Do I Need An Approved Installer? – Can I Just Ask? – Episode 7

When it comes to installing natural insulation systems, one question crops up again and again: Do I need an approved installer? It’s a fair question — especially given the rise of certified schemes and branded training programmes across the construction sector. But the answer isn’t quite as clear-cut as you might think.

If you’d rather hear Andy and Chris talk through the ideas in this article, you can watch Episode 7 of Can I Just Ask? below. 👇

Skill Over Certification

While some manufacturers maintain approved installer networks and offer training schemes, the reality is that a certificate alone doesn’t guarantee quality. In fact, some of the most successful installations we see come from builders or homeowners who have never attended a formal course, but who approach the work with curiosity, care, and a commitment to doing things properly.

As Chris and Andy discuss, technical ability matters far less than attention to detail. They’d rather see 30mm of insulation installed with absolute precision than 100mm slapped on poorly. That level of care doesn’t require a badge — it requires patience, a willingness to learn, and an understanding of the materials.

Learning Resources Are Readily Available

Thanks to platforms like Fibres Academy, there’s a wealth of guidance available for those who want to learn the right way to install natural materials. From in-depth videos to practical walkthroughs, the emphasis is on enabling anyone — whether a contractor or a first-time renovator — to get it right. Find out more here.👉 Fibres Academy – Learn. Certify. Build.

And let’s not forget: while natural building products might be unfamiliar to some, they still rely on common trade skills. Lime plasters still go on with a trowel. Wood fibre boards cut and fix just like timber. Airtight membranes are installed with the same care you’d give to any other critical detailing. There’s nothing mysterious here — just best practice.

When Certification Does Matter

That said, there are exceptions. Take our Nature Wall system, for example. Because this is a highly specific build-up with performance expectations, we do encourage those installing it to complete our online course. It ensures consistency and avoids the pitfalls that can come from guesswork or poor detailing. Find out more here.👉 NatureWall – Internal Wall Insulation – Back to Earth

For systems like this, a structured training path helps uphold performance and reliability. But even then, the key ingredient isn’t the certificate — it’s the installer’s attitude.

Conclusion: It’s All About Attitude

So, do you need an approved installer? Not always. In many cases, what matters more is whether the person on the tools is invested in doing a good job. The materials we work with are forgiving, the tools are familiar, and support is abundant. If you (or your installer) bring the right mindset, you’re more than halfway there.

Approved or not, quality starts with care.