Aerolite Insulation

Aerolite Insulation for Cooler Summers and Warmer Winters

Aerolite insulation is a high-performance glasswool ceiling insulation manufactured by Isover, a division of Saint-Gobain. It is designed to slow heat transfer through the ceiling, helping homes and buildings remain cooler during hot weather and retain more warmth during winter.

Aerolite® Soft Touch is available in 50mm, 100mm and 135mm thicknesses. Each option has a different roll size, coverage and R-value, so it is important to choose according to the building, climate zone, existing insulation and required thermal performance—not price alone.

For most South African homes requiring new ceiling insulation, 135mm Aerolite provides the strongest performance in the standard range. The thinner options remain useful for particular applications, including topping up suitable existing insulation.

Aerolite Insulation Prices and Roll Coverage

Aerolite insulation is sold per roll. The current roll-price range appears in the product purchasing section above. Select a thickness to see the exact price for that variation.

Rolls with greater coverage are not necessarily the best-value choice for every project. A thinner product can cost less per square metre but will provide a lower R-value. When comparing Aerolite prices, consider both the coverage and the thermal performance you will receive.

To estimate the quantity required, measure the ceiling length and width in metres and multiply them to calculate the square metres. Divide the total ceiling area by the coverage per roll and round up to the next complete roll. Irregular roof spaces, obstructions and cutting may require a reasonable allowance for waste.

Which Aerolite Thickness Should You Choose?

50mm Aerolite Insulation

One 50mm Aerolite roll measures 10m × 1.2m and covers 12m². It provides a product R-value of 1.14.

The manufacturer primarily recommends 50mm Aerolite as top-up insulation in homes where insulation is already installed, but the existing thermal performance needs improvement. On its own, 50mm is generally not the best choice when maximum ceiling-insulation performance is required.

 

100mm Aerolite Insulation

One 100mm Aerolite Insulation roll measures 6m × 1.2m and covers 7.2m². It provides a product R-value of 2.50. This thickness provides a worthwhile improvement over 50mm and may suit specific energy zones, budgets or upgrade projects. However, it should not automatically be treated as the correct option for every South African home. The required insulation level depends on the relevant climate zone and the thermal performance of the complete roof-and-ceiling system.

135mm Aerolite Insulation

One 135mm Aerolite roll measures 5m × 1.2m and covers 6m². It provides the highest product R-value in the standard Aerolite Soft Touch range at R3.38.

For most new ceiling-insulation projects, 135mm is the strongest option because it offers substantially better resistance to heat flow. It is generally the preferred Aerolite thickness across most South African energy zones, subject to the design and compliance requirements of the complete building system.

Aerolite Insulation Technical Specifications

Thickness	Roll dimensions	Coverage	Product R-value	Thermal conductivity	Density	NRC
50mm	10m × 1.2m	12m²	R1.14	0.044 W/m·K	10 kg/m³	0.80
100mm	6m × 1.2m	7.2m²	R2.50	0.040 W/m·K	11 kg/m³	1.00
135mm	5m × 1.2m	6m²	R3.38	0.040 W/m·K	11 kg/m³	1.10

These are product R-values, not the R-value of the entire installed roof system. The roof covering, air spaces, ceiling board and other components can affect the total system performance.

Aerolite Soft Touch carries the SABS mark to SABS 1381 Part 1. It is non-combustible and has an A1 fire classification under the applicable current fire-testing standard. Always consult the latest manufacturer documentation when a project requires formal specification or regulatory approval.

How Aerolite Ceiling Insulation Works

Heat naturally moves from warmer areas towards cooler areas. In summer, a hot roof can transfer heat into the rooms below. In winter, heat generated inside the home can escape through an uninsulated ceiling.

Aerolite Ceiling Insulation traps air within its glass fibres and slows this movement of heat. It does not produce heat or cooling; instead, it reduces the rate at which heat passes through the ceiling. Correctly installed insulation can therefore make indoor temperatures more stable and reduce reliance on heaters, fans and air conditioning.

The benefit is usually noticeable throughout the year:

• In summer, it reduces heat gain through the ceiling.
• In winter, it reduces heat loss from the rooms below.
• It helps limit sudden indoor-temperature changes.
• It can reduce the energy required for mechanical heating and cooling.

Actual energy savings vary according to the building, climate, appliances, occupancy and installation quality. For that reason, fixed percentage-saving promises should be treated with caution.

Thermal and Acoustic Performance

Aerolite Insulation is both thermal and acoustic insulation. Its fibrous structure absorbs sound energy and can help reduce sound transfer through the ceiling while improving general acoustic comfort.

The published NRC ratings increase with thickness: approximately 0.80 for 50mm, 1.00 for 100mm and 1.10 for 135mm. This makes the thicker products useful where sound absorption is an important consideration, including homes, offices, schools and other non-residential buildings.

However, Aerolite should not be sold as complete soundproofing. Effective soundproofing normally depends on an entire tested construction system, including the ceiling layers, framing, sealing and isolation of sound paths. Aerolite can make a valuable contribution to that system, but insulation alone cannot guarantee a soundproof room.

Fire Safety, SABS Mark and SANS Requirements

Aerolite Soft Touch is non-combustible and does not support the spread of flame. Its current A1 classification provides an important safety advantage for residential and non-residential ceiling applications. Non-combustible insulation contributes to fire-safe construction, although it does not make the complete roof or building fireproof.

The product also carries the SABS mark to SABS 1381 Part 1. These verified product properties are more meaningful than broad statements such as “SANS compliant” without naming the relevant standard.

SANS 10400-XA deals with energy efficiency in buildings and considers the required thermal performance of the complete roof assembly. Installing Aerolite can help a roof-and-ceiling system meet the required R-value, but the insulation product alone does not guarantee compliance. Climate zone, roof construction, ceiling material and installation all need to be considered.

Where Aerolite Insulation Can Be Used

Aerolite Insulation Soft Touch is designed primarily for ceiling-insulation applications, including:

• New residential homes.
• Retrofitting uninsulated homes.
• Topping up suitable existing ceiling insulation.
• Residential renovations and additions.
• Offices and suitable non-residential buildings.
• Ceiling spaces below tiled or metal roofs.

For wall cavities, specialised acoustic systems or industrial metal buildings, a purpose-designed Isover product may be more appropriate. Product selection should always match the construction and intended application.

Correct Aerolite Installation Matters

Even good insulation will underperform when it is compressed, installed with gaps or left incomplete around hard-to-reach parts of the ceiling. Aerolite should fit snugly between roof timbers and cover the ceiling area evenly without unnecessary compression.

Important installation points include:

• Measure the spacing between roof timbers before cutting.
• Cut the roll to fit snugly without bunching or compressing it.
• Cover the complete ceiling and minimise gaps between sections.
• Keep the insulation beneath electrical wiring where the installation allows.
• Treat recessed downlights and heat-producing fittings according to the fitting manufacturer’s safety requirements.
• Keep the product dry and correct roof leaks before installation.
• Use crawl boards and never place body weight directly on ceiling boards.

Because Aerolite is compression packed, it can take approximately 24–48 hours to recover fully after opening. Allowing it to return to its intended thickness helps it achieve the stated thermal performance.

Watch: How to Cut and Install Aerolite Insulation

Add the existing Aerolite installation video thumbnail here and link it to the YouTube video. The video should demonstrate how to measure roof-timber spacing, cut the roll cleanly and install it without leaving gaps or compressing the insulation.

For more detailed guidance, read our ceiling insulation installation guide.

Can Aerolite Insulation Be Installed Over Existing Insulation?

Aerolite can be used as top-up insulation when the existing material is dry, stable, safe and in serviceable condition. Isover specifically identifies 50mm Aerolite as a top-up option for homes that already contain insulation but need improved thermal performance.

The roof space should be inspected before adding a new layer. Wet, contaminated, badly damaged or pest-affected insulation may need to be removed rather than covered. Roof leaks, unsafe wiring and downlight-clearance problems should also be corrected first.

When two insulation layers are used, avoid compressing the material. The combined performance depends on both layers remaining at their intended thickness and being installed without major gaps.

Aerolite Compared With Other Ceiling Insulation

Aerolite is not the only suitable insulation available in South Africa. The best choice depends on the required R-value, fire performance, handling preference, roll coverage and total installed cost.

Before deciding, compare Aerolite vs Knauf insulation and Aerolite vs Isotherm insulation. These comparisons explain the differences between glasswool, mineral-wool and polyester options without relying on brand claims alone.

Nationwide Delivery and Cape Town Installation

Roof Insulations supplies Aerolite insulation for projects throughout South Africa. Delivery charges and available delivery methods depend on the order size and destination. Because insulation rolls are bulky, confirm access and delivery requirements before placing a large order.

Professional installation is available through Cape Ceilings & Drywalling in Cape Town and surrounding Western Cape areas. An experienced installation team can assess the roof space, determine the quantity required and install the insulation safely without avoidable gaps or compression.

If you require installation, visit our ceiling insulation installation service or request a quotation before ordering.

Why Buy Aerolite From Roof Insulations?

With more than 36 years of insulation experience, Roof Insulations can provide practical guidance based on the building and application—not simply sell the thickest or cheapest roll.

Customers benefit from:

• Genuine Aerolite Soft Touch insulation.
• Clear roll dimensions, coverage and R-values.
• 50mm, 100mm and 135mm options.
• Nationwide delivery.
• Professional Cape Town installation through our installation company.
• Experienced advice for homes, renovations and larger projects.

Select the required thickness above to view the current Aerolite insulation price and add the rolls to your basket. If you are uncertain about the correct thickness or quantity, contact us before ordering.

Aerolite Insulation Frequently Asked Questions

What is Aerolite insulation?

Aerolite Soft Touch is glasswool ceiling insulation manufactured by Isover. It reduces heat transfer through the ceiling and also provides useful acoustic absorption.

Which Aerolite Insulation thickness is best?

For most South African homes requiring new ceiling insulation, 135mm provides the best thermal performance in the standard range with a product R-value of 3.38. The correct choice still depends on the climate zone and complete roof system.

How much area does one Aerolite Ceiling Insulation roll cover?

A 50mm roll covers 12m², a 100mm roll covers 7.2m², and a 135mm roll covers 6m².

Is 50mm Aerolite Insulation suitable for new ceiling insulation?

The manufacturer primarily identifies 50mm Aerolite for topping up suitable existing insulation. It provides a lower R-value than the 100mm and 135mm products and is generally not the first choice when strong standalone thermal performance is required.

Does Aerolite Insulation help during both summer and winter?

Yes. It slows heat entering through the ceiling during hot weather and reduces heat loss during cold weather. This helps maintain more stable indoor temperatures throughout the year.

Is Aerolite fire resistant?

Aerolite is non-combustible and carries an A1 fire classification under the applicable current standard. It will not support the spread of flame, although no single insulation product makes an entire building fireproof.

Is Aerolite Insulation soundproofing?

Aerolite absorbs sound and can improve acoustic comfort, but it is not a complete soundproofing system. Proper soundproofing requires the insulation to form part of a correctly designed ceiling or wall assembly.

Does Aerolite comply with building regulations?

Aerolite carries the SABS mark to SABS 1381 Part 1 and can help a correctly designed roof-and-ceiling system achieve the thermal performance required under SANS 10400-XA. Compliance depends on the complete building system, not the insulation alone.

Can Aerolite be installed over old insulation?

Yes, provided the existing insulation is dry, safe and in serviceable condition. Damaged, wet or contaminated material should be assessed and may need to be removed before a new layer is installed.

Does Aerolite attract rodents or insects?

Aerolite is not a food source for pests. However, rodents can nest in almost any undisturbed roof material if they gain access, so roof entry points should be sealed.

How long does Aerolite last?

Aerolite is designed for a long service life and does not readily age under normal dry roof conditions. Its performance depends on it remaining dry, uncompressed and properly installed.

Can I install Aerolite Insulation myself?

It can be installed by a capable person with the correct tools, protective equipment and roof-space safety knowledge. Professional installation is recommended where access is difficult, wiring or recessed lights create risks, or regulatory compliance must be demonstrated.

Do you deliver and install Aerolite Insulation Rolls?

Roof Insulations offers nationwide product delivery. Professional installation is available through Cape Ceilings & Drywalling in Cape Town and surrounding Western Cape areas.