Wall Insulation
- A high percentage of people have wall insulation done in their homes because they are as useful as they are easy to source. Additionally, several wall insulation types – like insulation batts – all serve different purposes. However, when shopping, it is integral to know which one applies to a particular application. Visit ArchiPro to survey and find the perfect kind for the job!
Wall insulation, in essence, is the process of protecting property using specialized material by attaching or inserting it into the walls. Primarily, wall insulation aims to increase the environmental efficiency of an area by helping maintain a liveable temperature. Here is the general idea behind how insulation is installed:
About Wall Insulation
- A specialist drill cuts 25mm holes at 1m intervals in the outer wall of the house
- Pump material into the holes
- Once filled, all the holes are blocked off using a matching material
The insulation materials used depend on the space of the area and whether internal or external insulation is required.
Types Of Wall Insulation
To begin with, let’s get familiar with and understand the types of wall insulation:
Blanket Batts Insulation
Blanket insulation batts are one of the most widely used types of wall insulation. This is because they can fit within the standard width between attics rafters, wall studs, and floor beams.
R-values for standard fibreglass batts range from R-3.0 to R-3.9 per inch. R-values range from R-3.8 to R-4.4 for high-performance fibreglass batts and blankets.
Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam insulation is used to plug leaks and cracks for internal wall jobs. This process involves a wall cavity to be sprayed with liquid polyurethane, which hardens and expands into concrete foam.
Moreover, a pressure spray can be used as an alternative when insulating a wider area. Remember, there are two types of spray foam:
- Opened-cell
- Compressed closed-cell
The closed-cell variant has a maximum R-value amongst all the types of insulation: approximately R-6.4 per inch; however, it is also the most costly. In contrast, opened-cell insulation has an R-value of roughly R-3.8 per inch.
Cavity Wall Insulation
Cavity Wall Insulation is done by injecting any insulation material from the exterior. This is installed by:
- Drilling a hole in the outer walls of the house
- Injecting the insulation material
- Sealing the holes with cement
The most popular insulation materials for this application are polystyrene beads or mineral wools; however, polyurethane foam can also be used.
Blown-In Insulation
Blow in wall insulation is done by blowing a cardboard-like substance into the part of the house that needs to be insulated. Commonly used materials for this application include:
- Fibreglass
- Cellulose material
- Rock wool (such as cardboard or recycled newspapers)
Each of these adapts to fit practically any kind of position - even the most challenging impediments.
Furthermore, R-values usually range from R-2.3 for fibreglass to R-3.9 for denser cellulose in blown-in insulation.
Radiant Barriers Insulation
R-values do not assess the effectiveness of radiant or reflective barriers insulation since they act differently than the other insulation types.
Rather than reducing the heat flow in the house, reflective insulation reflects away heat from the indoors.
Since the attic is where most heat enters a home, property owners in warmer regions commonly install reflective barriers between rafters, joists, and beams.
Benefits Of Wall Insulation
Let’s dive into some of the top advantages of wall insulation!
Less Heat Loss
Among the most prevalent motivations for people to insulate the walls is to reduce heat loss.
During the colder season, acoustic insulation dramatically reduces the heat through the walls due to convection.
Since the heat is held between the bricklayers, it takes sufficient time to drop room temperatures.
Fewer Carbon Trails
Using electricity or gas to heat indoor spaces is a common occurrence. However, this practice often results in burning fossil fuels, aggressively affecting the atmosphere.
Hence, it is critical to go for roof and ceiling insulation and implement measures to reduce household energy consumption.
Lower Electricity Bills
Do not underestimate the impact of mineral wall insulation on overall energy expenditures. For example, it is possible to save $150-300 per year by drastically lowering energy usage for one night.
As a result, one can recoup the investment in a short period.
Mould Prevention
Mould is mainly caused by condensation, which can be avoided by using wall insulation. In addition, it will help block moisture from passing through the wall coverings because of mineral wall insulation – the primary ingredient for mould growth.
Hence, such underfloor insulation is vital for the maintenance of households.
Quick Installation
Insulating the walls is not invasive because it causes a minimal interruption. Therefore, it only invades the exterior walls and keeps the interior safe.
In all likelihood, the work can be completed in less than three to four hours.
Cost Of Wall Insulation
The overall expenditure on wall insulation is dependent on the insulating material chosen and the method chosen to install it.
In external wall insulation, finishing materials for cladding and facades are highly recommended. Plaster, wood, aluminium, or stone cladding can all be used.
Building Regulations To Consider
The following are some of the factors that should be considered before deciding to go for wall insulation:
- Insulation should only be done per the consent of the building, both retrospectively and during the construction process
- All insulation types should adhere to building consent and regulations
- Building compliance guides for insulating pipe ducts and vessels are also available
If you need assistance to find the right wall insulation for your home or office, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.