DIY Insulation: What to Tackle Yourself and When to Call the Pros

Summer is the perfect time to think about home improvements; insulation is one upgrade that delivers comfort and savings year-round. Whether you’re keeping the summer heat out or preparing for a warmer winter, insulation is key to making your home more energy-efficient. But should you roll up your sleeves for a DIY project, or is it better to leave it to the professionals?

For homeowners who enjoy hands-on projects, there are a few insulation tasks you can tackle yourself. Sealing gaps around windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulking is a quick and affordable way to stop drafts and improve energy efficiency. Insulating exposed hot water pipes or wrapping your hot water cylinder is another straightforward job that reduces heat loss. Adding insulation to an attic hatch is simple and can prevent heat from escaping through the roof.

These tasks require minimal tools and experience, making them great entry-level projects. However, always wear safety gear like gloves and masks when handling insulation materials, and follow product instructions closely to ensure the best results.

For larger jobs, professional installation is a wise choice. Jobs like ceiling and underfloor insulation require navigating tight spaces and working around electrical wiring, making them risky for DIYers. Retrofitting wall insulation is even more challenging, involving specialised equipment to ensure the material is evenly installed without damaging the structure of your home.

Professionals also have the expertise to assess your current insulation, pinpoint energy leaks, and recommend the most effective solutions. At GreenSide Energy Solutions, our trained team ensures installations meet New Zealand’s insulation standards for safety, efficiency, and long-term performance.

A well-insulated home stays cooler in summer and warmer in winter, helping you save on energy bills. Insulation also prevents dampness and mould, creating a healthier and more comfortable living space. In addition to reducing your carbon footprint, proper insulation increases your home’s resale value—making it a smart investment for the future.

The Warmer Kiwi Homes Grant makes professional insulation much more affordable. It covers up to 80% of the ceiling and underfloor insulation cost, which typically ranges between $3,000–$5,000 for ceilings and $2,000–$4,000 for underfloors. That means you could insulate a typical three-bedroom home for as little as $200–$1,000 out of pocket. In some cases, the grant may even cover the entire cost.

To qualify, your home must be built before 2008, and you’ll need to hold a Community Services Card or live in a low-income area. Check here to see if you are eligible. GreenSide Energy Solutions can guide you through the application process, ensuring you get the funding you’re eligible for.

The Warmer Kiwi Homes Grant makes professional insulation much more affordable. Why would you purchase thousands of materials and go through the hassle of installing insulation yourself when you can have the professionals supply and install it for only a few hundred and/or in large areas, even for FREE? 

Whether taking on small DIY tasks or investing in professional upgrades, insulation is one of the most impactful improvements you can make to your home. Contact us to schedule your free energy assessment and discover how we can help make your home more energy-efficient, comfortable, and affordable to heat and cool.