How to check for ceiling insulation?

[farazp9]

Hi, I’d like to hear from experts in ceiling insulation. Our house is 22 years old, and ever since we bought it, I’ve noticed that there doesn’t seem to be any insulation in the ceiling (at least none that I can see). The ceiling appears to be covered with thick wooden panels that can be walked on. Is it possible that insulation was never installed? Or could it have been laid first, with the wooden panels placed on top?

[EricL]

Hello @farazp9 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us and thanks for sharing your question about your ceiling insulation.

Before you take anything apart, I suggest having those panels in your ceiling tested for asbestos. It's possible that it could be coated with it and any accidental removal of those panels will cause the asbestos to spread. If there is asbestos, you will need to engage the services of an asbestos removal specialist. In the meantime, I suggest not going into your ceiling cavity until the tests come back. 

If the tests come back negative. I recommend lifting one of the boards to see if there is insulation underneath. If there is insulation perhaps it's time to up-grade it to something more modern to increase its efficiency. 

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[Jewelleryrescue]

Hi @farazp9 

I use wooden flooring in my roof to create a walkable path through the roof space underneath is  a treated paper insulation that works great and is rodent proof (borax infused)  and fire retardent it just wont burn even with a  blow torch it just goes out. But the boards only cover the walk able areas.

Your Timber itself is a very good insulator and if it is over the rafters it is creating an sealed air gap so that insulates  again.  so I cant tell you what R rating  for insulation your timber / air ?  situation you might have there as is.

So  try lift your boards  and see what you have underneath any further insulation is a bonus.

As  long as this covers all your roof area you might be already insulated.