Insulation problem and small air gap - please help Information, help, tips and advice on cavity walls, ceilings and lofts etc....

[alldalights]

I have a loft extension with a pitched roof. The builder has been really good to date, but i noticed when installing the insulation board, he's not left 2 inches as a void before the roofing felt (it's more like 2 cms). This is a concern for a couple of reasons. Is this realistically enough of a gap to allow the air to move freely (there are vents in the bottom between the joist ends)?

Even if this is ok...... there is now a 50mm gap between the front side of the 100mm insulation and the front of the joists. I know his plan is to use a thinner Kingspan style insulation (i think 25mm) and lay that in the other direction.

Option 1 - remove all the insulation and bring it forward by 50mm to allow the correct gap at the back to ventilate, plus remove the gap so it is inline with the joists at the front. I'm not sure this is possible as he's fitted them really tightly and any gaps expanding foam filled. Accepting this, the only real concern would be if the 2cms ventilation would be enough. (As I guess I can buy more 50mm rigid board and then have 150 cm total)

Option 2 - except the stuff that's been put in has to stay. So it's a case of fitting either rotwool to fill the gap or 50mm board. Then fit the 25mm board at 90 deg, then plasterboard etc etc.

Option 3 - Except the existing stuff has to stay, fit the 25mm board... and hope the 50mm airgap doesn't create a condensation problem?

Any help gratefully received!!

Cheers
Stelrad.

[stoneyboy]

Hi alldalights
Assuming breathable slaters felt has been fitted there should not be any problems. Fill the inside gap with more insulation, put a layer of insulation with foil over the whole inside - do tape the joins to form an effective DPM.
Regards S

[alldalights]

Thanks S,
Many thanks for your reply. Yes he’s fitted a branded breathable membrane, so all good.

Feeling reassured so thanks again!

[B4Less]

Hi, In real terms no this is not ok. There is a requirement to have a 50mm gap between your insulation and your roof covering. This is regulation. However, how much of a difference it really makes between 50mm and 25mm is debatable. Ultimately the main reason behind the 50mm airflow is to ensure there is no blockage or where insulation could bridge that gap and before you know it there is no gap. So if I was you I would first make sure there is a full 25mm airflow all the way from wallplate to ridge to wallplate with ridge vents and soffit vents. If this is clear with no areas where air cannot flow I would make do with what I have. Now don't forget regulations state 50mm so this is your choice.