The Considerations Behind Your Thermal Insulation Material

The “perfect” thermal insulation material can only exist depending on your needs, as each set comes with its pros and cons.

 

Having a customer come to a conclusion on an insulation material requires meticulous consideration for a variety of parameters such as R-value, flammability, sound insulation, installation, and others which we will be outlining with today’s piece.

 

R-Value

The primary role of thermal insulation is to maintain a temperature differential between that which is being insulated and that which is not – the R-value measures this resistance. For example, higher resistances demonstrate a great tenacity to keep the indoors warm; better insulation is provided by materials with a higher R-value.

 

To provide context, prevalent insulation materials like cellulose, fiberglass, and open-cell spray foam have R-values measured between the ranges of 2.8 and 3.8, and satisfy most insulative needs. For more intensive insulation, polyurethane foam can demonstrate R-values higher than 6.

 

Flammability

Noncombustible and flame resistance properties are naturally a primary cause for concern within a building. However, ingenious engineering solutions have provided a suite of insulation options to mitigate combustible concerns. Some of the examples of this can be seen in the following materials:

 

• Fiberglass – an innately flameproof material composed of sand and recycled glass. While it may not combust, melting can occur should temperatures be high enough.

 

• Mineral wool – one of the oldest and most renowned fire retardant insulation types. This insulation is rated to endure temperatures above 1,000°C.

 

Soundproofing

It is natural for buildings to have unique tolerances when it comes to acceptable levels of ambient sound. Insulation has been designed with this in mind – for example, fiberglass, as demonstrated from its R-value, not only provides adequate thermal insulation, but can also reduce sound by up to 5dB.

 

In a similar fashion, mineral wool is renowned for its acoustic dampening capacity, with widespread usage in residential rooms. Contrary to these are foams which, while providing great thermal properties, make for poor soundproofing.

 

Ease of Installation

Let’s take a look over two conventional insulation materials commonly outfitted within establishments:

 

• Insulation batts – this type of insulation can be installed without the need for specialized equipment, making it a definite cost-effective solution. Caution is advised during outfitting - if it is not placed correctly between joists and studs then the insulation capacity will be compromised.

 

• Blow-in Insulation – a significantly more consistent insulation fitting can be achieved by using an insulation blowing machine, allowing for a compact fit around joists, studs, wires, and ducts. On top of this, higher R-values can be reached due to its packed nature. Insulation blowing machines work at maximal capacity when used in tandem with loose-fill insulation such as cellulose, fiberglass, and mineral wool.

 

Reputable Insulation Blowing Machines

We’ve dedicated ourselves to becoming experts in manufacturing air handling equipment, including insulation blowing machines, since 1975. Our vast array of tools, accessories, and machines provide you with turnkey solutions for your insulation needs; reach out to one of our consultant’s to learn more about our insulation blowing machines!