What is the name of the insulation? Types of insulation and their characteristics - how to choose the right thermal insulation material? Extruded polystyrene foam: properties and characteristics


The issue of building insulation is especially relevant today. On the one side, big problems There is no problem with purchasing thermal insulation material - the construction market offers many options. On the other hand, it is this diversity that gives rise to the problem - which insulation to choose?

What it is?

The problem of thermal insulation of modern buildings (especially urban new buildings) is especially acute today. Thermal insulation is a design element that allows you to reduce the heat transfer rates of materials and the structure (unit) as a whole.

Thermal insulation also refers to a process that prevents the thermal energy of a structure from mixing ( refrigeration equipment, heating mains, etc.) and buildings with the external environment.

In other words, the thermal insulation layer has the effect of a thermos.

Thermal insulation ensures a comfortable indoor climate, keeping it warm during the cold season and protecting it from excessive heating on hot days.

Using insulation, you can reduce electricity costs by up to 30-40%. In addition, most modern thermal insulation materials have soundproofing properties. A fairly common practice in the construction of a private house is the use of materials that are both insulating and structural elements of walls and ceilings.

  • Depending on thermal conductivity, the following classes of thermal insulation materials are distinguished: class A
  • – materials with low thermal conductivity within 0.06 W/m kV. and below; class B
  • – materials with average thermal conductivity, the values ​​of which are 0.06 – 0.115 W/m kV; class C

– materials with high thermal conductivity equal to 0.115 -0.175 W/m kV.

  • There are many ways to install insulation, but they all belong to one of these technologies: Monolithic wall
  • – is a brick or wooden partition, the thickness of which for thermal efficiency must be at least 40 cm (depending on the region).- a method in which the insulation is located inside the wall, between the external and external partitions. The implementation of this method is possible only at the construction stage or when facing the facade with brickwork (if the strength of the foundation allows or there is a separate foundation for the masonry).

  • External insulation- one of the most popular methods due to its effectiveness, which involves covering external walls with insulation, after which they are covered with facade materials. The organization of a ventilated façade, when between a wall with insulation and facade finishing an air gap is maintained. The method necessarily involves the use of vapor-permeable and waterproof coatings and films.
  • Internal insulation- one of the most complex and less effective methods of insulation compared to external ones. It involves insulating surfaces from inside the building.

Characteristics

All types of insulation are characterized by certain properties. The common ones are the following:

  • Low thermal conductivity. Thermal efficiency indicators are the main ones when choosing insulation. The lower the thermal conductivity coefficient (measured in W/ (m×K) shows the amount of thermal energy passing through 1 m3 of dry insulation at a temperature difference of 10C), the less heat loss the material has. Polyurethane foam is considered the warmest, having a thermal conductivity coefficient of 0.03. Average values ​​are about 0.047 (thermal conductivity index of polystyrene foam, mineral wool brand P-75).
  • Hygroscopicity. That is, the ability of insulation to absorb moisture. High-quality insulation does not absorb moisture or absorbs a minimal amount of it. Otherwise, wetting of the material cannot be avoided, which means loss of the main property (thermal efficiency).
  • Vapor barrier. The ability to transmit water vapor, thereby ensuring an optimal level of humidity in the room and keeping walls or other work surfaces dry.

  • Fire resistance. Another important characteristic of thermal insulation material is resistance to fire. Some materials have a high fire hazard, their combustion temperature can reach 1000 degrees (for example, basalt wool), while others are extremely unstable to high temperatures (expanded polystyrene). Modern insulation materials are mostly self-extinguishing materials. Appearance open fire on their surface is almost impossible, and if it does occur, the burning time does not exceed 10 seconds. During combustion, no toxins are released; the mass of the material during combustion is reduced by at least 50%.

When talking about fire resistance, combustion toxicity is usually mentioned. The optimal material is one that, even when heated, does not emit dangerous toxic compounds.

  • Environmentally friendly. Environmental safety is especially important for materials used indoors. The key to environmental friendliness is usually the naturalness of the composition. For example, basalt insulation, which is considered safe from an environmental point of view, is made from processed rocks, expanded clay is made from sintered clay.
  • Soundproofing characteristics. Not all thermal insulation materials can be used for sound insulation. However, most of them have both of these properties, for example, mineral wool insulation, polyurethane foam. But the widely used polystyrene foam does not provide sound insulation.
  • Biostability. Another criterion important for the buyer is biostability, that is, the material’s resistance to mold, mildew, and the appearance of other microorganisms and rodents. The strength and integrity of the material, and therefore its durability, directly depends on biostability.

  • Resistant to deformation. The insulation must withstand loads, since it can be located on the surface of the floor, loaded structural elements, between partitions. All this dictates the requirements for its resistance to loads and deformations. Durability largely depends on the density and thickness of the material.
  • Durability. The service life largely depends on the thermal efficiency, moisture resistance, vapor permeability and biostability of the material. Quality products (for example, polyurethane foam, basalt wool) are given a fairly long guarantee, up to 50 years. Another factor of durability is compliance with installation technology and operating conditions.

  • Easy to lay and install. Most insulation materials have a convenient release form - in mats, rolls, sheets. Some of them are easily fixed on the insulated surface, without requiring special skills and equipment (foam sheets), while others require compliance with certain installation conditions (for example, when working with mineral wool insulation, it is necessary to protect the respiratory system and hands).

There are also types of insulation, the installation of which is possible only by specialists who have special equipment (for example, polyurethane foam is sprayed with a special unit, the employee must use a protective suit, goggles and a respirator).

Types of jobs

Thermal insulation is understood as the process of reducing heat loss to calculated values ​​(individual for each region and objects). This term is similar to the concept of “thermal insulation”, which means protecting an object from the negative exchange of thermal energy with air environment. In other words, The task of thermal insulation work is to maintain the specified temperature parameters of the object.

The object may include residential and administrative buildings, industrial and engineering structures, medical and refrigeration equipment.

If we talk about thermal insulation of residential and industrial premises, then it can be external (another name is facade insulation) and internal.

Insulation of external walls of residential buildings is always preferable to thermal insulation internal parts. This is due to the fact that external thermal insulation is more effective; internal insulation always leaves 8-15% of heat loss.

In addition, the “dew point” during internal insulation shifts inside the insulation, which is fraught with dampness, an increase in the level of humidity in the room, the appearance of mold on the walls, destruction of the wall surface, finishing. In other words, the room is still cold (since damp insulation cannot prevent heat loss), but damp.

Finally, installing insulation from the inside takes up space, reducing usable area premises.

At the same time, there are situations when internal thermal insulation remains the only possible way to normalize the temperature. Strict adherence to installation technologies allows you to avoid the unpleasant consequences of thermal insulation. Be sure to take care of vapor and waterproofing of surfaces, as well as high-quality ventilation. A standard supply system is usually not enough; it is necessary to install a forced air circulation system or use windows with special valves that provide air exchange.

To increase the efficiency of external insulation, they resort to organizing a ventilated facade system or a three-layer system. In the first case, an air gap is maintained between the insulation and the facing material mounted on a special frame. The three-layer system consists of wall coverings constructed using the well method, between which insulation (expanded clay, perlite, ecowool) is poured.

As for finishing, both a “wet” (building mixtures are used) and a “dry” facade (fastening elements are used) facade can be insulated.

Often a room requires not only insulation, but also sound insulation. In this case, it is more convenient to use materials that have both heat and sound insulation properties.

When talking about insulating a house inside or outside, it is important to understand that walls are far from the only source of heat loss. In this regard, it is necessary to insulate unheated attics and basements

. When using an attic, you should consider a multi-layer insulated roofing system.

When carrying out internal thermal insulation work, great attention should be paid to the joints between the floor and wall, wall and ceiling, wall and partitions.

It is in these places that “cold bridges” most often form.

In other words, regardless of the type of work performed, it is important to remember that thermal insulation requires an integrated approach.

  • Variety of materials All insulation materials, depending on the raw materials used, are divided into:
  • organic

(have an environmentally friendly composition - waste from agricultural and woodworking industries, the presence of cement and some types of polymers is acceptable);

inorganic.

  • There are also products of mixed type. Depending on the principle of operation, insulation materials are: reflective type– reduces heat consumption by directing
  • thermal energy back to the room (for this, the insulation is equipped with a metallized or foil element);

warning type

– characterized by low thermal conductivity, preventing a large amount of thermal energy from escaping beyond the insulated surface.

Let's take a closer look at the most popular types of organic insulation:

Ecowool

The material is poured into the spaces between the walls; it can be sprayed onto flat surfaces using a dry or wet method.

Jute

A modern substitute for tow, traditionally used to reduce heat loss from inter-crown cracks in timber buildings. Available in the form of tapes or ropes, in addition to high thermal efficiency, it does not require replacement even after the walls shrink.

Chipboard

Insulation, 80-90% consisting of small chips. The remaining components are resins, fire retardants, water repellents. It has not only good heat but also sound insulation properties, is environmentally friendly, and durable.

Despite treatment with water repellents, it still does not have high wet strength.

Cork

Thermal insulator based on cork oak bark, produced in the form of rolls or sheets. It is used only as internal insulation. Serves as a base for wallpaper, laminate and other floor coverings. It can be used as an independent finishing coating due to its unusual but noble appearance. They often insulate panel houses from the inside.

In addition to thermal efficiency, it provides sound insulation and decorative effect. The material is hygroscopic, so it can only be mounted on dry surfaces.

Arbolit

It is made of wood-chip concrete blocks. Thanks to the wood in the composition, it has heat and sound insulating abilities, while the presence of concrete ensures moisture resistance, damage resistance and strength of the material. It is used both as insulation and as independent building blocks. It is widely used as a material for frame-panel buildings.

The modern market of inorganic thermal insulation materials is somewhat wider:

Expanded polystyrene

There are 2 known modifications of it: foamed (otherwise known as polystyrene foam) and extruded. It is a set of united bubbles filled with air. The material undergoing extrusion is distinguished by the fact that each air cavity is isolated from the neighboring one.

Polystyrene foam is suitable for outdoor and internal insulation, characterized by high thermal insulation performance.

In general, the material is affordable, lightweight, easy to cut and install (glue). To suit the needs of the buyer, plates of material are produced in various sizes and thicknesses. The latter directly affects thermal conductivity.

At first glance, polystyrene foam is a worthy insulation option. However, it should be remembered that during operation it releases toxic styrene. The most dangerous thing is that the material is subject to combustion. Moreover, the fire quickly engulfs the foam, and as temperatures rise, compounds hazardous to human health are released. This became the reason for the ban on the use of polystyrene foam for finishing residential premises in some European countries.

Polystyrene foam is not durable. Already 5-7 years after its use, destructive changes in the structure are detected - cracks and cavities appear. Naturally, even minor damage causes significant heat loss.

Finally, this material is quite loved by mice - they chew it, which is also not conducive to long-term use.

Extruded polystyrene foam is an improved version of polystyrene foam. And, although its thermal conductivity is slightly higher, the material demonstrates better indicators of moisture strength and fire resistance.

Polyurethane foam

Thermal insulating material sprayed on the surface. It has the best thermal efficiency indicators, thanks to the installation method it forms a homogeneous sealed layer on the surface, filling all cracks and seams. This becomes a guarantee of the absence of “cold bridges”.

During the spraying process, the material releases toxic components, so it is applied only in a protective suit and a respirator.

As it hardens, toxins evaporate, so during operation the material demonstrates complete environmental safety.

Another advantage is non-flammability; even when exposed to high temperatures, the material does not emit hazardous compounds.

Disadvantages include low vapor permeability values, which is why the material is not even recommended for use on wooden bases.

This method of application does not allow achieving a perfectly flat surface, so the use of contact finishing (painting, plastering) is almost always excluded. Leveling (as well as removing a layer of polyurethane foam) is a rather complex and time-consuming process. The solution would be to use hanging structures.

Universal insulation based on foamed polyethylene. The air chambers from which the material is formed provide low thermal conductivity. The main difference between penofol is the presence of a foil layer on one side, which reflects up to 97% of thermal energy without heating up.

In addition to high thermal insulation values, it demonstrates sound insulation properties. Finally, it does not require the use of vapor barrier or waterproof coatings and is easy to install.

The disadvantage is the higher cost, but this is offset by the impressive heat resistance of the product. Its use allows you to reduce heating costs by a third.

Despite the strength of the material, it is not intended for wallpapering or applying plaster over it. Penofol will not withstand the load and will collapse, so the walls treated with it are covered with plasterboard. The final finishing is carried out already on it. It can act as insulation not only for walls, but also for ceilings and floors.

Penofol is an excellent substrate for most floor coverings, as well as underfloor heating systems.

Fiberboards

It is a wood-based slab bonded with cement. Typically used for exterior decoration, they can act as an independent building material.

They are characterized by heat and sound insulation properties, but have considerable weight (strengthening the foundation and supporting structures is necessary), as well as low moisture resistance.

Liquid ceramic insulation

Relatively new insulating material. Outwardly, it resembles acrylic paint (it is applied in the same way, by the way), which contains vacuumized bubbles. Thanks to them, a thermal insulation effect becomes possible (according to manufacturers, a layer of 1 mm replaces brickwork one and a half bricks thick).

Ceramic insulation does not require a subsequent layer of finishing and copes well with the function of also a finishing material.

It is used mainly indoors, since it does not take up useful space.

The moisture-resistant layer extends the service life of the coating and makes it possible to clean it wet. The material is fire-resistant, non-flammable, and moreover, it prevents the spread of flame.

Mineral wool insulation

This type of insulation is distinguished by a fibrous structure - the material consists of fibers arranged in a chaotic manner. Air bubbles accumulate between the latter, the presence of which provides a heat-insulating effect. Thanks to the ability to easily restore and retain its shape, the material is easy to transport and store– it is rolled up and packed into compact boxes, and then easily takes on the desired shape and size. The sheet material is usually thinner than other options.

Tile is usually used as a façade covering. Wall panels, siding, corrugated board for external cladding and lining or plasterboard (as cladding) for internal.

When working, you must ensure that you have a respirator. During installation, particles of material are released into the air. Once in the lungs, they irritate the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract.

Depending on the raw materials used, there are 3 types of mineral wool - based on slag, glass and basalt fibers.

The first type of insulation has high thermal conductivity and the ability to absorb moisture, it is flammable and short-lived, and therefore is rarely used for insulation.

Fiberglass exhibits the best thermal insulation characteristics, combustion temperature is 500 degrees.

The material does not burn, but decreases in volume under the influence of temperatures above those specified.

The material, as described by users, is bioresistant and has an affordable price. Due to its elasticity, it is suitable for finishing buildings and structures of complex shapes and configurations. Among the disadvantages are low water resistance (high-quality waterproofing is required), the ability to release toxic compounds (because of this, it is used mainly for external insulation or requires reliable protection).

Thin and long fibers of glass wool dig under the skin, causing irritation. Finally, having an amorphous component (glass), glass wool shrinks, gradually thinning during use, which causes a decrease in thermal insulation properties. Basalt wool is obtained by melting rocks (basalt, dolomite).

Fibers are drawn from semi-liquid raw materials, which are then pressed and briefly heated. The result is a durable, vapor-permeable insulation with low thermal conductivity.

Stone wool is treated with special impregnations, making it resistant to moisture. This is an environmentally friendly, non-flammable material with a wide range of applications.

Warm plaster

It has good adhesion, fills cracks and joints, and takes the desired shape. Performs 2 functions at once - thermal insulation and decorative. Depending on the place of use, it can be on cement (for exterior decoration) or gypsum (for interior decoration) basics.

Foam glass

The material is based on recycled glass, which is fired in high-temperature furnaces to a sintering state. The result is insulation characterized by moisture resistance, high fire safety and biostability.

Possessing record strength indicators among other insulation materials, the material is easy to cut, install, and plaster. Release form: blocks.

Vermiculite

It is a bulk insulation on a natural basis (processed rocks - mica). They are distinguished by fire resistance (melting point - at least 1000 degrees), vapor permeability and moisture resistance, do not deform and do not settle during operation. Even when wet up to 15% it is able to maintain its thermal insulation properties.

It is poured into spaces between walls or onto flat surfaces (for example, an attic) for thermal insulation. Considering the high cost of vermiculite, such a method of insulation will not be cheap, so it can often be found as part of warm plasters. This way it is possible to reduce the cost of raw materials for thermal insulation, but without losing the brilliant technical properties of the material.

Expanded clay

Bulk insulation, known since ancient times. It is based on special clay, which is sintered during high-temperature firing. The result is extremely light “pebbles” (as well as crushed stone and sand) with high thermal insulation qualities. The material does not deform, is bioresistant, but is extremely hygroscopic.

Expanded polystyrene granules

The same air capsules that form the basis of polystyrene foam boards. True, here they are not fastened together and are supplied in bags. They have the same characteristics as polystyrene foam boards - low thermal conductivity, light weight, high fire hazard, lack of vapor permeability.

To insulate, the material should not be poured into voids, but sprayed using a compressor. This is the only way to increase the density of the material, and therefore increase its insulating ability.

Penoizol

Outwardly it looks like small flakes (the material has a finer fraction compared to polystyrene foam granules, it is softer). The basis is natural resins. The main advantages are low thermal conductivity, moisture resistance and vapor permeability, fire resistance. Usually used for walls and ceilings, which are sprayed using special equipment.

Manufacturers

Today there are a large number of thermal insulation materials on the market. Choosing the best products is not easy, especially if you are not at all familiar with the brands offered.

However, there are manufacturers whose products are a priori of high quality. Among these is the Danish stone wool manufacturer Rockwool. The product line is quite wide - many materials different forms release, dimensions and density. The most popular is 10 cm cotton wool for exterior finishing.

Among the most famous lines:

  • "Light Batts"– material for insulation of private wooden houses;
  • "Light Batts Scandik"– material for insulation of private houses made of stone, concrete, brick;
  • "Acustik Batts"– a material with improved sound insulation properties, used for insulation of administrative buildings, shopping and entertainment establishments, and industrial facilities.

The rating of manufacturers of mineral wool materials is also invariably topped by the French company Isover. In the product line you can find a fairly rigid material that is laid on flat horizontal surfaces and does not require fasteners, as well as two-layer façade analogues. In demand universal insulation, options for pitched roof, as well as mats with improved sound insulation characteristics.

Most of the products are supplied in 7 and 14 meter rolls, the thickness of which is 5-10 cm.

High-quality heat- and, at the same time, sound-proofing materials are produced under the brand name Ursa. The following types of insulation can be found on sale:

  • "Ursa Geo" a series of mats and rolls of varying hardness for thermal insulation of all areas of the house, including basements and attics;
  • "Ursa Tetra"– slabs characterized by high strength and the presence of additional hydrophobic impregnation;
  • "Ursa Pure One"– soft fiberglass, the binding component of which is acrylic. Due to the environmental friendliness of the material, it is suitable for use in hospitals and children's institutions;
  • "Ursa XPS" is a polystyrene foam board of increased rigidity.

The well-known German quality is demonstrated by German-made Knauf products. The entire variety of manufactured products can be attributed to one of the series - “Knauf Insulation” (materials for professional insulation of multi-storey residential buildings, hospitals, administrative institutions) or “Knauf Heat” (materials for insulation of private houses).

Great solution for organizing a ventilated façade, brand insulation materials are considered Izovol. The plates have sufficient rigidity to withstand loads, have a moisture-resistant impregnation, and are additionally reinforced with fiberglass. The most popular are the following product lines:

  • general technical thermal insulation (universal insulation for the attic and roof, walls, floor);
  • technological cylinders and mats with a moisture-resistant foil layer for pipeline insulation;
  • slab insulation for the manufacture of sandwich panels;
  • heat-insulating mats with improved sound insulation properties.

The leading domestic manufacturer of insulation materials is the TechnoNIKOL company. The main direction of production is the production of basalt wool and polystyrene foam insulation. The material does not deform, can withstand heavy loads, and has increased sound insulation properties.

Depending on the type of product, the density and thermal conductivity of the material changes. The following types of TechnoNIKOL products are distinguished:

  • "Rocklight"– slabs that have increased strength characteristics and are intended for insulation of a private house;
  • "Technoblock"– a material suitable for the installation of facades acts simultaneously as a structural element and insulation;

  • "Heat roll"– elongated mats rectangular shape with a reduced content of phenol in the composition;
  • "Technoacoustic"– a heat insulator with improved sound insulation performance (reduces noise by up to 60 dB), used for sound insulation of offices and entertainment venues.

A worthy place in the ranking of manufacturers of insulation materials is occupied by the Belarusian company Beltep. The products are only slightly inferior in quality to their European counterparts, but have a more affordable price. Among the advantages are special hydrophobic impregnation and increased sound insulation qualities.

If you are looking for high-quality and relatively environmentally friendly polystyrene foam, then you should pay attention to the brand’s products "Europlex". The manufacturer's product line includes both foamed and extruded polystyrene foam. The density of the material ranges from 30 to 45 kg/m³ depending on the type of product.

There are several size options for the buyer to choose from. Thus, the length of the products can be 240, 180 and 120 cm, width - 50 or 60 cm, thickness - 3-5 cm.

Great strength Extruded polystyrene foam also has higher wet strength properties. "Penoplex". The experiments carried out demonstrate the frost resistance of the material. Even after 1000 freezing/defrosting cycles, the thermal efficiency of the material decreases by no more than 5%.

As you know, foam styrene is the cheapest insulation, and since both companies are domestic, we can talk about significant savings.

How to choose?

When choosing a thermal insulation material, it is important to focus on the material from which the walls or other surfaces to be insulated are made.

  • For wooden walls, related cellulose insulation, fiberglass or rock wool are suitable. True, it is necessary to carefully consider the waterproofing system. Jute will help close the crown gaps. For frame-panel buildings, you can use fiber cement slabs or wood concrete blocks, which will act as structural elements of the walls. Between them you can fill up loose insulation materials (expanded clay, ecowool).
  • Foam insulation and mineral wool insulation are well suited for external insulation. When facing such buildings with brick, it is permissible to pour expanded clay, perlite, and ecowool into the space formed between the facade and the main wall. Polyurethane foam has proven itself well.

  • For internal insulation of brick buildings, mineral wool insulation is traditionally used, which is covered with plasterboard sheets.
  • Concrete surfaces, which have the worst thermal insulation properties, are recommended to be insulated on both sides - external and internal. For external insulation, it is better to choose a ventilated facade system. Warm plaster or hanging panels or siding are suitable as finishing materials. For interior decoration, you can use cork insulation, a thin layer of polystyrene foam or mineral wool, decorated with plasterboard.

How to calculate?

Different insulation materials have different thicknesses, and it is very important to calculate the required insulation parameters before making a purchase. A layer of insulation that is too thin will not cope with heat loss and will also cause the “dew point” to shift inside the room.

An excess layer will not only lead to an unjustified load on the load-bearing structures and an unreasonable financial expense, but will also cause a violation of the air humidity in the room and a temperature imbalance between different rooms.

To calculate the required thickness of the material, it is necessary to establish the resistance coefficient of all materials used (insulation, waterproofing, facing layer, etc.).

Another important point is determining the material from which the wall is made, since this also directly affects the thickness of the insulation.

Considering the type of wall material, conclusions can be drawn about its thermal conductivity and thermal properties. These characteristics can be found in SNiP 2-3-79.

The density of thermal insulation material can be different, but most often products with a density in the range of 0.6-1000 kg/m3 are used.

Most modern high-rise buildings are built from concrete blocks, which have the following (important for calculating the thickness of insulation) indicators:

  • GSOP (calculated in degree-days in heating season) – 6000.
  • Heat transfer resistance – from 3.5 S/m kV. /W (walls), from 6 S/m kV. /W (ceiling).

To bring the heat transfer resistance indicators for walls and ceilings to the appropriate parameters (3.5 and 6 S/m kV./W), you need to use the formulas:

  • walls: R=3.5-R walls;
  • ceiling: R=6-R ceiling.

Once the difference is found, the required insulation thickness can be calculated. The formula p = R*k will help with this, in which p will be the desired thickness indicator, k is the thermal conductivity coefficient of the insulation used. If the result is not a round (integer) number, then it should be rounded up.

If independent calculations using formulas seem quite complicated to you, you can use special calculators. They take into account all important counting criteria. The user only needs to fill in the required fields.

It is best to use those calculators that are created by reputable manufacturers of thermal insulation materials. Thus, the calculator developed by the Rockwool brand is considered one of the most accurate.

  • Modern mineral wool insulation is supplied in rolls, mats and sheets. The last 2 delivery options are preferable because they are easier to join without forming gaps and cracks.
  • During installation slab insulation make sure their width is 1.5-2 cm more distance between subsystem profiles. Otherwise, there will be a gap between the heat insulator and the profile, which risks turning into a “cold bridge”.
  • Insulation, which will be preceded by diagnostics, will be much more effective and efficient. To carry this out, use a thermal imager to identify the main areas of heat leakage. This recommendation becomes relevant especially when insulating the internal parts of a building.

  • Having identified the main points of heat loss (usually the corners of buildings, the floor or ceiling on the first and last floors, end walls), sometimes it is enough to insulate only them in order to achieve the optimal temperature in the room.
  • Regardless of the insulation method and the material used, the surface should be carefully prepared - it should be smooth and clean. All existing joints and cracks should be sealed with cement mortar, uneven surfaces should be removed, and communication elements should be removed.
  • The final stage preparatory work will apply primer in 2-3 layers. It will provide an antiseptic effect and also improve surface adhesion.

  • When using lathing made of metal profiles, make sure that they have an anti-corrosion coating. Wooden logs for the frame are also subject to treatment with fire retardants and water repellents.
  • Mineral wool and felt insulation is laid in several layers. The coincidence of joints between layers of different layers is unacceptable.
  • Most glued insulation (expanded polystyrene, mineral wool) require additional fixation with dowels. The latter are attached in the center of the insulating sheet, as well as at 2-3 points along the edges.

  • Despite the similarity of liquid ceramics to paint, it cannot be applied with a spray gun or similar devices. In this way, you can damage the ceramic shell, which means depriving the composition of its heat-insulating properties. It is more correct to apply the mixture with a brush or roller.
  • If necessary, the ceramic insulation can be diluted with acrylic paint to give the treated surface a certain shade. The composition must be applied in 4-5 layers, waiting for each coating to dry.
  • Fixing the cork covering can only be done on perfectly flat surfaces, otherwise a “cold bridge” will form in the space between the covering and the wall and condensation will begin to accumulate. If it is impossible to level the walls by plastering, install a solid plasterboard frame onto which a “cork” is glued. To attach it, you need special glue.

When using polystyrene foam, it is important to thoroughly clean the surface of the walls from traces old paint, solvents. It is important to avoid contact of the insulation with gasoline and acetone, since they dissolve polystyrene foam.

Each part of the building needs its own insulation.

  • For sloping roof High density basalt slabs are recommended. You can also use polystyrene foam boards, but in this case it is important to ensure high-quality ventilation. If installation speed is important, spray polyurethane foam; a cheaper option is ecowool. The layer thickness is usually 100 mm.
  • For an unheated attic you can use expanded clay or other bulk materials. A more affordable option is dry sawdust mixed with slaked lime in a ratio of 8: 2. Perlite granules, ecowool or slab insulation are also suitable. The layer thickness when using bulk materials must be at least 200 mm; for slab insulation, 100 mm is sufficient.

  • Wall insulation More often it is produced using polystyrene foam, mineral wool, polyurethane foam spraying or ecowool. You should choose them based on the structural features and your own financial capabilities. The most affordable will be polystyrene foam, more expensive options are mineral wool and polyurethane foam.
  • Floor insulation– the question is ambiguous. In a house with a low underground floor, it is more logical to carry out thermal insulation along the ground using bulk materials. Expanded polystyrene is suitable for a concrete screed; if the height of the ceilings allows, you can fill in expanded clay (for insulation with expanded polystyrene, a layer thickness of 50 mm is sufficient, while when using expanded clay - at least 200 mm). Any material is suitable as insulation between the joists. The technology is similar to attic insulation.
  • For foundation and plinth Polyurethane foam and polystyrene foam are applicable. An important nuance is that both materials are destroyed under the influence of sunlight, which must be taken into account when insulating the base.

At any temperature, thermal insulation will not hurt. If implemented correctly, the rooms will become noticeably warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Insulating walls allows you to create a comfortable microclimate, which applies not only to residential apartments and houses, but also to work spaces. By visiting the store, you can see that modern manufacturers offer a wide range of thermal insulation for sale. It comes in the form of strands, rolls, granules, powders, and perlite sand. In addition, thermal insulation can be represented by slabs, blocks, bricks and cylinders.

If you understand the characteristics, you can choose the insulation option that is necessary. The main property of thermal insulation is its thermal conductivity; it indicates how much heat passes through a given material. Today, two types of thermal insulation are known:

The first type allows you to reduce heat consumption, which is ensured by a decrease in infrared radiation. Preventative thermal insulation is used in most cases and involves the use of insulation with low thermal conductivity. The following materials can be used in this capacity:

Organic based thermal insulation

When considering the types of insulation, you should pay attention to those that are made on an organic basis. They are widely represented on modern market, and for their production natural raw materials are used, such as waste from woodworking and agricultural industries. The composition of such insulation includes cement and plastic.

The material is highly resistant to fire, it does not react to biological influences and does not get wet. It is used where the surface does not heat above 150 °C. Organic insulation is used as an inner layer in the construction of multilayer structures. This includes plastered facades or triple panels.

Characteristics of arbolite insulation

Organic-based thermal insulation is precisely arbolite insulation, which is a new building material made from:

There are chemical elements and cement. The additives are:

  • soluble glass;
  • alumina sulfate;
  • calcium chloride.

At the final stage of manufacturing arbolite thermal insulation, the material is treated with a mineralizer. This type of insulation has a density ranging from 500 to 700 kg/m3. The compressive strength reaches 3.5 MPa. The thermal conductivity coefficient is 0.12 W/(m K) maximum. It is also important to know the bending strength, it reaches 1 MPa.

Purpose and use of wood concrete

When considering the type of insulation described above, you should become more familiar with its purpose. It is used for the construction of partitions and walls in private low-rise construction. Products can be presented:

  • floor slabs;
  • panels;
  • blocks.

The former are used to insulate floors and roofs. As for the floor slabs, they are reinforced with reinforced concrete structures. For monolithic construction, wood concrete mortar is used. Today, another type of this insulation is known - bone concrete, the filler of which is hemp fire.

Arbolite blocks for thermal insulation are laid after applying a layer of the mixture for installation. Next, the block is installed, which should first be moistened with water. The product is pressed against the previous one, its position can be adjusted relative to the main masonry using a hammer with a rubber attachment. Excess mixture will need to be removed with a trowel. Work can only be carried out at an air temperature of at least +6 °C. The solution should be quite thick, because if its consistency turns out to be liquid, the material will shrink.

Characteristics of chipboard insulation

When considering the types of insulation, it is worth paying attention to thermal insulation made from chipboard, which is based on small shavings. It makes up 9/10 of the volume of the material, but the rest is an antiseptic substance, synthetic resins, a water repellent and antiprene. The density of this material is 1000 kg/m3 maximum. The minimum value is 500.

You may also be interested in humidity; for this thermal insulation it varies from 5 to 12%. The tensile strength reaches 0.5 MPa. Material absorption reaches 30% of the volume. The minimum value is 5%. You may also be interested in the tensile strength, it reaches 0.5 MPa.

Characteristics of polyurethane foam

Before choosing one solution or another, you should consider the types and characteristics of insulation. Among other options, polyurethane foam thermal insulation, which is based on polyester, should be highlighted. The ingredients are added:

The components, under the influence of the catalyst, enter into a chemical reaction, and a new substance appears. It has a high level of noise absorption, is not afraid of moisture and is chemically inert. Polyurethane foam thermal insulation is an excellent insulation material, because it is applied by spraying, so the craftsman has the opportunity to process ceilings and walls with complex configurations. Cold bridges are excluded.

This sprayed insulation has a density that reaches 80 kg/m3. When this figure reaches 50 kg/m3, polyurethane foam becomes moisture resistant. You may also be interested in the thermal conductivity coefficient, it reaches 0.028 W/(m K). This parameter is the best among modern thermal insulation materials.

Purpose of polyurethane foam

Polyurethane foam has unique properties, thanks to which it is widely used in various fields of human activity. This thermal insulation is used for insulation of internal and external walls, window openings, etc. This material can be found on construction sites of permanent residential buildings, cottages, individual houses, warehouse hangars, potato storages and vegetable storages.

This sprayed insulation has quite important advantages, which are expressed in load-bearing and heat-insulating abilities. Efficiency increases when polyurethane foam forms the basis of sandwich panels used in the construction of prefabricated civil structures. The latter may also have industrial purposes. The cold resistance of the material is quite high, as is its waterproofing ability.

Characteristics of fiberboard

When choosing insulation for your home, you should pay attention to fiberboard, which is thin and narrow wood shavings called wood wool. Cement or a magnesite component is added to them, which ultimately makes it possible to obtain fiberboard. It is offered for sale in the form of slabs.

The material is resistant to biological and chemical influences, provides excellent noise protection and can be used in wet conditions, such as swimming pools. This home insulation has a density reaching 500 kg/m3. The fire resistance of thermal insulation is quite high. The thermal conductivity coefficient is 0.1 W/(m K).

Purpose and use of fiberboard

Fiberboard is used for thermal insulation of coatings and walls, and structural - for frame walls, partitions and ceilings, but only in dry conditions. Today, the main use of fiberboard is in the installation of permanent formwork during construction.

The slabs are not removed, according to the principle of some other types of formwork, they perform a constructive function and become a component of the wall or ceiling. As for the features of use, the slabs are installed parallel at a certain distance, which will determine the thickness of the wall. After fastening, the foundation is filled with mortar, most often concrete. Then the system of liquid mixture and formwork is left until it hardens.

Characteristics of ecowool

Ecowool is made from waste from paper and cardboard production. If you use waste paper for this, the material will not be of such high quality. It will become dirty faster, and will also be heterogeneous. Among other important characteristics, sound insulation should be highlighted, which in this case is very high. A layer 1.5 cm thick will absorb 9 dB of extraneous noise.

The thermal insulation ability is also impressive, but the downside is that it decreases during operation. Over time, ecowool loses up to 1/5 of its volume. It absorbs moisture well, this parameter can reach 15% of the volume. When laying using the continuous spraying method, there are no seams, which is a definite advantage.

Purpose and use of ecowool

The coating is widely used for sound and thermal insulation of various premises, which can have industrial, residential and public purposes. The material can be used for thermal insulation of facades, insulation of walls, roofs and attics. Mostly the work is carried out using the dry blowing method, but the material can be applied over existing insulation.

This roof insulation provides a seamless coating that solves the problem of icicles. Blowing involves the use of a special installation in which the cotton wool is loosened in a hopper and then fed through a hose with a nozzle. This method of application allows the material to penetrate into hard-to-reach areas, closing all cracks and gaps.

Cellulose roof insulation can be used during repair work of existing facilities and during the construction of new ones. Open blowing is used to insulate horizontal and inclined surfaces, among them the following should be highlighted:

Inorganic heat insulators: mineral wool

Mineral wool can be stone or slag. To produce the latter, slags formed during the casting of non-ferrous and ferrous metals are used. Stone wool is based on rocks, and a component based on phenol or urea is used to bind them. The first one is most suitable, because mineral wool in this case is less afraid of water than the one containing urea. The flammability of this material is zero.

It is able to resist the spread of fire, so it can be used as a means of fire protection. Chemical passivity is high, but hygroscopicity is low. The material is characterized by excellent sound absorption, so mineral wool is used very often as a sound insulator.

Some characteristics and purpose of insulation from the manufacturer "Rockwool"

When choosing Rockwool insulation, you will need to understand its varieties. Among others, LIGHT BUTTS SCANDIC should be highlighted. This material represents the best product in its class. It has a new level of quality and is used for private housing construction.

The price per square meter ranges from 81.59 to 244.72 rubles. The cost varies depending on the size of the slabs. In the first case, the product parameters are 800 x 600 x 50 mm, while in the second they are 1200 x 600 x 150 mm. Basalt insulation is lightweight hydrophobized stone wool slabs based on basalt rocks.

The product is unique, and its compression reaches 70%. Rockwool insulation has excellent recoverability. It retains its original characteristics in all respects. Another advantage of basalt insulation is the use of a unique technology, which provides for the ability of the slabs to be compressed on one side, providing springiness. Thanks to this, it is much easier to install the material on a metal or wooden frame.

Thermal insulation with foil coating: purpose and application

Foil insulation can be based on different materials. The use of this insulation depends on the properties of the place where the work will be carried out; The characteristics of the material itself also matter. When laying such a layer on the floor, it is possible to increase heat transfer from radiators and insulate air ducts and pipelines. An excellent effect can be achieved if you install foil insulation on entrance doors, balconies, verandas and in the entryway. Before installing such material, you should prepare small nails, a nail puller, a hammer and a construction stapler. Among other things, you will also need foil construction tape. The foil should be located inside. It is a reflector and will return thermal radiation inside. Sometimes thermal insulation is laid on the other side, but this effect can no longer be achieved.

Purpose of insulation brand "Izover"

Izover insulation is a material made of mineral wool. It is sold in slabs and rolls, and is also made from high-quality stone fiber. Thermal insulation is made from natural materials, including:

Using Izover insulation, you can achieve excellent thermal and sound insulation of buildings. This solution is used to insulate house facades, roofs and walls, and also acts as excellent thermal insulation for floors. Insulation with roll insulation allows you to obtain a low coefficient of thermal conductivity of the surface. The material has a special fiber structure, which provides excellent acoustic properties and reduces noise levels.

Thermal insulation for pipes

Many materials are used for pipes today, among which foamed polyethylene should be highlighted. This solution is highly resistant to aggressive environments and has impressive strength. This type of insulation for pipes is produced in the form of tubes of different diameters. The pores have a closed structure, which guarantees no moisture absorption from external environment.

Some brands of such insulation are foil-coated and are used to minimize heat loss. Insulation for pipes can also be represented by foamed polyurethane foam. This insulation is one of the most common today and is installed by spraying onto the surface, which ensures a tight fit to the surface. Polyurethane foam can withstand extremely high and low temperatures, while the properties are not reduced, and each cell remains sealed.

Thermal insulation from the manufacturer Technonikol

TechnoNIKOL insulation is represented by a material based on rocks of the gabbro-basalt group. By purchasing this thermal insulation, you are buying stone wool, which is a non-flammable material, and the fibers melt only at a temperature of 1000 °C and above. This thermal insulation provides sound-absorbing and acoustic properties of surfaces. Mineral thermal insulation includes:

This TechnoNIKOL insulation in different types differs in the raw materials that are used in the production process.

The use of siding with thermal insulation

Siding with a layer of thermal insulation is installed in several stages. First, it is necessary to strengthen corner and side planks to the surface. Before starting this work, you need to make markings, draw lines that you will be guided by during the work process. After this, you can begin installing siding with insulation.

To do this, you need to use self-tapping screws that will be located around the entire perimeter of window and door openings. As for the latter, they are framed with planks so that installation of the cladding is not accompanied by difficulties. Afterwards you can start attaching the panels. You need to start from the bottom corner of the load-bearing wall.

Thermal insulation under plaster

Under plaster, you can use many different materials to insulate walls. Mineral wool, which has been popular for many years, is suitable for this. Foam plastic also acts as insulation for walls under plaster. However, it has a number of restrictions on use. This is expressed in low resistance to high temperatures. This applies even to the most modern species polystyrene foam, which contain special fire retardants.

Conclusion

In today's market building materials for thermal insulation different surfaces There are a huge variety of solutions available. Before making a choice, you must evaluate several factors, among others and the most important, you need to highlight the technical characteristics. The purpose and operating features of thermal insulation depend on them. If you do not comply with the requirements for the external environment when installing insulation, you may encounter low efficiency and the need to replace the thermal insulation layer.

Insulation: types, characteristics, purpose and application


At any temperature, thermal insulation will not hurt. If implemented correctly, the rooms will become noticeably warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Insulating walls allows you to create a comfortable microclimate, which applies not only to residential apartments and houses, but also to work spaces.

Review of types and characteristics of insulation materials, their areas of application

Today the market offers consumers different kinds insulation materials that differ in cost, installation and thermal conductivity. In addition to these indicators, it is necessary to pay attention to other characteristics in order to have an idea of ​​​​the correct use of thermal insulation when building a house.

A comprehensive assessment of the material will help you choose the right insulation for your home. The use of different types of thermal insulation depends not only on their properties, but also on the architectural features of the building, the thermal conductivity of individual structural elements, as well as the expected cold bridges. Insulation of each component of the house is carried out different materials.

External insulation of a loggia, balcony, basement is made with penoplex. Due to the fact that it can withstand loads of up to 0.5 MPa and is resistant to moisture, the insulation is optimally suited for exterior finishing of basements. Penoplex, being under the ground, is protected from fire and retains all its properties.

Thermal insulators for the external decoration of the walls of a house are selected depending on the material from which the structural element is built. It is best to inflate wooden houses with foam insulation. Applied under high pressure the foam fills all the cracks, and its structure allows the wood to breathe. The high price does not always allow the use of penoizol. As a replacement option, you can lay mineral wool. Walls made of concrete, gas blocks and other similar materials are insulated with penoplex or glass wool. Although, in government construction, they are more inclined to use glass wool due to its resistance to fire.

Inside the house, the walls and ceiling are insulated with non-combustible materials. Usually these are mineral wool mats laid in a frame. They are covered with a vapor barrier on top, which prevents moisture from penetrating the mats and fleecy fibers into the room. If there are lags, the ceiling is covered with ecowool. To insulate the floor, a 100 mm layer of expanded clay is filled, plus foam boards are laid. Flooded from above concrete screed prevents the insulation from burning, and the reinforcing mesh gives strength to the floors.

A modern and very practical insulation for roofing is polyurethane foam. It is applied by spraying. But its high price is not affordable for everyone. Most often, traditional insulation - mineral wool - is used for roofing. It is produced in different sizes in the form of mats and rolls.

Correctly selected insulation according to its characteristics will create comfortable living conditions inside the room.

Review of thermal insulation materials

Preventive types of insulation are most often used to finish various structural elements of a house. They have a low thermal conductivity.

Organic-based insulation materials are made from wood and agricultural waste. To improve properties, cement and plastic are added to natural raw materials. The result is insulation that is resistant to fire and moisture. It can withstand heat up to 150 degrees. The scope of application is wide, but is mainly used as internal insulation of a multi-layer roof or facade structure.

Another name for the material is wood concrete. It is made from sawdust, chopped straw or reeds with the addition of cement, as well as chemical hardeners. It has a density of up to 800 kg/m3 and a thermal conductivity coefficient of up to 0.12 W/m/K. Arbolite is divided into two types:

  • Structural - contains most cement, which is reflected in its high density - 800 kg/m3. Designed for wall construction.
  • Thermal insulation - has a lower density of 500 kg/m3 and a higher proportion of wood filler. Used as a heat insulator load-bearing walls, as well as for the construction of partitions.

According to the release form:

  • Ready-made blocks of different sizes.
  • Monolithic production takes place directly on the construction site. The material is immediately used to insulate walls or floors.

If we talk about the shape of the finished product, it is represented by smooth blocks of different sizes, blocks with a recess and slabs combined with concrete. The average cost of wood concrete from different manufacturers ranges from 4 to 6 thousand rubles/m3.

Another name for the material is cellulose insulation. Made from recycled paper or wood waste. The addition of antiseptics protects ecowool from being eaten by rodents and insects. Antipyrines create a self-extinguishing effect, which increases resistance to heating up to +232 °C. Ecowool has high rate moisture absorption up to 15%, and a 1.5 cm layer absorbs up to 9 dB of extraneous noise.

The approximate cost is about 30 rubles/kg.

This material is considered the best insulation for the floor, as well as the inner surface of the walls of the house. It is made only from natural raw materials without chemical additives in the form of rolls or slabs. The basis of the insulation is cork oak bark. The natural glue suberin contained in it allows you to abandon artificial adhesives. Cork is not edible by insects and is rot resistant. The material is divided into two types:

  • white agglomerate is made from the bark of oak branches;
  • black agglomerate is made from bark removed from a tree trunk.

Cork can be used as a base for wallpaper or as a finish. Thin roll material has found its application as a substrate for laminate flooring. The price of this natural material quite high. Depending on the modifications, the cost ranges from 800 to 4 thousand. rub./m2.

Honeycomb plastic insulator

The structure of the material consists of hexagonal cells like a honeycomb. Inside they are filled with fabric or paper filler held together with epoxy resin. Phenolic resins can be used as a fixative. In appearance, honeycomb panels resemble plastic. The characteristics of the material depend on the raw materials used in the production of the base. For example, the sheet density can be from 230 to 500 kg/m2.

Foam-polyvinyl chloride

PPVC heat insulator is made from foamed resins. The porousization method gives them this structure. The material is produced soft and hard, which gives it versatility. PVC is suitable for insulating roofs, floors and walls. Its density is 0.1 kg/m3.

Many people believe that chipboard is just a building material. But as insulation, the slabs have proven themselves to be good. Their base is small sawdust bonded with synthetic resin. The density of the slabs ranges from 500 to 1 thousand kg/m3, and water absorption is 5–30%.

The use of chipboard as insulation is justified for floors, walls and ceilings. The cost of the sheets is quite low and is affordable for every developer. Depending on the size, the sheet can be purchased for 400–900 rubles. The slabs are used as a base for installing soft roofs.

Fiberboard

The fiberboard board looks like chipboard. Its base consists of fibers of straw, corn or any wood. It is even possible to use waste paper. Synthetic resins are added as an adhesive. The density of fiberboard compared to chipboard is small, only up to 250 kg/m3, and the thermal conductivity is 0.07 W/m/K, plus low strength.

The scope of application is similar to that for chipboard. Low cost ranges up to 800 rubles. per sheet.

Polyurethane foam

Lightweight thermal insulation has a unique closed-cell structure, which creates the lowest thermal conductivity compared to other insulation materials. PUF is formed from the interaction of liquid components, polyester and MDI. Exposure to catalysts creates a chemical reaction that results in the formation of a new substance. The density of the insulation is 40–80 kg/m3, and the thermal conductivity of polyurethane foam is about 0.028 W/m/K.

Polyurethane foam is applied to the insulated surface using the spraying method, which allows you to treat any difficult areas. Optimal application PPU is the insulation of the roof and wooden walls of a house. The cost of the material along with the spraying work is quite high and can reach $200/m3.

Another name for insulation is mipora. It is obtained on the basis of a whipped water emulsion of urea-formaldehyde resin. Glycerin and sulfonic acid are used as additives. Mipore is delivered to the consumer in blocks or crumbs. It is used in liquid form at construction sites. Mipora poured into prepared cavities hardens at a positive temperature.

Low density up to 20 kg/m3 promotes strong water absorption. The thermal conductivity index is 0.03 W/m/K. Not afraid of fire.

Polystyrene foam and extruded polystyrene foam

These two insulation materials consist of 2% polystyrene and 98% air. The thermal conductivity index is 0.037–0.042 W/m/K. They differ from each other in structure. Polystyrene foam consists of small balls, and expanded polystyrene, when broken, resembles foam rubber.

Polystyrene is flammable and emits toxic smoke. Polystyrene foam is afraid of moisture, so it is more often used for insulating facades. Extruded polystyrene foam can remain in wet soil for a long time, so it is more suitable for external insulation of basements. The cost of the material is low.

A common insulation material for walls and roofs is mineral wool. It comes in two types:

  • slag wool is made from dissimilar metal casting waste;
  • stone wool is made from rocks, for example, basalt, limestone, etc.

The material is non-flammable, resistant to chemical attack, and has a low cost. Produced in slabs and rolls.

Glass wool

The material differs from mineral wool in fibers bigger size. The basis of production is the raw materials used to make glass. The thermal conductivity index is from 0.03 to 0.052 W/m/K, and the density is no more than 130 kg/m3. Glass wool is also popular for insulating roofs and walls.

Ceramic wool

Produced by blowing zirconium, silicon or aluminum oxide. Cotton wool is resistant to high temperatures and does not deform. The thermal conductivity index at +600°C is from 0.13 to 0.16 W/m/K, and the density is no more than 350 kg/m3. It is used for insulation of facades and roofs of buildings.

Mixed type insulation

Materials are produced from asbestos mixtures with the addition of perlite, dolomite and other components. The initial state of the material resembles dough. They cover the surface prepared for insulation and leave it until completely dry.

An example of a mixed type material is vulcanite and sovelite. Their thermal conductivity is 0.2 W/m/K. The cost of insulation is low, but it is dangerous to human health.

Reflective materials

Foil is used as a reflector, and foamed polyethylene creates a thermal barrier. The material has a thin structure up to 25 mm thick, but its effectiveness is equivalent to 100 mm thick fiber insulation. One popular example is penofol.

Reflective thermal insulation simultaneously acts as a vapor barrier, so it is convenient to use in baths and saunas. The cost of the material is low and accessible to everyone.

The main types of insulation materials discussed today and their characteristics will help you make the right choice of material for specific construction needs.

Insulation - types and characteristics, application, price of materials


Review of insulation materials used for thermal insulation of buildings. Their characteristics, types, application features and prices.

Types of insulation for houses and walls of wooden and frame houses

There is a wide choice of insulation materials for wooden houses; they can be used to insulate a house outside, and some even inside the house. What types are suitable for a frame house? Which is the best, let's look at their characteristics in this article! Properly carried out thermal insulation will not be superfluous in any climatic conditions.

  • What types of insulation and what to use?

When it is done correctly, then under its “protection” the house will not only be warmer in winter, but also noticeably cooler in summer.

In addition, saving heat means obvious financial savings. It is completely unreasonable to heat the street, despite the fact that the technologies used today provide an opportunity to save money energy resources already at the initial stage of construction work. Most of all, those parts of the building that are most adjacent to the external environment - the floor, walls and roof - need to use insulation.

What types of insulation and what to use?

Main types of insulation

Today there is a division of materials of this group directly at their destination. They also differ in appearance and shape.

There are fairly rigid piece insulations on sale (plates, segments, cylinders, etc.), flexible products (cords, wide and narrow mats, strands), as well as loose ones (perlite sand, vermiculite and cotton wool).

Based on their structure, they can be divided into fibrous, granular and cellular.

Based on the nature of the main raw materials, materials for thermal insulation are traditionally divided into organic and inorganic.

How to choose insulation?

Floor insulation

The decision to insulate the floor is sometimes driven by the desire to have a more constant temperature at home. When choosing insulation for the floor, comparing the characteristics of various materials, preference is given to the one that can withstand the considerable pressure exerted on it.

In this case, its compression performance will be important.

Well, an indispensable requirement is the ability to maintain insulating qualities, even when exposed to heavy loads and moisture.

Types of wall insulation

Insulation for house walls

Thermal insulation for this category is completely different, moreover, its type depends on the specific place of application - outside or inside the house.

For outdoor use, it is considered ideal to use basalt mineral wool, which is characterized by its ability to hold its shape and durability. Even during long-term use, it does not thin out, does not cake or become compacted.

Insulation from the inside of the structure is carried out based on the possible insulating layer: the layout features do not always allow it to be made sufficiently voluminous. More modern way

– use of paint with a ceramic base. Its layer can be small, and the tightness conditions are much easier to maintain.

Ceiling and its insulation

Mineral wool for ceiling insulation.

Mineral wool is in constant high demand for ceiling insulation. This is not at all surprising: it can be easily posted in interfloor ceilings

or in the rafter frame, in the quantity required for this. During operation there, nothing threatens it, thereby ensuring the initially high quality of insulation. If we neglect the unique qualities of wool and the ease of its installation, then other suitable means for thermal insulation could be sawdust with clay or ordinary slag.

However, these substances have not found widespread use due to their high cost and rather complex installation process.

This name combines several different subtypes of thermal insulation materials of this type. These are slag, stone and glass wool. This insulator is made by processing metallurgical alloys or melts of various rocks: a special synthetic binder is introduced into the resulting glassy fiber.

The material produced in this way has excellent sound and thermal insulation qualities, moreover, it is not flammable and therefore does not pose a fire hazard. But a huge part of the wonderful qualities of insulation can be irretrievably lost when it gets wet. This should be taken into account.

Stone wool

This is a fibrous material that is sold in the form of rolls and portioned slabs, and has an extremely low thermal conductivity.

The highest quality product is made from rocks called gabbro-basalt. This non-flammable material is used with equal success in the construction of private facilities and the construction of various industrial facilities. The wide range of uses is also explained by the possibility of its use at extremely high temperatures, reaching one thousand degrees.

The insulation's complete immunity to fire is complemented by its excellent resistance to moisture. This is a hydrophobic material, the peculiarity of which is that it does not absorb water, but repels it.

This ensures that the insulation remains dry even after a long period of time. This, in turn, will allow her to maintain her high performance qualities. Unique properties basalt wool allows it to be used even in boiler rooms, baths and saunas, where high humidity and high temperature are combined. Strength in this case is not directly dependent on the density of the material.

This is a fairly soft material, but at the same time has a sufficient margin of strength. Its structural stability is determined by the special arrangement of the individual component fibers - chaotic and vertical. The material has high anti-corrosion properties.

It can coexist quite peacefully with concrete and metal, without the occurrence of various kinds of chemical reactions. High biological stability provides it with immunity to various biological pests: damage by insects and rodents, the occurrence of fungal diseases, the development of rot and mold.

The basalt insulation passed the combustion test, but the organic insulation burned out

Basalt rock is the main raw material for the production of this type of wool.. Treatment with formaldehyde resins gives the material enough level strength, and used in this case modern technologies guarantee the complete elimination of harmful phenols at the production stage of the material.

The final product reaching the consumer is a harmless and environmentally friendly material with high insulating qualities.

It is actively used for insulating the floors of residential and industrial premises, for thermal insulation of roofs and facades, including as external insulation.

Glass wool


This fibrous material is made from a mass of molten glass.
Based on it, two types of insulation can be found on sale - soft mats rolled into rolls and hard slabs.

The product is characterized by high strength and excellent elasticity. As in the previous case, recycled formaldehyde resins are used as a coupling or binding agent.

Although not all the wonderful properties of basalt wool are inherent in its glass counterpart, it has its own special qualities. It has high plasticity, which significantly facilitates the stages of working with it, and allows you to significantly compress the material when laying it. But during operation, glass wool can cake and lose its original shape. Glass fiber is highly hygroscopic and can accumulate moisture from the external environment, accumulating it in its thickness.

We insulate a frame house with polystyrene foam

Polystyrene foam is a fairly hard, shape-holding board material widely used for thermal insulation of roofs, walls, floors and ceilings: both outside and inside. It is based on foamed polystyrene foam granules.

It goes on sale in slabs 1 by 2 meters, with different thicknesses: from two centimeters to half a meter. Its characteristics can vary noticeably, which is why the material is selected strictly individually in each specific case.

Depending on the manufacturing process, you can get two different types polystyrene foam, using virtually the same raw materials:

  • A porous plastic is a porous substance whose individual cavities communicate with each other. They are further divided into mipore, polyvinyl chloride foam, polyurethane foam and polystyrene foam;
  • foam directly - the contents of individual granules in it do not come into contact with environment and neighboring cavities.

Expanded polystyrene

Expanded polystyrene in the form of bricks

Expanded polystyrene is a material related to plastics with a cellular structure, it has almost all the qualities necessary for thermal insulation, it:

  • easy;
  • hard;
  • not afraid of water;
  • biological infections.
  • But due to its low fire resistance, it is recommended to use it at temperatures no higher than 150 degrees.

To improve this quality, special flame retardants are added to the insulation at the production stage. The symbol “C” is added to the name of such a material, and it is called self-extinguishing. The performance qualities of polystyrene foam have made it a fairly popular material.

Sprayed polyurethane foam

Spray on the wall

It is a foam material that can be applied by spraying through a special apparatus. It contains polyisocyanate, polyester polyol and various additives.

The adhesive properties of the material allow it to be safely applied even to vertical surfaces. It has excellent adhesion to concrete, plaster, roofing felt, metal, and gas silicate blocks.

The material is quite successfully used for insulation:

  1. internal;
  2. external walls;
  3. flat and pitched roofs;
  4. ground floors;
  5. foundations;
  6. basements;
  7. joints between structures.

This cellulose insulation is made from cardboard and paper waste. Its properties are actually determined by the substances included in its composition. In addition to the usual recycled cellulose, some foreign manufacturers also use hay, cotton waste, and sawdust. 81% of the material consists of carefully processed cellulose, while 12% is a mandatory antiseptic.


The missing 7% comes from specially added flame retardants.
Insulation fibers contain lignin, which becomes sticky when humidity increases. All elements included in the insulation are non-toxic, absolutely non-volatile and harmless to health. Cellulose insulation is resistant to combustion and rotting, and has excellent sound and heat insulation properties.

Ecowool can retain approximately 20% moisture while maintaining its performance properties. The material releases moisture to the outside and dries quickly, retaining all its performance. The disadvantage of ecowool is the difficulty of manually applying it to the surface, as well as the impossibility of arranging a “floating floor” due to its inherent softness.

Another name for the material is urea foam. This is a modern material with high sound and heat insulating characteristics, which is a cheap insulation material. This is a cellular organic foam with particularly low density and low thermal conductivity. The material has high fire resistance, resistance to microorganisms, and a low price. It is easy to process, its air content reaches 90%.

Insulating the attic with foam insulation

The tests carried out demonstrated the capabilities of the material. It turned out that the time of its operation as the middle layer of the structure frame structure, actual is not limited by anything. Tests of its fire resistance showed that the material can be safely classified as low-flammable.

This is the only thermal insulation material of a polymer nature that is not at all suitable for self-combustion. Its fire resistance index places it in the G2 flammability subgroup.

This is a special foil material (on both sides or only one). It is made of polyethylene foam fabric, covered on the outside with highly polished aluminum foil.

This is a multilayer vapor-sound- and heat-insulating material that combines completely different qualities.

Isocom insulation with foil With a minimum thickness of the insulating layer, it provides excellent properties for reflecting heat flow, successfully combined with the highest (almost maximum) thermal resistance indicators. For right installed material

characterized by exceptionally effective thermal insulation of the building along its entire contour.

This is a harmless, environmentally friendly material that does not pose a threat to the ozone layer. It does not contain glass or other fibers that are unsafe for the health of people and animals.

Without changing its exceptional properties, it serves for about 50 years, without deforming or being damaged during all this time.

Installation is quite simple and very convenient: it does not require special equipment. Excellent protection against steam and moisture. It is used almost everywhere.


What types of insulation are there and which one to choose for your home?

How to choose insulation? Review of all types of insulation for walls, floors, ceilings, roofs, attics. Wooden and frame house. Let's consider cheap options, find out! In a capricious, damp, cold climate, room insulation is one of the most important construction procedures. Which insulation to choose

? Where to start? Important! It's best to pay attention to- they are high-quality, durable, environmentally friendly. The “correct” insulation will help reduce heating costs. The main thing is that it does not shrink after construction, is not susceptible to insects and small rodents, and is also adapted to an aggressive weather environment (if there is such a need). Then you should start assessing the value for money.

Manufacturers of modern building materials have done everything possible to make sure that in the store your eyes run wild and your hands don’t know what exactly to grab onto. Kinds insulation materials and their purpose remain a mystery shrouded in darkness for most inexperienced people. Well, let's try to figure everything out in order.

Types of insulation, characteristics and application

There are two types of insulation: reflective (organic, inorganic) and preventive.

Preventive type insulation

This thermal insulation helps reduce heat consumption by reducing the degree of infrared radiation.

Preventive type insulation (inorganic base)

Arbolite - made from shavings, small sawdust, straw and finely chopped reeds. As a strong base, the insulation contains cement and a small content of chemical additives (calcium or soluble glass). At the end of production, such a product is treated with a solution with a high mineral content.

Properties of wood concrete:

  • Density - 450-700 kg per cubic meter;
  • Thermal conductivity 0.06-0.14 Watt per meter;
  • Compressive strength is 0.2-1 megapascal.

Polyvinyl chloride foam (PPVC)- made from PVC resins. The resins are given a foamy structure by industrial porousization. Such insulation can be both soft and hard. In essence, it is a universal heat insulator (for roofs, walls, floors, windows and entrance doors). Its density is about 0.1 kg per cubic meter.

Based on fine chips. Wood shavings make up 90% of its composition. The remaining 10% is: synthetic resin, antiseptics and water repellent.

Chipboard properties:

  • Density - 400-1000 kg per cubic meter;
  • Tensile strength - 0.2-0.7 megapascal;
  • The tensile strength when bending the material is 10-30 megapascals;
  • Humidity - 4-12%;
  • Hygroscopicity - 5-30 percent.

Wood fiber insulation board. Made from scrap wood, straw or corn stalks, and even old paper. Resins are used as the basis for binding materials. DVIP also contains antiseptics and water-repellent substances. This is one type of insulation used in country houses.

DVIP properties:

  • Density - up to 250 kg per cubic meter;
  • The tensile strength when bending the material is up to 12 megapascals;
  • Thermal conductivity - up to 0.08 Watt per meter.

Made on the basis of polyester with the addition of water, diisocyanate, emulsifiers.

Polyurethane foam is an excellent sound absorber. It is also resistant to wet environments. It is convenient in construction - it is applied by spraying. This makes it possible to process surfaces of complex configurations.

Properties of polyurethane foam:

  • Density - 35-75 kg per cubic meter;
  • Thermal conductivity - 0.017-0.027 Watt per meter. This is the maximum and best value for thermal insulation today;

Mipora. It is also called penoizol. Mipora is produced by beating urea-formaldehyde resin. To make the material stronger, glycerin is added to it. The foamed structure is obtained due to the content of sulfonic acids. Organic acid is used as a hardening catalyst. Mipora is sold both in the form of crumbs and in blocks, and in the form ready solution. This is another type of insulation that is popular in wooden houses.

Properties of mipora:

  • Density - within 20 kg per cubic meter;
  • Thermal conductivity - 0.03 Watt per meter;
  • Mipora is fireproof (burns only at 500 degrees), but is subject to deformation in extreme heat;
  • Minus - it is deformed under the influence of aggressive chemicals. Too hygroscopic.

(PPS). 98% of the insulation composition is air. The remaining 2% is polystyrene. Fire retardants may also be found in EPS.

Properties of expanded polystyrene:

  • Thermal conductivity - 0.038-0.044 Watts per meter;
  • Does not absorb moisture;
  • Corrosion resistant;
  • Unaffected by microflora and bioagents;
  • Almost non-flammable. Even if it catches fire, it will emit significantly less heat than burning wood.

Consists of polyethylene and its foaming agent. Perfectly protects against steam and any external noise due to its small pores.

Features of foamed polyethylene:

  • Density - 20-55 kg per cubic meter;
  • Thermal conductivity - 0.042-0.050 Watt per meter;
  • Used at temperatures from 40 degrees below zero to 100 degrees above zero;
  • Poorly absorbs moisture;
  • Practically resistant to chemical and biological effects.

Fiberboard insulation- based on thin wood shavings combined with cement and a magnesium component. Available in slab form. Ideal for wet areas.

Properties of fiberboard insulation:

  • Density - 200-500 kg per cubic meter;
  • Thermal conductivity - 0.06-0.1 Watt per meter;
  • Fireproof.

Honeycomb insulation- consists of cells resembling a honeycomb. But this is not necessary; cells sometimes come in other shapes. This insulation is filled with special fabric or paper based on organic fibers and resins. The outside insulation is covered with thin sheets of plastic.

Made from paper production waste (defective books, cardboard, newspapers, magazines, etc.). For lower cost ecowool, waste paper is also used.

Properties of ecowool:

  • Excellent sound insulation;
  • High thermal insulation. Gradually, ecowool decreases in volume and its properties deteriorate;
  • High hygroscopicity;
  • No visible joints after installation.

Preventive type insulation (organic base)

It can be slag or stone. Slag is made from waste from metal production (both non-ferrous and ferrous). Stone is made on the basis of rocks (limestone, basalt, etc.). Phenol or urea is used to bind the components.

Properties of mineral wool:

  • Does not burn;
  • Perfectly absorbs noise;
  • Resistant to chemicals;
  • Does not absorb water well;
  • Almost does not shrink over time;
  • Lets out steam. Therefore, mineral wool needs insulation.

Made from glass and glass production waste. Its fibers are thicker and longer. It does not burn, absorbs sound and is not subject to the destructive effects of chemical compounds.

Properties of glass wool:

  • Density - up to 130 kg per cubic meter;
  • Thermal conductivity - 0.02-0.053 Watts per square meter;
  • Withstands temperatures up to 450 degrees Celsius;
  • Poorly absorbs moisture;
  • Does not corrode.

Ceramic wool is based on aluminum and silicon oxide. It is produced in a special centrifuge. Not afraid of chemicals and resistant to high temperatures.

Properties of ceramic wool:

  • Withstands temperatures of more than 1000 degrees Celsius;
  • Thermal conductivity - 0.12-0.17 Watt per meter;
  • Density - up to 350 kg per cubic meter.

Today the market offers consumers various types of insulation, differing in cost, installation and thermal conductivity. In addition to these indicators, it is necessary to pay attention to other characteristics in order to have an idea of ​​​​the correct use of thermal insulation when building a house.

A comprehensive assessment of the material will help you choose the right insulation for your home. The use of different types of thermal insulation depends not only on their properties, but also on the architectural features of the building, the thermal conductivity of individual structural elements, as well as the expected cold bridges. The insulation of each component of the house is carried out with different materials.
External insulation of a loggia, balcony, basement is made with penoplex. Due to the fact that it can withstand loads of up to 0.5 MPa and is resistant to moisture, the insulation is optimally suited for exterior finishing of basements. Penoplex, being under the ground, is protected from fire and retains all its properties.
Thermal insulators for the external decoration of the walls of a house are selected depending on the material from which the structural element is built. It is best to inflate wooden houses with foam insulation. The foam, applied under high pressure, fills all cracks, and its structure allows the wood to breathe. The high price does not always allow the use of penoizol. As a replacement option, you can lay mineral wool. Walls made of concrete, gas blocks and other similar materials are insulated with penoplex or glass wool. Although, in government construction, they are more inclined to use glass wool due to its resistance to fire.
Inside the house, the walls and ceiling are insulated with non-combustible materials. Usually these are mineral wool mats laid in a frame. They are covered with a vapor barrier on top, which prevents moisture from penetrating the mats and fleecy fibers into the room. If there are lags, the ceiling is covered with ecowool. To insulate the floor, a 100 mm layer of expanded clay is filled, plus foam boards are laid. The concrete screed poured on top prevents the insulation from burning, and the reinforcing mesh gives strength to the floors.
A modern and very practical insulation for roofing is polyurethane foam. It is applied by spraying. But its high price is not affordable for everyone. Most often, traditional insulation - mineral wool - is used for roofing. It is produced in different sizes in the form of mats and rolls.
Correctly selected insulation according to its characteristics will create comfortable living conditions inside the room.

Review of thermal insulation materials

Preventive types of insulation are most often used to finish various structural elements of a house. They have a low thermal conductivity.
Organic-based insulation materials are made from wood and agricultural waste. To improve properties, cement and plastic are added to natural raw materials. The result is insulation that is resistant to fire and moisture. It can withstand heat up to 150 degrees. The scope of application is wide, but is mainly used as internal insulation of a multi-layer roof or facade structure.

  • white agglomerate is made from the bark of oak branches;
  • black agglomerate is made from bark removed from a tree trunk.

Cork can be used as a base for wallpaper or as a finish. Thin roll material has found its application as a substrate for laminate flooring. The price of such natural material is quite high. Depending on the modifications, the cost ranges from 800 to 4 thousand. rub./m2.

Honeycomb plastic insulator

The structure of the material consists of hexagonal cells like a honeycomb. Inside they are filled with fabric or paper filler held together with epoxy resin. Phenolic resins can be used as a fixative. In appearance, honeycomb panels resemble plastic. The characteristics of the material depend on the raw materials used in the production of the base. For example, the sheet density can be from 230 to 500 kg/m2.

Foam-polyvinyl chloride

PPVC heat insulator is made from foamed resins. The porousization method gives them this structure. The material is produced soft and hard, which gives it versatility. PVC is suitable for insulating roofs, floors and walls. Its density is 0.1 kg/m3.

Many people believe that chipboard is just a building material. But as insulation, the slabs have proven themselves to be good. Their base is small sawdust bonded with synthetic resin. The density of the slabs ranges from 500 to 1 thousand kg/m3, and water absorption is 5–30%.
The use of chipboard as insulation is justified for floors, walls and ceilings. The cost of the sheets is quite low and is affordable for every developer. Depending on the size, the sheet can be purchased for 400–900 rubles. The slabs are used as a base for installing soft roofs.

Fiberboard

The fiberboard board looks like chipboard. Its base consists of fibers of straw, corn or any wood. It is even possible to use waste paper. Synthetic resins are added as an adhesive. The density of fiberboard compared to chipboard is small, only up to 250 kg/m3, and the thermal conductivity is 0.07 W/m/K, plus low strength.
The scope of application is similar to that for chipboard. Low cost ranges up to 800 rubles. per sheet.

Lightweight thermal insulation has a unique closed-cell structure, which creates the lowest thermal conductivity compared to other insulation materials. PPU is formed from the interaction of liquid components, polyester and MDI. Exposure to catalysts creates a chemical reaction that results in the formation of a new substance. The density of the insulation is 40–80 kg/m3, and the thermal conductivity of polyurethane foam is about 0.028 W/m/K.
Polyurethane foam is applied to the insulated surface using the spraying method, which allows you to treat any difficult areas. The optimal use of polyurethane foam is to insulate the roof and wooden walls of a house. The cost of the material along with the spraying work is quite high and can reach $200/m3.

Penoizol

Another name for insulation is mipora. It is obtained on the basis of a whipped water emulsion of urea-formaldehyde resin. Glycerin and sulfonic acid are used as additives. Mipore is delivered to the consumer in blocks or crumbs. It is used in liquid form at construction sites. Mipora poured into prepared cavities hardens at a positive temperature.
Low density up to 20 kg/m3 promotes strong water absorption. The thermal conductivity index is 0.03 W/m/K. Not afraid of fire.

Polystyrene foam and extruded polystyrene foam

These two insulation materials consist of 2% polystyrene and 98% air. The thermal conductivity index is 0.037–0.042 W/m/K. They differ from each other in structure. Polystyrene foam consists of small balls, and expanded polystyrene, when broken, resembles foam rubber.
Polystyrene is flammable and emits toxic smoke. Polystyrene foam is afraid of moisture, so it is more often used for insulating facades. Extruded polystyrene foam can remain in wet soil for a long time, so it is more suitable for external insulation of basements. The cost of the material is low.

Minvata

A common insulation material for walls and roofs is mineral wool. It comes in two types:

  • slag wool is made from dissimilar metal casting waste;
  • stone wool is made from rocks, for example, basalt, limestone, etc.

The material is non-flammable, resistant to chemical attack, and has a low cost. Produced in slabs and rolls.

Glass wool

The material differs from mineral wool in that it has larger fibers. The basis of production is the raw materials used to make glass. The thermal conductivity index is from 0.03 to 0.052 W/m/K, and the density is no more than 130 kg/m3. Glass wool is also popular for insulating roofs and walls.

Ceramic wool

Produced by blowing zirconium, silicon or aluminum oxide. Cotton wool is resistant to high temperatures and does not deform. The thermal conductivity index at +600°C is from 0.13 to 0.16 W/m/K, and the density is no more than 350 kg/m3. It is used for insulation of facades and roofs of buildings.

Mixed type insulation

Materials are produced from asbestos mixtures with the addition of perlite, dolomite and other components. The initial state of the material resembles dough. They cover the surface prepared for insulation and leave it until completely dry.

Asbestos is resistant to fire and can withstand heating up to 900 ° C, but it is afraid of moisture, so such thermal insulation requires mandatory waterproofing.

An example of a mixed type material is vulcanite and sovelite. Their thermal conductivity is 0.2 W/m/K. The cost of insulation is low, but it is dangerous to human health.

Reflective materials

Foil is used as a reflector, and foamed polyethylene creates a thermal barrier. The material has a thin structure up to 25 mm thick, but its effectiveness is equivalent to 100 mm thick fiber insulation. One popular example is penofol.
Reflective thermal insulation simultaneously acts as a vapor barrier, so it is convenient to use in baths and saunas. The cost of the material is low and accessible to everyone.
The main types of insulation materials discussed today and their characteristics will help you make the right choice of material for specific construction needs.
In the following video you can get acquainted with the characteristics of some types of insulation.

Proper insulation of the walls of private houses and apartments ensures a comfortable environment in the home and also allows you to reduce heating costs.

The building materials market currently offers various types of new and traditional insulation materials for private homes. Finding the optimal heat insulator can be quite difficult. It is necessary to take into account a lot of nuances, understand the technical characteristics of this or that insulation, understand which products are suitable for the walls of living rooms, and which ones are more reasonable to use to protect balconies and loggias.

The correct choice of thermal insulation material guarantees the inhabitants of the home pleasant coolness in summer and beneficial warmth in winter.

This idyll is achieved due to the fact that insulating products eliminate drafts and reduce heat loss. They also ensure a healthy microclimate in the house and eliminate the risk of mold and dampness.

With the right choice of material for thermal insulation, the house will be cool in summer and warm in winter.

The qualities of a good heat-shielding material are as follows:

  1. 1. Density from 30 kg/sq. m. If this figure is less, cold bridges will very quickly begin to appear on the walls due to the insulation sliding off the vertical surface and its deformation.
  2. 2. High moisture resistance. The optimal water absorption coefficient of an insulator is 0. In practice, it is quite difficult to find such a material. Choose those products in which the specified coefficient tends to zero. Then they will perform their duties for a long time, protecting wall surfaces from cold and moisture.
  3. 3. Thermal insulation index up to 0.032–0.039 W/m*K. The higher this value, the greater the thickness of the protective material. This means that you will have to spend extra money on the purchase of expensive products, and also suffer (literally) with the installation of thick and uncomfortable insulation. Moreover, the quality of thermal protection will not increase significantly when using them.
  4. 4. Operational safety. Choose types of modern insulation that are non-flammable, non-toxic, and have an increased level of environmental friendliness. The safety of thermal insulation for walls is evidenced by a special certificate issued by sanitary and epidemiological services. This document indicates harmful compounds and elements (ammonia, xylene, phenol, toluene, formaldehyde, etc.) released during use and combustion of the material.

An important property of insulating products is durability. Many irresponsible manufacturers of thermal insulation materials claim that their products last 50–60 years. Believe me, there are very few such products on the construction market. The actual effective service life of insulation is 10–20 years. And even then, subject to strict adherence to the rules of their installation.

Types of insulation products - what do consumers need to know?

Modern thermal insulators for walls are available for interior work and for external insulation. Materials of different groups differ from each other. There are universal products. They can be used for both external and internal work. External insulation of wall surfaces is usually performed with polystyrene foam (expanded polystyrene), bulk mixtures, basalt heat insulator, and special heat-protective plaster. For interior work, mineral wool, polyethylene foam, urea foam or penoizol are used.

Insulating materials are also divided into organic and inorganic. The first of these are not very durable and functional. At the same time, they are characterized by a high level of environmental friendliness. Organic heat insulators include tow, moss, cork, fiber, jute, and rubber. Inorganic products - polyurethane foam, glass wool, polystyrene foam and others are more toxic. But their service life is significantly longer. Next, we will take a closer look at the types of the most popular insulation materials and describe their main characteristics.

Mineral wool has been used for internal insulation for a very long time. Such material is produced by heat treatment of basalt or various metallurgical slags and their subsequent pressing on special units. Finished products are sold in the form of slabs and rolls up to 20 cm thick. A caveat: mineral wool can be used as external insulation. But in this case, it is necessary to additionally protect it from getting wet with a vapor barrier film or membrane, and also to cover it with plasterboard sheets (other finishing products).

Mineral wool is one of the oldest insulation materials

Mineral wool is described by the following operational advantages:

  • excellent sound insulation;
  • environmental friendliness;
  • low thermal conductivity;
  • resistance to chemical compounds and high temperatures.

The disadvantage of mineral wool is that it eats up space inside the room, since its thickness is quite large. In addition, the installation process of this heat insulator is objectively labor-intensive (the need for waterproofing work, the use of finishing materials, the complexity of fastening).

A cheaper analogue of mineral wool is glass wool. It is obtained by melting waste glass, dolomites, sand, borax, limestone, and soda. Glass wool is an environmentally friendly material for walls. It is suitable for insulating external surfaces and internal partitions. Such a fibrous insulator does not burn and has high sound and heat protection potential. But working with him is difficult and unsafe. The sharp and thin fibers of cotton wool can injure a person. And small particles of brittle material easily penetrate the respiratory system, causing harm to health. For these reasons, glass wool installation is always carried out wearing gloves, thick overalls, a respirator and safety glasses.

The classic insulation is technical polystyrene foam (PSB). Made from plastic foam mass, pressed into finished form It is a monolithic dense (15–50 kg/cubic meter) slab. PSB can be used for external and internal insulation measures. It does not lose its properties at temperatures from +80 to –40 °C, is easy to install, is light in weight, and has an acceptable cost. – no more than 0.039 W/m*K.

Polystyrene foam can be installed both indoors and outdoors

Disadvantages of the material:

  • fragility;
  • tendency to thermal destruction;
  • low vapor permeability.

Installation of polystyrene foam is carried out using anchor dowels and mushrooms (outside), adhesive composition (indoors). Sometimes PSB is installed on a wooden sheathing prepared on the wall in advance.

Extruded polystyrene foam (penoplex, EPP) is also popular. In a number of characteristics it is similar to the foam plastic discussed above. It has higher strength, resistance to moisture, and thermal conductivity. Compared to mineral wool, its thickness is smaller (maximum 8–10 cm). Due to this, it takes up little space when installed inside the house. – a simple operation. EPP can be easily attached to any wall surfaces (brick, concrete, plastered bases). Expanded polystyrene boards are fixed with hardware (if external walls are insulated) and with glue (internal partitions).

Penoplex easily attaches to any surface

A relatively new heat protectant for the walls of residential buildings - polyethylene foam - deserves special attention. It is compatible with most construction products and is described as having excellent vibration, heat, water and sound insulation, low thermal conductivity, and absolute safety for human health. Polyethylene foam is sold under the brands Energoflex, Szopenol, Izolon. Such heat insulators are usually used for insulation internal surfaces. They can protect walls in brick, concrete, frame, and wooden houses from the cold.

Important point! All polymer insulation materials belong to the category of combustible products. When there is a fire, they release toxic compounds into the air. This should be taken into account and the insulation layer must be protected with hanging systems and plaster, which eliminate the risk of accidental ignition of heat-insulating polymer boards.

Rare types of heat insulators - meet innovation!

Now owners of residential properties are beginning to actively develop new types of insulating products for walls. For example, lovers of environmentally friendly pure materials They use cork heat insulators, the raw material for which is Mediterranean oak wood. Such insulation materials are produced in the form of slabs, loose mass and plastic coating. Advantages of cork heat-shielding materials:

  • do not become moldy or rot;
  • very durable (no shifts or kinks when the house shrinks);
  • not spoiled by rodents;
  • do not emit harmful substances, carcinogens, toxic compounds;
  • completely natural.

Ceramic liquid heat insulators are characterized by an excellent level of environmental friendliness. These innovative compositions are applied to various wall substrates (wood, brick, concrete) without the slightest difficulty using conventional paint brush. Liquid insulation under the brands Tezolat and Corundum do not catch fire when direct influence fire, have 100% antibacterial protection and uniquely high heat-shielding properties. Such compositions have only one drawback - high cost.

Choose the right insulation and enjoy the comfort of your home!

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