Cheap Shed Insulation: 6 Cheapest Ways to Insulate a Shed

The garden shed is unique in UK households, with over half the population owning one. Serving as everything from storage and workshops to cosy lounges, sheds are versatile spaces that add value and free up room in the home. Yet, many sheds remain uninsulated, leading to temperature extremes, dampness, and potential damage to belongings. Unprotected from the elements, tools may rust, and any wooden structure risks mould and decay over time.

Shed insulation, even on a budget, is a practical way to combat these issues, making the space more comfortable and long-lasting. Basic insulation can help regulate temperatures, reduce dampness, and create a barrier against the cold and moisture of the British climate. Whether your shed is a workshop, home office, or just a storage space, adding insulation is an investment in its durability and usability.

This guide offers affordable insulation options, from simple DIY methods to budget-friendly materials like bubble wrap, reflective foil, and recycled insulation boards. With these solutions, you can protect your shed, enhance comfort, and make the most of this valuable outdoor space—without a hefty price tag.

The most effective way to achieve affordable shed insulation is by working with an insulation specialist who can tailor the solution to fit your needs and budget. While comparing multiple quotes is essential to finding the right match, it can be time-consuming and doesn't always yield results. Fortunately, GreenMatch can streamline this for you. Fill out our 30-second form, and we'll connect you with up to four free quotes from top-rated insulation specialists in your area. Click below to get started!

Shed insulation prices can range from £670 to £1,600, depending on factors like the size of your shed and the materials you choose. However, there are plenty of ways to lower these costs. While affordability is critical, it’s essential to consider that thermal performance differs across materials, and opting for a more effective option may better support your energy efficiency goals. Below is a list of the cheapest ways and insulation materials for your shed:

Bubble wrap is among the most affordable options for insulating your shed, with an average cost of around £10 per m2. Its air pockets trap heat effectively, helping to maintain warmth inside the shed. Widely available, bubble wrap is easily accessible for anyone looking for a budget-friendly insulation solution. Additionally, it is lightweight and easy to install making it an excellent choice for DIY projects.

For enhanced thermal efficiency, consider foil-backed bubble wrap. The added foil layers on both sides reflect heat, improving the material's insulating properties. Specifically designed for shed insulation, foil-backed bubble wrap delivers excellent results for mild conditions. However, it has a low R-value of 1.0 to 1.1, making it less effective in colder weather.

Polystyrene (EPS) boards are one of the most affordable rigid foam board insulation types, often considered the cheapest option in this category. With an average cost of around £10 per m2, EPS boards offer excellent value for money. Their lightweight design, ease of cutting and installation, and wide availability make them popular for those seeking budget-friendly shed insulation.

EPS boards deliver moderate thermal performance, with an R-value of approximately 4 to 4.5 per inch. This makes them effective in reducing heat loss, helping maintain a comfortable shed temperature during winter and summer. Additionally, EPS is moisture-resistant, which helps to prevent mould and condensation issues.

However, EPS has some limitations. It is incompatible with certain cladding and roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles, hot mop, or torch-down roofs, as high temperatures and solvents can damage it. An additional protective coating or layer is necessary to protect EPS in these situations. Additionally, EPS is not highly fire-resistant; it can melt and drip under extreme heat, potentially spreading fire and releasing toxic fumes. Despite these drawbacks, EPS boards remain a cost-effective insulation solution for sheds when used appropriately.

Cellulose is another affordable material you can use to insulate your shed. Made from recycled paper, cellulose is available in wet or dry forms and is ideal for pitched roofs. While it offers easy application, it typically requires specialised equipment, making DIY installation more challenging.

Costing an average of £11 per m2, cellulose is not only cost-effective but also one of the most eco-friendly insulation materials, perfect for those aiming to reduce their carbon footprint. Its thermal performance is solid, with an R-value ranging from 3.1 to 3.8 per inch, helping to keep your shed warm in winter and cool in summer. Additionally, cellulose is treated with boric acids, making it naturally resistant to fire and mould.

However, there are some limitations. Cellulose can absorb moisture, leading to sagging or settling over time, which may lower its insulating efficiency. To counter this, installing a vapour barrier is necessary. Dust created during installation can also be an issue, requiring the use of a protective mask.

PIR boards are another cost-effective material for insulating your shed, priced at around £12.50 per m2. These boards are made from plastic foam and offer exceptional thermal performance, with a high R-value ranging from 5.6 to 7.0, depending on the product and temperature. This makes them highly effective at resisting heat flow and maintaining a comfortable shed environment in warm and cold conditions.

Lightweight and easy to install, PIR boards are compatible with most cladding and roofing materials, including metal, brick, stone, wood, vinyl, and asphalt shingles. PIR boards are also fire-resistant and have a relatively low environmental impact compared to other rigid foam board insulations.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. PIR boards have a low resistance to water absorption, with the potential to absorb up to 3% of their weight in water if exposed to wet conditions. This can reduce their R-value and increase the risk of mould growth and rot. Additionally, the R-value of PIR boards can decline in colder climates, slightly reducing their efficiency in extreme temperatures.

Despite these considerations, PIR boards remain affordable and highly effective for shed insulation, mainly when used in controlled environments or with adequate waterproofing measures.

Opting for DIY shed insulation is an excellent way to significantly reduce costs. Professional installation can often cost as much as the insulation materials, with labour charges adding up to hundreds of pounds. You can save around £250 per day on labour costs by insulating your shed yourself.

Combining this strategy with purchasing inexpensive insulation materials—such as bubble wrap, EPS boards, or cellulose—can further lower costs, making it one of the most budget-friendly ways to insulate your shed. With proper research and preparation, DIY enthusiasts can achieve good thermal performance while minimising expenses.

However, it’s essential to weigh the trade-offs. While the financial savings are appealing, professional insulation jobs often yield more effective and durable results. Professionals are equipped with specialised tools and expertise, ensuring proper installation and minimising heat loss, drafts, and moisture-related issues. Mistakes in DIY insulation—such as gaps, improper sealing, or using incompatible materials—can compromise the shed’s thermal efficiency and lead to higher energy costs.

If you are confident in your skills and willing to dedicate the time, DIY insulation can be a cost-effective and rewarding choice. However, hiring a professional might be worth the additional expense, as it ensures a high-quality installation with minimal risk of errors. 

To find the right insulation specialist that fits your needs and budget, comparing multiple quotes is essential. GreenMatch can simplify this process by providing up to four free quotes from top insulation professionals. Just fill out a quick 30-second form, and you'll receive quotes in no time. Click below to learn more!

Concentrating on areas where heat escapes the most is a cost-effective way to insulate your shed. Prioritising key zones, such as the walls, ceiling, and floor, ensures maximum thermal efficiency without requiring a full-scale insulation project. Here are the key areas to consider:

Focusing on walls, ceilings, and floors helps reduce material and installation costs compared to fully insulating the entire shed. Targeting these high-priority areas ensures your shed retains heat more effectively. Additional areas, such as doors and windows, can be insulated gradually as your budget permits. 

By prioritising walls, insulating a shed roof, and adding shed floor insulation, you can significantly minimise heat loss and enhance your shed’s comfort. This strategic approach not only saves money upfront but also allows for a step-by-step upgrade to your shed’s insulation over time.

To determine which areas to prioritise and how to save money on your shed insulation, it’s helpful to consult trusted insulation specialists. Their expertise can guide you in choosing the best materials and areas to insulate based on your needs and budget. By filling out our quick 30-second form, you can receive up to four free quotes from top insulation professionals in your area. Click below to get started!