Northern Homeowners Slash Energy Bills by £650 with Smart Flooring Choices
by Northern Life
Recent research shows that UK households can save up to £650 annually on energy bills through proper wall and loft insulation, with effective home insulation reducing heat loss by over 60%. What many don’t realise is that floors account for up to 15% of heat loss in typical homes, making quality underlay a smart investment for cash-strapped families.
Simply Underlay, the UK-based carpet underlay specialist, which commissioned the research into the latest energy efficiency data published by the UK government, believes many homeowners in the north are missing out on significant savings because of their choice of flooring in their homes.
The Science Behind the Savings
Mike Jones, GM at Simply Underlay, explains how flooring affects cost of living: “Quality carpet underlay acts as a thermal barrier between your flooring and the cold subfloor beneath. Dense, high-performance underlay can reduce heat loss significantly, meaning your heating system doesn’t work as hard to maintain comfortable temperatures.”
Modern underlay materials utilise advanced foam structures and reflective layers that bounce heat back into rooms, rather than allowing it to seep through floorboards.
Perfect Timing
Recent data shows that more than a sixth (17%) of UK homeowners plan to spend between £5,001 and £10,000 on property improvements in 2025, with energy efficiency driving many of these decisions.
“We’re seeing a real shift in priorities,” notes Jones. “Families are moving away from purely cosmetic improvements toward upgrades that deliver measurable savings. A quality underlay installation typically pays for itself within two heating seasons.”
Northern homeowners also have access to government support. The Chancellor has confirmed £13.2 billion in funding for the Warm Homes Plan between 2025 and 2030, supporting schemes that reduce fuel poverty through measures including insulation.
Quick Wins
Quality underlay costs between £3 and £8 per square metre, meaning a typical three-bedroom Northern terrace might require £200-400 worth of material, plus £150-250 for installation. Many homeowners tackle this as a weekend project.
The benefits extend beyond energy savings as well. Better underlay improves comfort underfoot, reduces noise, and extends the life of your carpet.
“When your floors feel warmer, you will naturally set your thermostat a degree or two lower,” says Jones. “Over a full heating season, that adds up to real money.”
