Comparison of insulation for walls

Maintaining adequate insulation in your house is essential to reducing energy expenses and preserving a cozy interior atmosphere. The insulation of walls is one of the most important features of insulation. Walls play a big role in a building’s envelope and have a big impact on how well a building performs thermally. To assist you in making an informed choice for your house, we will examine the various kinds of wall insulation that are available and compare their cost, effectiveness, and other aspects in this post.

Batt insulation is one of the most popular kinds of wall insulation; it is usually composed of mineral wool or fiberglass. Batt insulation is a popular option for many homeowners because it is reasonably simple to install and comes in pre-cut panels or rolls. Its density and thickness determine how well it provides thermal resistance. But sometimes batt insulation might not fit perfectly, leaving gaps that could affect how well it works.

However, since spray foam insulation fills every nook and cranny in the wall cavity, it provides a more complete solution. When applied, this kind of insulation expands, effectively stopping air leaks and offering excellent thermal resistance. Although spray foam insulation typically costs more up front than batt insulation, over time, its durability and energy-saving advantages frequently offset this cost.

Rigid foam board insulation, which is available in panels composed of polystyrene, polyurethane, or polyisocyanurate, is an additional choice for wall insulation. These panels are strong and lightweight, and they cut easily to accommodate around obstructions in the wall cavity. Because of its strong moisture and heat resistance, rigid foam board insulation can be used in a variety of climates. To stop damage from UV rays or pests, additional protective measures might be necessary.

Another option for wall insulation is reflective insulation, which is made of materials with foil faces that are intended to reflect radiant heat. The effectiveness of reflective insulation in reducing heat transfer through walls is dependent on both proper installation and sufficient air sealing. Furthermore, in colder climates where conductive heat transfer is more important, it might not offer enough insulation.

Your climate, your spending limit, and your unique insulation requirements are all important considerations when selecting the proper insulation for your walls. You can make sure that your house stays cozy and energy-efficient for many years to come by assessing the benefits and drawbacks of each type of insulation and, if necessary, seeking professional advice.

Review of inexpensive thermal insulation materials and their description

1. Thermal insulation of glass water.

Glass combat, sand, dolomites, and soda are used to make glass wool. Since its fiber insulation is longer than that of basalt, it is more elastic and can return to its original structure more quickly and effectively. It undergoes three compressions while being packed. +450 °C is the maximum temperature for use. The non-combustibility of glass water insulation for walls is one of its best features. It shrinks in size when a steady flame enters it, but the fire cannot spread farther.

Benefits of glass wool insulation include:

• long life (subject to installation technology and rules of use);
• vapor permeable;
• does not support the growth of mold and fungi, and insects and rodents do not live in it;
• Thanks to the elastic structure, it does not provide shrinkage throughout the entire service life.

There is absolutely no chance of condensation on the walls because glass water thermal insulation has the ability to remove moisture from the air on its own. It can be used for both wood frame and brick private home insulation. It is important to keep in mind that installing inexpensive heat insulation made of fiberglass requires the use of personal protective equipment. Due to the fact that it releases a lot of dust after being transported, unpacked, and laid out. You will experience coughing and skin irritation if you ignore these precautions.

Thermal conductivity coefficients of glass wool and basalt insulation are the same. For wall insulation, thermal insulation in the form of plates should be purchased, since it is more difficult to lay rolls on the wall and over time they will begin to sag. To install the plates, the construction of the frame is required. The distance between the bars in it is made the same as the width of the plates (most often 60 cm). If the insulation for walls is mounted outside the private house, then it is closed by a windproof membrane. This is necessary so that its fibers are not blown by the wind, and atmospheric precipitation does not fall. If the plates are installed from the inside on the walls, then they are closed with vapor barrier. Thanks to her, the insulation will not pull moisture from the room, and the moisture that is in it will be able to go out.

Because glass wool is made using a glass fight, it is a cheap form of thermal insulation. However, the insulation of businesses that manufacture their products entirely from natural materials (quartz sand) will cost a lot more.

2. Mineral wool made of basalt.

By melting the ore of gabbro-basalt rocks, stone cotton wool is created. Basalt mineral wool is resistant to the effects of high temperatures—more than +800 °C—because of this manufacturing technology. As a result, it can be used to thermally insulate areas that are always heated, like fireplaces and stoves. It prevents the fire from spreading further and, unlike glassy insulation, does not deform when exposed to fire (refers to plates).

Basalt mineral wool carries moisture well, much like glass wool. Compared to foam, it has a vapor permissive indicator ten times higher. Professional builders’ reviews indicate that it performs better than other thermal insulations that are appropriate for insulating private homes made of wood. However, its disadvantage is also its feature. The stove must be thrown out if water spills onto it. Its thermal insulation properties are greatly diminished even after drying.

Actually a practical, lawful method of saving. This is something that everyone should be aware of!

A high number of air-filled voids between fibers provides a good thermal conductivity coefficient. The effect vanishes if they are adhered. As a result, it cannot be utilized in high humidity environments, such as basements, foundations, and the like. Although not as cheap as glass wool, this wall insulation is slightly more expensive. The least expensive basalt thermal insulation is Izovol, Izoroc, and Greenguard. Basalt mineral wool necessitates the installation of a vapor barrier or windproof layer, just like glass wool.

Benefits of basalt thermal insulation include:

• does not rot and does not shrink;
• Holds air noises well;
• service life for more than 30 years;
• incombustible.

Wearing personal protective equipment is necessary when working with basalt insulation because it attracts dust. Only store unpacked material under a canopy and send it in a covered vehicle. It is best to use this type of thermal insulation to warm the walls outside the room if the mineral wool contains phenol or formaldehyde.

The foam composed of polystyrene and polyethylene.

Foamed polystyrene is known as polistyle foam. One of the least expensive types of insulation is foam. It conducts heat three times less than mineral wool and has a very low coefficient of thermal conductivity. all because every one of its cells is empty and filled with gas or air. The foam itself makes up only 2% of the total mass; the remaining 98% is made up of air.

However, polystyrene foam has a higher degree of fire hazard G4, in contrast to mineral watches. The degree drops to G1 if antipypees are added to it and carbon dioxide is found in the cells. In any event, he detects a significant amount of black smoke during combustion, which is harmful to both the environment and human health. Since foam is completely vapor permeable, it cannot be used to insulate wooden structures or aerated or foam concrete. However, since umbrella-dowels and adhesive composition are used for installation, the frame need not be equipped.

Foam polymers are made of foamed polymers. It is frequently utilized with a foil side for wall insulation. This allows heat to be reflected back into the space, resulting in a significant reduction in the heat conductivity coefficient. most frequently produced in rolls. For easier installation, polyethylene foam is available with a self-adhesive side.

The cost of insulation

The density, size, and raw materials used in the production of the material all affect how much thermal insulation costs. The price of a heater increases with its density because more resources were needed to make it.

A price table showing the range at which you can purchase an affordable heater made of various materials:

Comparison of thermal insulation of wall materials

The thermal insulation of different wall materials can be compared using a number of key attributes.

The main characteristics of thermal insulation materials

The ability to conduct heat. Your insulation costs will go down as the thermal conductivity goes down because less insulation is needed in the layer.

Wetness permeability. The detrimental impact of moisture on the insulation during subsequent operation is lessened by lower moisture permeability.

Safety from fire. The substance should possess the ability to self-substitute rather than continue to burn and release poisonous pairs.

Finance. Insulation should be within the financial means of a large number of customers.

Resilience. The longer the insulation is used, the less it will cost the user to operate and the less often it will need to be replaced or repaired.

Friendliness toward the environment. Environmentally friendly and safe materials for the environment and human health should be used for thermal insulation. This attribute holds significance for residential properties.

The material’s thickness. The living area of the room will be less "to eat" the thinner the insulation.

The material’s weight. After installation, the insulated structure will weigh less due to the insulation’s reduced weight.

Insulating against sound. Residential properties are better shielded from street noise by higher sound insulation levels.

Ease of installation. It’s critical that fans fix the house themselves at this crucial moment.

Comparison of the characteristics of popular heater

Foam (polystyrene foam)

Because it is inexpensive and simple to install, this insulation is the most widely used.

Polystyrene is foamed to create foam, which is easy to cut with a knife, has a very low heat conductivity, is resistant to humidity, and is convenient to install. There is a higher demand for insulation in different rooms because of its low cost. Toxic substances are released into the atmosphere during combustion, and the material is also highly brittle. In non-residential rooms, foam is the preferred material to use.

Penopropulex (extruded polystyrene foam)

The insulation is highly durable, easy to use, and resistant to moisture and decay. It can be easily cut with a knife. The slabs are not exposed, have a high resistance to compression, and have low water absorption, which causes only slight variations in the material’s thermal conductivity under high humidity conditions. This makes it possible to warm the strip foundation and blind area using extruded polystyrene foam. The foam is long-lasting, user-friendly, and fireproof.

Basalt cotton wool

The material is composed of melted basalt rocks that have been mixed with other ingredients to create a fibrous structure that is water-repellent. Because basalt wool is not compacted during operation, its characteristics do not alter over time. In addition to being environmentally friendly and fireproof, the material has good soundproofing and thermal insulation indicators. utilized for insulation both indoors and outdoors. For wet rooms, an extra vapor barrier is needed.

Mineral wool

Using specialized technology, minvata is created from natural materials such as rocks, slag, and dolomite. The mineral is completely safe, fireproof, and has a low heat conductivity. Low moisture resistance is one of the insulation’s drawbacks, necessitating the installation of an additional moisture-vapor barrier when using it. The material should not be used in wet areas such as steam rooms, bathtubs, or pre-Banniks, nor should it be used in homes or foundations for basement insulation.

Penophol, isolon (foil insulator made of polyethylene)

Multiple layers of foamed polyethylene, each with a different thickness and a porous structure, make up the insulation. The material is made in rolls and sheets and frequently contains a foil layer for a reflective effect. The insulation is made of a very light, thin, and convenient material that is several millimeters thick—ten times thinner than regular insulation—yet it still reflects up to 97% of thermal energy. used to waterproof the building and insulate it against heat. has an extended service life and is unable to identify dangerous substances.

The first one is the coefficient of thermal conductivity, denoted by the "lambda" (γ) symbol. If the medium’s temperatures on both surfaces differ by 10 °C, this coefficient indicates how much heat will pass through a piece of material with a thickness of 1 meter and an area of 1 m² in an hour.

Any insulation’s thermal conductivity coefficient indicators are dependent on a number of variables, including the material’s moisture content, steamability, heat capacity, porosity, and other properties.

Sensitivity to moisture

The amount of moisture in thermal insulation is called humidity. Since water conducts heat perfectly, its saturated surface will contribute to the room’s emission. As a result, thermal insulation material that is overlaid will become less effective and lose its original properties. In the opposite case, the more water-repellent an item is, the better.

A measure that is comparable to humidity is vapor permeability. When the temperature of the medium remains constant and there is a 1Pa differential in the steam’s potential pressure, the volume of water vapor that passes through 1 m2 of insulation in an hour is expressed numerically.

It is possible to moisten the material due to its high vapor permeability. In this regard, applying a vapor barrier coating is advised when heating the house’s walls and floors.

Water absorption is the product’s capacity to absorb water upon contact with a liquid. For materials used to set up external thermal insulation, the water absorption coefficient is crucial. A decline in the material’s properties can be caused by elevated air humidity, atmospheric precipitation, and dew.

Additionally, it is not advised to decorate bathrooms, kitchens, or other areas with high moisture content with water-absorbing insulation.

Density and heat capacity

Porosity is the proportion of air pores in the product as a percentage of its overall volume. Differentiate between the big and small, closed and open pores. It is crucial that they are dispersed equally throughout the material’s structure, as this speaks to the product’s quality. While porosity can occasionally reach 50%, it can also range from 90 to 98% in some cellular plastic types.

One of the properties that influences a material’s mass is its density. Both of these parameters will be ascertained with the aid of a unique table. You can determine how much the load on the house’s walls or its overlap will increase by knowing the density.

Heat capacity is a measure of the amount of heat that is prepared to build up in thermal insulation. The ability of a material to withstand biological factors, such as pathogenic flora, is known as bio-resistance. Fire resistance is the ability to combat fire insulation; it should not be confused with fire safety. Additional attributes that set them apart are their strength, bending endurance, resistance to frost, and resistance to wear.

Resistance coefficient

Additionally, you must be aware of the coefficient U, or the heat transfer structure’s resistance, when doing computations. It is important to understand this indicator in order to choose wisely among different heaters, even though it has nothing to do with the characteristics of the materials themselves. The ratio of the heat flow volume through the insulation to the temperature differential on either side is known as the coefficient U. A table with the thermal conductivity of the building materials calculated is necessary in order to determine the heat resistance of the walls and ceilings.

You are able to perform the required computations on your own. This is accomplished by dividing the material’s thickness by its thermal conductivity coefficient. If we are discussing insulation, the final parameter ought to be mentioned on the material’s packaging. When it comes to the building components of the house, things get a little trickier. While the thickness of each can be determined on its own, the coefficient of thermal conductivity of brick, wood, or concrete needs to be found in specialist manuals.

Since the heat conductivity coefficient for each plane must be determined independently, materials of different types are frequently used in this situation to insulate the walls, ceiling, and floor of a single room.

Thermal conductivity of the main types of insulation

You can determine the ideal type of thermal insulation to use and the ideal thickness for a material layer based on the coefficient U. The density, vapor permeability, and thermal conductivity of common heaters are shown in the table below:

Advantages and disadvantages of various thermal insulation

Thermal insulation should be selected with consideration for factors like cost, durability, ease of installation, and additional maintenance requirements in addition to its physical characteristics.

Comparison of the most modern options

Polyurethane foam and other foams that are applied to the processed surface in the form of foam are the easiest to install, as demonstrated by experience. Since these materials are plastic, they fit into the voids in the building’s walls with ease. Foamed materials have the drawback that their spraying requires specialized equipment.

The polyurethane foam is extruded, as the table above illustrates. This material comes in solid block form, but it can be shaped into any shape using a regular carpenter’s knife. The primary advantage of foam over blocks is that it doesn’t form seams when comparing the properties of the two types of polymers.

Comparison of cotton materials

While mineral wool "breathes" and doesn’t burn, it is comparable to polystyrene and polystyrene foam. Additionally, it is more stable under the effects of moisture and essentially maintains its properties while in use. When choosing between mineral wool and solid polymers, it is preferable to choose the latter.

Although it costs more, stone cotton wool has similar properties to the mineral. Ecowata is reasonably priced, simple to install, but it sags with time and has a low compression strength. In addition to sagging, the fiberglass crumbles.

Fanding and organic materials

Bulk materials like paper granules and perlite are occasionally used to insulate a house against heat. They are resistant to pathogenic factors and repel water. Perlite does not burn and does not settle, making it environmentally friendly. Bulk materials, however, are rarely utilized for wall insulation; instead, it is preferable to equip floors and overlap with their assistance.

It’s important to differentiate cork coating, wood fiber, and flax from organic materials. They are not harmful to the environment, but if they are not saturated with certain materials, they can burn easily. Furthermore, biological factors are exposed to wood fiber.

Polyurethane foam, foams, and mineral wool are generally the best materials for decorating walls and ceilings when considering the cost, practicality, thermal conductivity, and durability of insulation. Since the remaining forms of isolation are intended for non-standard circumstances, they have unique characteristics. It is advised to use such heaters only in dire circumstances.

Comparison of insulation for walls

Wall warmers are made of low-temperature conducting materials that are intended to concentrate and retain heat indoors. More insulation is frequently required for walls, doors, windows, and balconies in order to keep a home or apartment warm and cozy on chilly days. It is best to get ready for the cold in advance, so don’t put off installing wall insulation.

The most widely used materials for noise absorption and wall insulation in homes are foam and foam. They are affordable and useful.

What justifies the use of insulation in a home’s walls?

1. It will smooth out the temperature difference from the outer and inside.
2. War insulation is able to protect materials from getting wet.
3. The correct and high -quality installation of the insulation for walls will achieve additional sound insulation.
4. The insulation established properly will save heat in the room without a greenhouse effect.

As you can see, the insulation has a very high level of functionality. But the question of which insulation is superior cannot be answered categorically.

Every individual selects the option that best suits his requirements and abilities.

Insulation scheme for the facade.

What criteria, then, are involved in the selection of wall insulation for a home?

• type of construction;
• type of building material;
• climate features;
• installation method (from the inner or outer side of the walls).

Furthermore, features of the insulation itself like these:

• coefficient of thermal conductivity;
• strength, durability;
• density;
• moisture resistance;
• elasticity;
• fire resistance;
• environmental friendliness (health safety);
• vapor permeability.

You can choose the best wall heater by comparing different models and using the information you have been given.

The insulation you choose for your walls is very important when it comes to keeping your home warm and energy-efficient. We examine the benefits and drawbacks of different materials and methods in our thorough comparison of wall insulation options to assist you in making an informed choice. We consider aspects like cost, ease of installation, energy efficiency, and environmental impact when evaluating insulation options, ranging from more modern options like foam board and spray foam to more conventional options like fiberglass and cellulose. Our guide will help you make the best decision for your unique needs, whether you’re looking for maximum insulation performance, affordability, or eco-friendliness. This will ensure your home stays warmer and more sustainable for many years to come.

The choice of insulation for external wall insulation

Scheme for external insulation.

The best method for warming a room is thought to be through wall insulation coming from the exterior of the house. If you do not wish to decrease the living area, this is also the most sensible choice. The following are the most typical exterior walls:

• Minvata;
• glass wool;
• polystyrene or polystyrene foam;
• foam glass;
• mineral wool slabs.

Think about the benefits and drawbacks of this insulation.

Minvata and glass wool

Glassy wall insulation scheme.

Basalt or similar rocks are used in the production of mineral wool, which is used as insulation. Benefits

• Minvat has low thermal conductivity;
• Due to its elasticity, it can easily be installed;
• This material does not burn, and when interacting with fire does not emit harmful substances and smoke. From a fire safety point of view, this is the right choice.

However, there are still drawbacks:

• Minvata does not have a high degree of moisture resistance, therefore, under the influence of dampness, the sagging of the meterial observes over time, which is also determined by the low degree of rigidity of this material;
• Despite the fact that many call Minvat “artificial moss”, the environmental friendliness of this material remains in question. Many doctors consider the use of such material for wall insulation with a source of diseases of the respiratory system.

Mineral wool wall insulation scheme.

Material used for manufacturing glass wools – quartz sand. Thermal conductivity of this insulation is slightly lower than that of mineral wool. But the glass wool has the highest vibration resistance, and its use will avoid additional sound insulation. Glass wool has the same disadvantages as mineral wool, but its safety for human health is controversial. As a rule, glass wool is used mainly at industrial enterprises. If you decide to opt for any of the described materials, you should know that the so-called rolled heater for the walls has appeared, which is made of mineral wool or glass wool. For many, this is the most affordable way to warm the walls of the house, since it does not require special material costs and is convenient when carrying out installation work.

Foam or polystyrene foam

Foam for wall insulation scheme.

This material is made by foaming polystyrene, as the name suggests. The aforementioned insulation is highly favored by people who wish to warm their homes because of its following benefits:

• At the moment, polystyrene is the most environmentally friendly insulation for walls;
• By 98%, it consists of air, which, as we know from physics, is a poor heat conductor. Hence a very high degree of thermal insulation of this material;
• not subject to deformation under the influence of temperatures: retains its structure from -180 ° C to +80 ° C;
• The degree of durability is quite high (even in the Far North, it will last at least 50 years);
• Thanks to the easy weight of polystyrene foam, you will avoid difficulties in transporting and installing this material;
• Foam is easily attached to any material;
• A significant advantage for many is the relatively low price of this insulation.

In addition to the benefits mentioned above, the foam has a few drawbacks:

• Low vapor permeability – if you use such a heater for the walls of a wooden house, you must be prepared that with unreasonable installation, moisture accumulation can lead to rotting of wood. But there is an opportunity to avoid this by creating a good ventilation system;
• It has a high degree of combustibility, therefore, when used for fire safety, it is best to install a belt from completely non -combustible materials, for example, a foam glass, for a certain distance.

Foam glass for extra -cheap insulation

This insulation has the same chemical makeup as regular glass. Benefits

• This material is completely environmentally friendly;
• He is not at all afraid of rodents, mold and fungi;
• has a zero degree of water absorption and moisture permeability;
• The foam glass is perfectly attached to brick, concrete and slag block. In addition, the temperature coefficients of the expansion of these materials coincide with the parameters of the foam glass. In this regard, where frost resistance is needed, foam glass is the best option for external wall insulation.

This material’s drawbacks include transportation and installation challenges as well as, crucially, an expensive cost.

Mineral wool slabs

The reason this insulation for external wall insulation of the house becomes so popular is that it doesn’t burn, keeps you completely soundproof, and works in all kinds of weather. All of these benefits come with the insulation. Warming the walls of an apartment building or panel house is a common use for this option.

Fiberglass insulation	Cellulose insulation
Commonly used	Environmentally friendly option made from recycled paper products

Selecting the appropriate insulation material for your home’s walls can have a big impact on both comfort and energy efficiency. We’ve looked at a number of alternatives in this comparison, such as spray foam insulation, foam board, and fiberglass.

Because fiberglass insulation is inexpensive and efficient at preventing heat transfer, it is a popular option. It provides respectable thermal resistance and is reasonably simple to install. But because fiberglass absorbs moisture and eventually loses its insulating qualities, it might not be the best choice for high moisture areas.

Conversely, foam board insulation offers superior moisture and thermal resistance, making it appropriate for moist areas like basements. Its inflexible design gives walls additional structural support. Foam board insulation, however, can cost more than fiberglass insulation and may need to be installed by a professional.

The best air sealing qualities are provided by spray foam insulation, which also has the highest level of thermal resistance and successfully seals wall gaps and cracks. It forms a seamless barrier against heat transfer and adapts to irregular shapes. Although spray foam insulation has many advantages, installation can be expensive and necessitate specific tools and knowledge.

Finally, a number of factors, including your budget, the amount of moisture in your home, and the desired level of insulation, will determine the type of insulation you choose for the walls. For areas that are prone to moisture, foam board insulation is the best choice, but fiberglass insulation is a more affordable option for moderate climates. Despite being more expensive, spray foam insulation might be your best option if you want the highest level of airtightness and energy efficiency. To identify the best insulation choice for your unique requirements, think about speaking with an expert.

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