What Is Used For Thermal Insulation?

CONTENTS

• What is thermal insulation?
• What materials are used for thermal insulation?
• What makes each insulation material different?
• How is thermal insulation applied?
• Factors to consider when selecting the right material
• Frequently asked questions
• Get in touch

Various materials are utilised for thermal insulation, each with its own thermal conductivity and moisture resistance capabilities. Finding the right one for your home is integral for lower energy bills and personal comfort.

At ICE Thermal, we offer various thermal insulation installation services. We create a bespoke plan of action with you, where we conduct a site survey to understand the best material and area that can best accommodate it.

Read on to learn how different materials stand out due to their thermal conductivity, R-value, moisture resistance capabilities, and environmental impact.

What is thermal insulation?

When building and producing goods, thermal insulation is key for reducing the movement of heat between surfaces that are either touching or close enough to affect each other with their warmth.

Regulating temperature fluctuations boosts both the conservation of energy and the warmth of indoor spaces.

The essence of thermal insulation lies in its ability to maintain an optimal temperature inside structures regardless of external weather conditions. This reduces energy consumption for heating and cooling systems. 

Understanding what constitutes effective thermal insulation involves grasping concepts such as R-values - a measure of resistance to heat flow through a certain thickness - and factors like material composition and moisture resistance.

What materials are used for thermal insulation?

Traditional insulation materials

• Fibreglass stands out as a common choice for its ability to resist flames and reduce heat flow
• Cellulose, recycled paper products mainly, serves as an eco-friendly option. Its compact structure excels in preventing draughts.
• Mineral wool can refer to either rock wool or slag wool. Rock wool originates from basalt or diabase, while slag wool comes from a steel mill's by-product, offering strong fire resistance and soundproofing qualities.

Modern insulation materials

• Spray foam expands upon application, sealing gaps and providing high R-values per inch of thickness.
• The polystyrene family includes EPS (Expanded) and XPS (Extruded), known for their moisture resistance and thermal efficiency. These rigid foams fit perfectly in wall cavities, under floors, or roofs.
• Polyurethane foam has exceptional adhesive properties that contribute significantly to structural strength and superior insulation performance against heat loss or gain.

Natural insulation materials

Cotton batts offer a less irritating alternative to fibreglass but maintain similar insulative values. They are treated with boric acid for flame resistance and pest control purposes.

What makes each insulation material different?

Thermal conductivity

The ability of a material to conduct heat is linked to its thermal conductivity. Materials with low thermal conductivity are better insulators because they transfer less heat. 

For example, polyurethane foam has a significantly lower thermal conductivity unlike traditional materials like fibreglass. The variation in heat transmission is pivotal for energy conservation, affecting the expenses associated with heating and cooling structures profoundly.

R-value

The R-value measures the resistance of an insulation material to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating effectiveness.

Natural materials such as wool have varying R-values depending on density and moisture content but offer competitive insulation properties compared to synthetic options.

Moisture resistance

Different insulation materials react differently to moisture exposure. Fibreglass tends to retain moisture, which can reduce its insulating capability and potentially cause mould, whereas spray foam provides excellent moisture resistance alongside its high R-value.

Environmental impact

Sustainability considerations often guide the choice of insulation materials today. While mineral wool can be produced from recycled steel slag, making it relatively eco-friendly, natural fibres like hemp require minimal processing and have a smaller carbon footprint throughout their lifecycle.

How is thermal insulation applied?

Applying thermal insulation varies across different settings, whether in homes, commercial buildings, or specialised sectors. Depending on the materials and unique needs of every job, the method of installing thermal barriers shifts significantly.

Residential buildings

In residential homes, installing insulation involves thoroughly inspecting the current building layout to pinpoint where best to install it. Wall studs and loft floors will have materials like fibreglass or cellulose installed between them. 

For newer technologies such as spray foam, professionals apply the product directly onto walls and roofs from inside or outside, expanding to create a tight seal against heat transfer.

The choice of material depends on its insulating properties and factors like moisture resistance and environmental impact.

Commercial and industrial facilities

Larger-scale applications require robust solutions that cater to high demands for energy efficiency. Materials play a pivotal role, with mineral wool or polyurethane foams offering superior performance for areas needing strict temperature control. 

Application methods include spraying over large areas or fitting rigid panels into construction frameworks. By adopting this method, companies can align with regulatory requirements and nurture environmentally friendly processes.

Factors to consider when selecting the right material

Selecting the ideal thermal insulation requires a careful balance of factors. It is not just about picking any material; it is about making an informed choice that suits your specific needs.

Climate and location

The climate you live in can influence the type of insulation you should choose. Materials with higher R-values are preferable for colder climates as they provide better heat retention.

Materials that can provide adequate shielding from heat perform well in hotter climates, helping to create a comfortable indoor environment.

Different locations also have varying humidity levels, which can affect certain types of insulation more than others. Materials prone to absorbing moisture could lead to mould problems if used in damp areas without adequate protective measures.

Building structure and design

The shape of your building and structure significantly influences the insulating materials you should consider.

Complex designs might require flexible or spray-on options like spray foam for tight spaces and irregular surfaces. However, straightforward designs may benefit from traditional rolls or batts for easy installation.

Structural integrity is another consideration; heavier materials might not be viable for all buildings without risking damage over time due to additional weight stressors on framing components.

Contact thermal insulation specialists if you are unsure about the material you need for your home or company building. These experts can inspect your property and discover vulnerable areas in the structure to find the best material for you.

Frequently asked questions

Which material is used for thermal insulation?

Fiberglass, cellulose, and mineral wool are traditional picks. Modern choices include spray foam and polystyrene. Natural options like cotton and hemp also work.

What is used as a thermal insulator?

Diverse materials such as fibreglass, spray foam, and natural fibres like wool are effective thermal insulators.

What is the best thermal insulation?

Spray foam tops the list due to its high R-value and moisture resistance, making it super efficient at keeping heat in or out.

What is thermal insulation?

Thermal insulation stops heat transfer. For instance, fibreglass in walls keeps homes warm in winter and cool in summer.

Get in touch

At ICE Thermal, our thermal insulation installation services utilise various materials that best suit your property. Whether you require a new fitting or wish to replace old insulation, we can help.

To learn more about our thermal insulation services, contact our team today at 0203 376 4802 or [email protected]. We operate all year round, 24/7, with teams stationed nationwide so we can help you no matter where you are.