Recticel vs Celotex

Recticel and Celotex are two of the most trusted names in insulation, with both brands stocked nationwide. But it does beg the question, which one is better?

Whilst both brands offer very similar products, there is no direct answer to this as it depends on a few key factors, including your budget and application.

In this guide, we’ll compare Recticel and Celotex for the most common applications you would be using them for to help you make an informed decision for your project.

Brief Overview

Not everyone has the time to read a full blog, which is why we’ve put together a quick overview below, comparing Recticel and Celotex side by side.

Multipurpose Insulation: Recticel GP VS Celotex TB, GA and XR 
 

Both brands offer reliable multipurpose insulation; Recticel GP and Celotex TB, GA & XR (the difference between the Celotex range is thickness).

What is the best multipurpose insulation? 

Recticel and Celotex both offer reliable multipurpose insulation options; both are made from PIR foam with foil facings and achieve the same thermal performance. The difference between the two brands lies in their product offerings - if you require a solution for warm deck insulation applications, Recticel is the brand for you. 

If you’re choosing between Celotex and Recticel for multipurpose insulation, the difference will be in the cost and thickness.  Celotex is slightly cheaper and offers a thicker insulation board (XR4000 up to 200mm),whilst offering a near-identical performance. 

Cavity Walls: Recticel vs Celotex

When it comes to insulating cavity walls, both Recticel and Celotex offer very similar products for both partial-fill and full-fill applications. 

Partial-fill Cavity Walls: Eurowall vs CW4000

Which is better for partial-fill cavity walls?

Both Recticel and Celotex offer high-quality solutions for partial-fill cavity wall insulation, with identical thermal performance and composition. 

The difference comes down to budget and board thickness. If you’re on a tight budget, Celotex CW4000 will be the better option; however, if you need a slightly thinner board (less than 40mm),Recticel Eurowall will be the better option, with boards starting at 30mm thickness. 

Full-fill cavity walls - Eurowall+ vs Thermaclass Cavity Wall 21 
 

Waterproofing systems: Where Recticel stands tall

Celotex is not suitable for warm deck flat roof systems, but Recticel is. Recticel offers three different solutions: Powerdeck F, Eurodeck, and Powerdeck U. How do these compare?

Which is the best for waterproofing systems?

Choosing the best one depends entirely on your chosen waterproofing system. 

• Eurodeck is best for mechanically fixed systems.
• Powerdeck F is best for fully bonded single ply and liquid waterproofing systems.  
• Powerdeck U is best for bitumen-based flat roof systems, such as torch-on-felt.
   

Recticel vs Celotex - Which is cheaper?

When it comes to insulation, cost is often a major deciding factor. The amount you spend upfront could be the difference between staying on budget and needing to cut corners down the line.

When factoring in what’s cheapest, you need to look at both short and long-term costs.
 

Upfront costs - Price per Square Meter

Celotex typically ranges between £15-£30/m². 

Recticel typically ranges between £20-£35/m².

Long-term costs - Energy Efficiency & Savings

Both Celotex and Recticel boards offer similar thermal conductivity (typically 0.022 W/m·K),so the long-term energy savings will be nearly identical in most applications.

If you’re after a multi-purpose insulation, Celotex is usually the more budget-friendly choice. If you require a more specialist solution, i.e. for a warm decking solution, Recticel should be the only brand considered between the two.
 

Recticel vs Celotex - Which is right for your project?

The choice between Recticel and Celotex depends on your budget and needs. 

As we’ve previously discussed, the difference between Recticel and Celotex depends on your needs and budget. 

If you’re after a standard multipurpose insulation board, Celotex will allow you to save as much money as possible. If you’re insulating a waterproofing system, Recticel will be the better option.
 
Both brands are easy to install and help reduce thermal bridging, making them excellent choices for improving the energy efficiency and comfort of your home.

If you need any help with your insulation project, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us today. At UKFR, we’re a family-run business with extensive knowledge of insulation and flat roofing. We take pride in what we do, and here to help you with your project. Speak to us today.