Target U-value

Floor intent

How much insulation for floor?

Floor insulation depends on whether the floor is on grade, over a void, or part of a heated structure. Use this page for a quick reference result.

Best for

  • Floors
  • Slabs over ground
  • Suspended floors
Worked example

How much insulation is needed to reach 0.20 W/m²K?

Use the same formula as the calculator: target resistance minus existing resistance, then convert to thickness with the insulation lambda.

Example build-up

Target U-value 0.20 W/m²K, existing floor resistance 1.20 m2K/W, insulation lambda 0.035 W/mK.

Result

Required insulation thickness is approximately 11.3 cm.

Floor notes

Why floor thickness can vary

Ground contact

Floors on ground can behave differently from suspended floors.

Service space

Pipes, services, and screeds can affect the available insulation depth.

Check the build-up

The structure and finish layers can contribute useful resistance before insulation is added.

Related pages

Next steps

Insulation thickness calculator

Open the calculator for a custom floor or wall build-up.

Open calculator

Insulation thickness guide

Read the practical guide for choosing a thickness.

Open guide

How much insulation for concrete wall

Compare the same target-U method on a wall page.

Open page