Roof insulation has a direct impact on your energy bill and living comfort. You lose less heat in the winter and keep the heat out in the summer. Whether you live in an old or new house, insulating your roof is always a smart move. In this article, you will read exactly what you need to know about subsidies, costs, and various methods.
Roof insulation subsidy 2025
In 2025, you can make use of the ISDE subsidy scheme for roof insulation. You will receive a minimum of €16.25 per square meter of insulated roof surface. If you combine the insulation with a second energy-saving measure, such as floor insulation or solar panels, the subsidy doubles.
There is also an extra bonus of €1.25 per square meter available for nature-friendly insulation. This includes protecting nesting sites for birds or bats during insulation.
The application is processed through the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO). Take into account conditions such as a minimum surface area of 20 m².
Interior roof insulation
Insulating from the inside of the roof is a practical choice if the roof covering is still in good condition and you do not want a major renovation. With this method, the insulation material is placed on the inside of the roof decking.
It is important that a vapor barrier is installed. Without this membrane, moisture can accumulate behind the insulation material, leading to mold growth or wood rot.
This method is relatively inexpensive and quick to carry out, but you do lose some space on the inside of your attic or loft.
Exterior roof insulation
With external insulation, also known as a 'sarking roof', the material is placed on top of the roof decking. This is particularly suitable for renovations where the roof covering is being replaced anyway.
This approach prevents thermal bridges and ensures a uniform insulation layer across the entire roof. You retain the interior space, and the roof is often made airtight immediately. This significantly increases your home's energy performance.
Although the costs are higher than for interior insulation, this method also yields greater comfort and savings.
Roof insulation costs
The costs depend heavily on the chosen method and the condition of the current roof. An indication:
Interior: €20 – €50 per m²
Exterior: €70 – €100 per m²
For an 80 m² roof, this means an investment between €1,600 and €8,000. Thanks to the subsidy, you can get back a substantial part of that amount. Moreover, good roof insulation results in annual savings of hundreds of euros on your energy bill.
Flat roof insulation
For flat roofs, external insulation is usually the best option. This method, the 'warm roof', keeps the load-bearing structure warm, thereby limiting temperature fluctuations.
The insulation material is placed on top of the existing roof structure and then covered with a new waterproof layer. This ensures a longer lifespan for the roof and prevents moisture problems from the inside.
Insulation on the inside of a flat roof, the 'cold roof', is rarely used. The risk of condensation is greater, which can cause damage to the roof.
Roof insulation for pitched roofs
A pitched roof can be insulated from both the inside and the outside. The choice depends mainly on the condition of the roof and your budget.
Interior: fast and affordable, but you sacrifice some space.
Exterior: higher investment, but better insulation value and more comfort.
When planning a roof renovation, external insulation is almost always worthwhile. You combine two interventions into one and benefit maximally from subsidies and energy savings.
Curious if your home is suitable for roof insulation?
Curious if your home is suitable for roof insulation?
Unsure whether your roof is suitable for interior or exterior insulation? Have it checked without obligation. Request a free roof inspection by a specialist from Smienk Dakwerken today. This way, you will know exactly what is possible, what it costs, and how much you can save.
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