A campaign calling for an end to the use of non-UV resistant flexible foam insulation on externally located services has gained the backing of major industry bodies representing manufacturers, building engineering and refrigeration.
The ‘Proof is on the Roof’ campaign, launched in 2025 by refrigeration efficiency expert Lawrence Leask FInstR and Chris Ridge of the Thermal Insulation Contractors Association (TICA), is now backed by CEFEP, the European association representing FEF and PEF insulation manufacturers, the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) and the Institute of Refrigeration (IOR).
Leask and Ridge launched the campaign after Leask witnessed degraded refrigeration pipe insulation on nearly all of his TM44 inspections.
Lawrence Leask said: “Over several years of external pipework inspections, I’ve witnessed the environmental impact of using non-UV resistant pipe insulation materials on heat pumps. The energy losses we are incurring through incorrectly specified and installed thermal insulation is equivalent to that of a large power station.”
Chris Ridge, TICA’s Technical Director, added: “Thermal insulation of pipework is a genuine low hanging fruit for decarbonisation, but it is often no more than an afterthought. The sheer scale of energy losses resulting from poorly insulated pipework should not be ignored by our policymakers.”
While the majority of pipe insulation installations require a thermal insulation specialist, commercial air-to-air heat pump installations are usually insulated by the refrigeration contractor.
With competence frameworks for the refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump trades currently being developed, campaigners believe there is now an opportunity to address the knowledge gap around correctly specifying and installing thermal insulation.
Kevin Morrissey, Technical Director of BESA, said: “This is another excellent example of an easily rectified, widespread problem that would make a significant contribution to improving performance and reducing environmental harm.
“The solutions are there and the financial case is persuasive; we just need to work harder on raising awareness – and the best way to do that is for industry bodies to collaborate and support TICA with this timely campaign.”
The IOR also supports the campaign, stating: “The growth in heat pump installations presents a significant opportunity, but it also highlights the importance of getting installations right. The ‘Proof is on the Roof’ campaign has brought attention to an issue that can be easily resolved, and we are delighted to support the campaign in helping spread awareness of this simple and effective solution.”
Tom Merton, Technical Manager at CEFEP member Armacell, added: “The choice of insulation for external applications requires a greater focus on long-term exposure to sunlight, rain, frost and temperature cycling. UV and weather-resistant insulation help maintain thermal performance, condensation control and energy efficiency while reducing the risk of cracking, moisture ingress and premature replacement.”
The supporting associations are united in calling for better awareness across the market and say improvements can be made immediately using products and solutions that already exist.
Lawrence Leask FInstR said: “The products and solutions already exist, but the market knowledge is missing. It is therefore fantastic to see the leading manufacturers of flexible elastomeric foam products working together to address this issue. The big question is whether other key stakeholders, including Government and manufacturers of heat pump equipment, will step up and take this seriously? As always, the Proof will be on the Roof!”
