Metropolitan Insulation Blog

20
May
2020

QUIET, PLEASE!

ACOUSTIC DESIGN FOR NOISE CONTROL.

State-of-art acoustic design can dramatically reduce sound transmission through shared walls and street-facing windows.

Today’s new homes, with their open-concept designs, quartz countertops, tile and hardwood floors, high ceilings, TVs mounted on walls and large floor-to-ceiling windows, are being embraced by builders, architects, renovators and homeowners alike for their clean, modern and minimalist ambience. But while these designs are pleasing to the eye, they are not necessarily pleasing to the ear.

A few decades back, heavy drapes on windows, carpeting on the floors and bulky furniture did much to deaden echoes in large rooms and suppress noises from other parts of the house. By contrast, modern open-concept design and bare floors promote echo-y spaces and room-to-room noise, with little regard for acoustics.

Posted by admin in Acoustic panels, Control Sound, Modern Soundproofing, Sound Absorption, Sound Insulation Ideas, Soundproofing, Soundproofing Apartments, Soundproofing New Homes
13
May
2020

The chicest innovations in soundproofing

Aside from your typical spray foam insulation, the quest for a quieter environment is no longer in vain. Design has caught up with sound-absorbing tech, offering stylish solutions so that you can enjoy the (almost) silence.

Anyone in an open office environment can appreciate eliminating incessant reverberation of voices and movements, but our relationship to sound is not static—some ambient noise is a good thing. And while many of the latest innovations might seem most appropriate for contract and hospitality settings, a craving for quiet seems universal, and the norms that define the workplace are shifting further away from the strict desk-job narrative.

According to Rodrigo Gomes, of Bose, noise canceling can help you focus and be more productive. If a host of acoustically smart design products can create a physical environment that’s just quiet enough, maybe we can actually think for a minute.

To see a range of ultra modern ways to reduce sound travelling in your office take a look HERE.

Posted by admin in Commercial Property, Control Sound, Hotel Soundproofing, Improved Insulation, Insulate Your Home, Insulation Reduce Noise, Metropolitan Insulation, Modern Soundproofing, Noise pollution, Noisy Neighbours, Office Soundproofing, Sound Absorption, Sound Insulation for Old Houses, Sound Insulation Ideas, Soundproofing, Soundproofing Apartments, Soundproofing Commercial Property, Spray Foam Insulation
18
Mar
2020

7 reasons why you should choose spray foam insulation

But what other advantages does using this kind of insulation provide?

1. Dynamic insulation

One of the great advantages of spray foam is that it expands on contact to dynamically seal all spaces, no matter how awkward. This means it gives a total seal with no gaps that traditional insulation can leave behind.

2. Great energy savings

Most homeowners would love to save some money on their energy bills each month. Using spray foam insulation helps here as it reduces your energy usage and the money you spend on it by regulating the temperature in your home.

3. Space saving solution

You would be surprised at how much space you can save using this insulation. When added to your roofline, you can get up to 10 inches more loft storage or even convert the space into another room.

4. Stops air filtration

If you have spaces where cold air is coming in and warm air is escaping, then this is poor for your overall insulation. Spray foam is great for reducing air filtration and helping your home to stay warmer.

5. Healthier living

Many people who suffer from illnesses like asthma often feel better after this insulation is installed. As spray foam gives a complete seal to the property, it stops airborne pollutants from causing issues.

6. It is tough

When you insulate your home, you want to use something that will last a long time. Spray foam insulation is a great option as it is tough and durable.

7. It is good for the planet

As well as helping to cut down on your bills, spray foam loft insulation will also help to save the planet. As you will use less energy, you will have less impact on the earth around you.

Let Metropolitan Insulation help today

If you like the sound of what spray foam insulation can offer, call us today. We are spray foam experts in the installation of this insulation for all kinds of property. If you want to save energy, money and space, get in touch with us now.

Call us now 0800 028 4042

Posted by admin in Commercial Property, Home Insulation, How To Soundproof Doors, Improved Insulation, Insulate Your Home, Insulating Your Loft, Metropolitan Insulation, Sound Insulation Ideas, Soundproofing, Soundproofing Commercial Property, Spray Foam Insulation, Thermal Insulation, Type of insulation
21
Feb
2020

How to protect a lead roof from thieves

Lead has been popularly used as a high quality roofing material for many years due to its durability, resistance to corrosion and malleability.

Lead is commonly found in the roofs of schools and churches but can also be found on some commercial and residential properties too.

Unfortunately, over recent years, the value of metals like lead have dramatically risen, making properties with lead roofing a target for thieves.

As the value of lead soars, more and more people are returning to their properties to find their roofs have been stripped by thieves who will then sell the lead as scrap metal.

Here are five ways to protect a lead roof from thieves.

Remove access to roof

Don’t make it easy for thieves to access your roof. Remove ladders, bins, or garden furniture that may make it easier for thieves to scale your building and prune back any nearby trees that might provide easy access to the roof. 

Secure the perimeter

Make sure the boundaries surrounding your property are secure and always keep your gate locked to make it difficult for thieves to access the property. 

Apply anti-climb paint

Consider applying anti-climb paints to your property’s drainpipes to make it difficult for thieves to climb them. Remember, if you choose to do this, you’ll also need signs informing of the anti-climb paint for liability reasons, these also make excellent deterrents.

Install CCTV and security lighting

The presence of CCTV systems and security lighting is often enough of a deterrent in itself to stop opportunist thieves in their tracks.

Apply spray foam insulation

When you apply spray foam insulation to the underside of your property’s roof, not only will it improve your property’s energy efficiency, it can also help to prevent lead theft. Spray foam insulation works by bonding your roofing materials to each other and to the roof’s structural timbers. This makes your roof stronger and prevents thieves from easily removing materials from your roof.

For more information about our spray foam insulation, or to request a free consultation, get in touch with our team by calling us on 0800 028 4042.

Posted by admin in Choosing Insulation, Home Insulation, Improved Insulation, Insulate Your Home, Insulating Your Loft, Metropolitan Insulation, Noise pollution, Rigid Foam Insulation, Soundproofing, Spray Foam Insulation, Super Materials, Thermal Insulation, Type of insulation
05
Feb
2020

Can you replace the tiles on a foam insulated roof?

Spray foam insulation bonds the tiles on your roof together, but replacing a damaged tile is still simple enough when you know how.

When spray foam is applied to the underside of a property’s roof it bonds the roofing materials to each other and to the structural timber, holding everything securely in place.

As well as sealing all gaps and cracks in the roof to make the property warmer and more energy-efficient, spray foam can also help to protect and support your roof’s structure and increase its lifespan.

Whilst spray foam will make your roof stronger and more durable, it won’t make it invincible and it is still possible that tiles on your roof may become damaged.

If a tile on your foam insulated roof cracks or breaks then don’t worry, replacing it may be simpler than you think.

Removing a tile on a spray foam insulated roof

If a tile on your roof becomes broken, then it’s important to get it repaired as quickly as possible to prevent water leaking into your property and causing expensive damage.

To remove one or more tiles from a spray foam insulated roof you are likely to need to remove the insulation first.

You may wish to begin by using a saw or utility knife to cut away the majority of the foam that you need to remove. With the bulk of the foam gone, you should be able to scrub away the rest with a strong wire brush or sponge. It may help to apply a small amount of acetone before you scrub the foam to help to loosen the bond.

Once the foam has been removed, the broken tile can be replaced, and the spray foam will need to be restored to ensure that the insulation keeps working efficiently.

For further help or advice with repairing damaged tiles on a spray foam insulated roof, get in touch with our team of experts here at Metropolitan Insulation by calling us on 0800 028 4042.

Posted by admin in Hotel Soundproofing, How To Soundproof Doors, Improved Insulation, Insulate Your Home, Insulating Your Loft, Insulation Fire Rated, Insulation Reduce Noise, Insulation To Last, Metropolitan Insulation, Noise pollution, Noisy household appliances, Noisy Neighbours, Rigid Foam Insulation, Soundproofing, Spray Foam Insulation, Thermal Insulation, Type of insulation
25
Jan
2020

Benefits of spray foam insulation for historic or listed buildings

Spray foam insulation is an ideal solution for securing tiles on the roofs of listed and historic buildings.

Spray foam insulation is applied to the underside of roofs to bond slates and tiles together, providing effective insulation and structural support.

Whilst spray foam insulation can benefit buildings of all different shapes, sizes and ages, it can be particularly useful for securing tiles on the roofs of historic or listed buildings, here’s why:

Preserve appearance

It is very important to preserve the appearance and original character of historic and listed buildings by retaining original features and materials where possible. Securing and sealing the existing roof with spray foam can help to bond the existing roof and tiles together to cure nail fatigue and avoid the need to replace roofing materials.

Protect roof tiles against theft

Very old and listed buildings are also more likely to have valuable tiles on their roofs, including lead tiles, which are frequently targeted by thieves.

Bonding your roof’s tiles together and to the roof’s structure using spray foam will help to protect valuable roof tiles from being stolen.

Further benefits of spray foam insulation

As well as protecting and preserving the outer appearance of historic and listed buildings, spray foam insulation provides a whole host of other benefits including:

  • Affordable solution to re-roofing.
  • Makes the roof weather-resistant.
  • Seals the roof to get rid of air leaks and draughts.
  • Improves the building’s energy efficiency.
  • Keeps the building feeling warm and comfortable.
  • Prevents condensation build-up.
  • Reduces the risk of pipes and tanks freezing.

The spray foam we install at Metropolitan Insulation prevents interstitial condensation, whilst also allowing the roof’s battens to ‘breathe’. It also meets Class 1 Surface Spread of Flame when tested to BS 476 Part 7:1997.

For more information about our spray foam insulation, or to request a free consultation, get in touch with our team by calling us on 0800 028 4042.

Posted by admin in Climate and Insulation, Commercial Property, Home Insulation, How To Soundproof Doors, Improved Insulation, Insulate Your Home, Insulating Your Loft, Insulation Reduce Noise, Insulation To Last, Metropolitan Insulation, Noise pollution, Sound Absorption, Sound Insulation for Old Houses, Sound Insulation Ideas, Soundproofing, Spray Foam Insulation, Thermal Insulation
15
Jan
2020

Noisy household appliances and how to stop them being a nuisance

You may be used to the familiar sounds of your household appliances whirring, buzzing and humming, but have you considered how the noise pollution in your home could be affecting your health?

According to the World Health Organisation, being exposed to noise that exceeds 55db can disturb sleep and cause stress, having a negative effect on health and wellbeing.

Other more serious illnesses that have been linked to exposure to high noise levels include heart disease, hearing problems, high blood pressure, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

Whilst we may quickly find excessive noise from our neighbours or traffic outside extremely irritating, many of us accept and put up with the noise made by our household appliances.

Some of the noisiest appliances in our homes include:

  • Hairdryers
  • Vacuum cleaners
  • Food processors
  • Washing machines
  • Dishwashers
  • Air conditioning
  • Extractor fans
  • Refrigerators
  • Lawnmowers

If you have appliances in your home that make an excessive noise, there are steps you can take to try to minimise the effect they have on your health and wellbeing.

Close doors

Unless you have a home with an open plan design, simply remembering to close doors whilst very noisy appliances are being used can help to reduce the level of noise you and your family are being subjected to.

Replace noisy appliances with low noise Quiet Mark appliances

Quiet Mark is an international mark of approval given to certain low noise appliances by the UK’s Noise Abatement Society.

Soundproof your home

Speak to our team of experts here at Metropolitan Insulation about our domestic soundproofing and sound insulation services. We install a variety of different acoustic insulation solutions including absorbing foams, sound barrier mats, acoustic tiles, sound absorbing diffusers, and sound screens.

For more information about our services or to discuss your requirements, give us a call on 0800 028 4042.

Posted by admin in Acoustic blinds or curtains, Hotel Soundproofing, Improved Insulation, Insulate Your Home, Insulating Your Loft, Metropolitan Insulation, Noisy household appliances, Sound Absorption, Sound Insulation Ideas, Soundproofing, Spray Foam Insulation
11
Dec
2019

Does vermiculate insulation contain asbestos?

Should you be concerned if you have vermiculate insulation in your roof?

Vermiculate insulation is commonly used to insulate building roofs and walls. If you have vermiculate insulation in your home, you may be concerned by reports that some vermiculate can contain asbestos.

If your vermiculate insulation was installed after 1990 then you’ll be relieved to know that it is unlikely to contain asbestos. There is however a chance that older vermiculate insulation could be contaminated with the dangerous substance.

What is vermiculate?

Vermiculate is a natural material that expands when it is heated, making it ideal for insulation. It is flaky material that looks a little like grey, lightweight gravel. 

Vermiculate and asbestos

In its natural form, vermiculate is not dangerous and does not contain asbestos. However, prior to the 1990s, most vermiculate originated from one mine in America which was contaminated with asbestos, later causing problems for over 35 million homeowners in the USA.

Unfortunately, vermiculate from the same mine was imported to the UK for use as insulation in our homes prior to the 1990s, so it is possible that if your home contains very old vermiculate insulation it could too be contaminated with asbestos.

How to deal with old vermiculate insulation

Asbestos is a very dangerous substance that poses numerous health risks. It is a known carcinogen and can cause a variety of serious lung diseases and health problems.

If you suspect that your insulation could be contaminated by asbestos, then it is very important not to touch or disturb it any way as asbestos is most dangerous when it becomes airborne.

Instead, seek help from a professional who is licensed in the removal of asbestos. They can then test for the presence of asbestos and safely remove the insulation if necessary.

Spray foam insulation

If you are removing old insulation from your roof, then it will need to be replaced with a new insulation material to keep your home warm, comfortable and energy efficient.

Speak to our team here at Metropolitan Insulation about the benefits of our spray foam roof insulation by calling us on 0800 028 4042.

Posted by admin in Asbestos, Asbestos Encapsulation, Asbestos Exposure, Asbestos in a Commercial Property, Insulate Your Home, Insulating Your Loft, Metropolitan Insulation, Noise pollution, Sound Absorption, Sound Insulation Ideas, Thermal Insulation, Type of insulation, vermiculate insulation
05
Dec
2019

How to handle noisy neighbours

Excessive noise pollution from neighbours is not only annoying, with time it can also begin to negatively impact your health and wellbeing.

Even your dream home can turn into a nightmare if the wrong people move in next door. Whether it’s all-night parties, arguments, barking dogs or musical instruments, here are your options for dealing with noisy neighbours.

Communicate calmly

In most cases, people don’t even realise that their actions are disturbing those around them. The very first thing to do if your neighbours’ noise is disturbing you is to pop round and have a word with them face to face.

Make sure that you’re polite, amiable and calm and provide examples of times when their noise has disturbed you and how it has affected you or your family. Try to avoid letting the conversation turn confrontational.

Report noise to the council or a private landlord

If you have tried speaking to your neighbour about their noise to no avail, you may wish to report their behaviour to their landlord or to the council. 

Before doing so it can be useful to keep a noise diary of all disturbances so that you have specific examples to talk about. The council has a duty to investigate activity that can be classed as a ‘statutory nuisance’, such as excessive noise.

If the property is privately rented, then your neighbour may be breaching a clause in their tenancy agreement.

Bear in mind that reporting your neighbours can raise tensions and it’s always best to try to resolve the problem between the two of you first if possible.

Mediation

Mediation is a process where parties meet up, usually in a neutral environment, and communicate to resolve a disagreement. Mediation is controlled by a trained independent third party and you may be required to pay for the service.

Go to court

Taking your neighbour to court should only be used as a very last resort. The process can be time-consuming, costly and very messy.

Install sound insulation on your home

It may not be that your neighbours are excessively noisy, it could just be that you have paper thin walls. If you can hear every cough and sneeze from next door, then the chances are that they can hear you too. If you plan on staying in the same house for the foreseeable future then installing sound insulation in your home could be a good investment for the future.

Posted by admin in Home Insulation, Improved Insulation, Insulate Your Home, Insulating Your Loft, Insulation Fire Rated, Insulation Reduce Noise, Insulation To Last, Metropolitan Insulation, Noisy Neighbours, Sound Insulation Ideas, Soundproofing, Spray Foam Insulation, Super Materials, Thermal Insulation, Type of insulation
07
Nov
2019

5 tips for a warmer home this winter

Use the tips in this blog to keep your home warm and your heating bills down this winter, for a cosier and more energy-efficient home.

As winter draws in, now is a good time to take measures to make your home more energy-efficient.

Not only will this keep you feeling warm and comfortable, it will also reduce your energy bills and lower your carbon footprint.

Draught-proof

Tiny spaces, holes and cracks around windows, doors, floorboards and pipework all allow cold air to creep into your home. Draught excluders and insulating tape can be used to quickly and affordably seal your home and keep it feeling warm and cosy.

Insulate your roof

On average, 25% of a house’s heat is lost through its roof. If your roof is not yet insulated, then installing insulation can help to make your home feel more comfortable and reduce your energy bills.

At Metropolitan Insulation, we install spray foam insulation to the underside of the roof, filling and sealing all cracks and gaps in the roof to keep your home warm and strengthen your roof.

Bleed radiators

Make sure your radiators are in full working order and operating energy-efficiently by bleeding them before the cold weather sets in. Simply use a radiator bleed key from a DIY store to gently open the radiator’s valve and allow any trapped air to escape. 

Shut your curtains

Invest in thick, high quality thermal curtains for your windows, particularly very large ones. Prevent warm air from escaping out of your windows by drawing your curtains as soon as it begins to get dark in the evenings, preferably before your heating comes on.

Buy a thick rug

Wooden floorboards look beautiful, but heat escapes through the floor and they can also be draughty during the colder months. Laying a large thick rug over your floorboards can help to prevent heat loss and keep your floor feeling warm and comfortable underfoot.

For more information about the spray foam roof insulation that we offer here at Metropolitan Insulation, or to book a free consultation, give our team a call on 0800 028 4042.

Posted by admin in Choosing Insulation, Climate and Insulation, Heat escaping, Home Insulation, Improved Insulation, Insulate Your Home, Insulating Your Loft, Metropolitan Insulation, warmer home