Insul-Eight
About Insul-Eight

About

North West-based commercial HVAC and mechanical insulation specialists, delivering projects across the UK.

North West England cityscape at dusk
Our story

Company story

Founded in 2003 by Director Darren Hartley, Insul-Eight began as a specialist mechanical insulation contractor with a team of just four insulation installers, supported by an estimator and receptionist. From the beginning, the company built its reputation on quality workmanship, dependable service and long-term relationships with clients across the commercial and industrial sectors.

In 2004, Chris Bates joined the business as an insulation installer, spending more than a decade working on projects throughout the UK. This practical experience provided a detailed understanding of the trade, from the technical demands of installation to the realities of delivering work safely and efficiently on complex construction projects.

In 2016, Chris moved into his current management role, bringing that site-based knowledge into project planning, operations, client liaison and project delivery. That practical understanding continues to influence how Insul-Eight surveys, estimates, plans, manages and completes its work today.

As the business continued to grow, so did its commitment to developing talented people. In 2018, Robbie Atkinson joined Insul-Eight as a trainee estimator. Through training, dedication and practical experience, Robbie has developed into a valued member of the commercial team, supporting accurate estimating, responsive communication and dependable project planning.

In 2020, Mick Littler joined the management team, bringing extensive time-served industry knowledge and experience gained from managing major insulation projects across the UK. His experience further strengthened Insul-Eight's ability to manage technically demanding work safely, efficiently and professionally.

Ellie Gallagher-Worthington joined the estimating team in 2024 and has become a valued addition to the commercial department, supporting the estimating function and helping maintain the responsive and professional service that Insul-Eight's clients expect.

Today, Insul-Eight is an established specialist insulation contractor delivering commercial and industrial projects across the UK. The company is supported by more than 30 experienced insulation installers, providing a depth of practical knowledge and trade capability that is increasingly difficult to find within the industry.

Many of our installers have worked together for years, creating experienced teams that understand not only the technical requirements of mechanical insulation, but also the importance of safety, programme delivery, quality assurance, efficiency and professional conduct on every project.

From major healthcare developments and flagship education facilities to airport infrastructure, commercial developments and heritage restoration projects, Insul-Eight continues to operate according to the same principles on which the company was founded: qualified craftsmanship, professional delivery, lasting client relationships and an uncompromising commitment to quality.

More than twenty years on, our greatest asset remains the same as it was in 2003 — our people. Their experience, professionalism and commitment to delivering every project to the highest standard continue to define the Insul-Eight name.

What we stand for

Values

The principles that guide how we deliver every project.

Qualified Craftsmanship

TICA-approved installers, industry-recognised standards and experienced insulation professionals who understand the demands of commercial and industrial environments.

Right First Time

Meticulous planning, quality installation and rigorous attention to detail help minimise snagging, reduce delays and deliver work correctly the first time.

Professional Delivery

From surveys and estimating through to RAMS, labour planning, project management, quality assurance and handover, every stage is organised professionally to keep projects moving safely and efficiently.

Experience You Can Rely On

Our estimators, project managers, supervisors and installers bring decades of practical industry experience, giving clients confidence from initial enquiry through to final completion.

Our history

Milestones

Recent project milestones from across the UK.

2024

Manchester Metropolitan University — Science & Engineering Building

Delivered specialist mechanical insulation works within one of the UK's leading science and engineering education facilities.

2025

Manchester Airport — Terminal 2 Transformation

Successfully delivered specialist mechanical insulation works as part of the major redevelopment of Manchester Airport's Terminal 2.

2026

Manchester Royal Infirmary — Project Red

Mechanical insulation works delivered as part of the Project Red development at Manchester Royal Infirmary, with completion scheduled for August 2026.

2026 — Ongoing

Manchester Town Hall Restoration

Currently delivering specialist insulation works as part of the restoration of one of Manchester's most iconic Grade I listed landmarks.

Meet the team

Leadership

The people leading project delivery at Insul-Eight.

Darren Hartley, Director at Insul-Eight

Darren Hartley

Director

Chris Bates, Contracts Manager at Insul-Eight

Chris Bates

Contracts Manager

Robbie Atkinson, Lead Estimator at Insul-Eight

Robbie Atkinson

Lead Estimator

Mick Littler, Contracts Manager at Insul-Eight

Mick Littler

Contracts Manager

Ellie Gallagher-Worthington, Estimator at Insul-Eight

Ellie Gallagher-Worthington

Estimator

Get started

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