Dublin Garden Sheds

Well-built garden sheds prevent bikes from rusting, are excellent for storing tools and lawnmowers, plant pots, WD40 and more. And if you're in the market for an outdoor classroom, a home office pod, a garden room or a kids climbing frame, swing or slide then we have the products for you.

To Insulate Or Not - That is The Question

There are a number of reasons why it is really important to insulate your garden shed. Helping to keep the temperature stable will help to make sure your shed stays free from damp. It also provides a nice cosy space for you to relax in, keeping the temperature seasonal and comfortable. Best of all, insulating your garden shed is quick and simple to do.

Here are a few key tips as to how to insulate your garden shed.

Quick Insulation Facts

Available in a range of different sizes, styles and materials, the way that insulation works remains broadly the same. By keeping air trapped inside the layers of the insulation material, this helps to slow down the rate of warm air leaving the insulated space.

Insulation also effectively covers any gaps or open cracks that may be present in the sides or roof of your shed, which also helps to slow the rate of hot air getting back outside again.

Insulation Materials

When it comes to insulation materials, there are a variety of different options to choose from. Here are just a few of the most popular choices, one of which may work for your specific shed.

Bubble Wrap

One of the most cost effective and popular materials for shed insulation, bubble wrap is a great option for any budget. However, insulation bubble wrap is not the same kind you would find when wrapping items during a house move. Instead, you want to be using bubble wrap that has a foil backing.

This foil backing can then be attached to wall studs and the inside of your shed roof in order to seal in as much of the warm air as possible. In many cases, it is also possible to fit foil backed bubble wrap behind the interior walls of your shed, so that it isn't visible but instead covered by the false wall.

This might be a good option for those who are using their shed as an outside office or home gym. The reason foil backed bubble wrap is so effective is because it is made with little tiny air pockets. These air pockets are what allow the air to move between it so slowly, helping to provide a more balanced interior temperature. To install -

Ensure you have measured out your bubble wrap correctlyMake sure each piece overlaps to avoid gaps and draughtsAttach to shed walls by stapling or tackingUse a panel to conceal the bubble wrap - MDF panels are a popular choice

Fibreglass Wool

If you have a loft or attic, you may already be familiar with the look and feel of fibreglass wool. However, fibreglass wool can be a little harder to work with than other materials as it is an irritant, so be sure to wear appropriate protection over your hands, eyes and mouth. To install -

Open your bags of fibreglass wool and allow them to expand before usingPlace the fibreglass wool within the joists of the roof or behind the wall studsReplace MDF panelling to conceal

Fibreglass wool is great for complete insulation from top to bottom of your shed, so although the material can be trickier to use, it is worth it for the long-term superior. insulation.

Mineral Wool

Similar to fibreglass wool, mineral wool has the added advantage that it is non-irritating, making it much easier to work with. For this reason, it is often now recommended in place of fibreglass wool where available. It can also be installed in exactly the same way as fibreglass wool too.

Moreover, because mineral wool is actually denser than fibreglass wool, it has some other advantages too. These include making it more fire resistant, as well as being better acoustically.

Celotex

Insulation boards are becoming more popular when it comes to shed insulation. This is because they are easy to work with, especially a particular type of board called Celotex. Made from both polystyrene and plywood materials, Celotex comes foil backed and is quick and simple to attach to roof joists or between wall studs. Celotex can also be used to insulate foundations too, as it can be laid beneath timber and concrete flooring.

The Thermal Envelope

When it comes to thinking about the best way to insulate your shed, you want to keep in mind the visual of your shed's thermal envelope. The thermal envelope is just a flowery way of saying all the points at which air might escape from your shed.

So before purchasing your insulation, at Dublin Garden Sheds be sure to find out first which areas of your shed are losing air fastest. Heat generally escapes via the roof first,(a whopping 40%!), followed by the walls.

Always make sure to order enough insulation so that it can overlap behind wall studs and roof joists to prevent any air loss and unwanted draughts. Also consider caulking any cracks or other gaps to provide a better insulated environment.

By knowing the thermal envelope points of your shed, you will be able to insulate your shed much more efficiently.