Description

The range of insulation materials available has grown in recent years. When you’re looking for higher performance, what products are available and how do you choose what to specify?

Manufacturers responded to the recently hiked Building Code H1 requirements by introducing products with much higher R-values – up to R7.0 or R8.0 for glass fibre ceiling insulation.

New (or new to Aotearoa New Zealand) products are also available or are being researched made from materials ranging from expanded foams to wood fibre and even hemp. The thermal insulation market is highly competitive.

Scope

This article covers:

• Bulk insulation materials
  • Glass fibre/glass wool
  • Polyester
  • Wool and wool blends
  • Rockwool/mineral wool
• Seeing double
  • Rigid foams
  • Wood fibre
• Embodied emissions
• Selection issues
• Good installation crucial for performance