floor insulation
Average price per m²
Typical costs with professional installation range between £30 and £70 per m², depending on material choice and thickness., especially if levelling or damp proofing is needed.
Long-term savings on energy bills
Reduced heating bills offset the upfront cost. Over the course of 10 to 15 years, savings often outweigh the initial investment, especially when combined with other measures such as double glazing or heat pumps.
Where to buy floating floor insulation
Online retailers and hardware stores
Floating floor insulation can be purchased from major DIY retailers, specialist insulation suppliers, and online platforms. For installation and tailored advice, EcoInsulation.co.uk offers supply and fit services across the UK, ensuring compliance with building standards.
Floating floor insulation FAQs
How thick should it be?
Most installations use insulation boards between 25 and 100mm thick, depending on the required U-value and available floor height.
Can floating floor insulation reduce noise between flats?
Acoustic floating floor systems are widely used to meet building regulations for impact and airborne sound reduction in multi-occupancy housing.
Is it suitable for underfloor heating?
Insulation below underfloor heating ensures the heat is directed upwards into the room, maximising system efficiency and making it ideal for underfloor heating.
Is floating floor insulation worth it?
For homeowners, builders, and developers, floating floor insulation offers long-term energy savings, improved comfort, and compliance with modern building regulations. While it requires an upfront investment, the benefits in reduced heat loss, noise reduction, and property value make it an excellent choice for most renovation and new build projects.