Frequently Asked Questions...
What is PIR board?
Polyisocyanurate (PIR), is often manufactured as boards, and is commonly used in insulated metal panels, wall cavities, and as insulated plasterboard. Due to its superior thermal performance, PIR insulation requires only half the thickness of other mineral-based insulation materials. Similar to polyurethane (PUR), PIR also acts as an effective barrier against moisture.
What is cavity insulation?
Cavity wall insulation is a material installed in the space between a building's inner and outer walls. It works by trapping warm air, preventing it from circulating within the cavity, and helping to retain heat inside the building.
What is loft insulation?
Loft insulation is installed in the space between a building's top-floor ceiling and the roof, commonly referred to as the loft or attic. It helps reduce heat loss from the living areas below, improving energy efficiency and maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature.
What does acoustic insulation do?
Sound insulation, also known as acoustic insulation, is specifically designed to minimise noise transfer both within and outside your home. In addition to reducing sound, acoustic insulation batts offer a degree of thermal performance, contributing to better temperature regulation indoors.
How often should cavity wall insulation be replaced?
Cavity wall insulation is an efficient method for improving your home's energy efficiency and can last up to 25 years. However, its durability depends on factors such as the quality of installation, the type of insulation material used, and local weather conditions.
How to install insulated plasterboard
Tools and Materials Needed:
• Insulated plasterboard
• Adhesive (e.g., drywall adhesive or foam adhesive)
• Screws or drywall fixings
• Spirit level
• Measuring tape
• Utility knife or saw
• Plasterboard joint tape and filler
• Drill or screwdriver
• Safety equipment (gloves, goggles, dust mask)
Steps to Install Insulated Plasterboard:
1. Prepare the Wall
• Check for moisture: Ensure the wall is dry and free of any dampness. If necessary, fix any underlying moisture issues before starting.
• Clean the wall: Remove any debris, dust, or old plaster that might prevent good adhesion.
• Install battens (optional): If the wall is uneven, you might need to install timber battens to create a level surface for the plasterboard.
2. Measure and Cut the Plasterboard
• Measure the area of the wall where the insulated plasterboard will be installed.
• Use a utility knife or saw to cut the plasterboard to the required size. Be sure to wear safety equipment when cutting.
3. Apply Adhesive
• Apply adhesive to the back of the insulated plasterboard in evenly spaced dabs or a continuous bead around the edges.
• Alternatively, for some installations, you can use screws with appropriate fixings into battens or masonry.
4. Position the Plasterboard
• Place the plasterboard against the wall, starting from the bottom.
• Press it firmly against the wall to ensure it adheres properly, using a spirit level to ensure it's straight.
5. Fix the Plasterboard
• If you're using mechanical fixings, secure the plasterboard to the wall with screws or drywall fixings at regular intervals.
• If adhesive is being used, support the plasterboard until the adhesive sets (usually 24 hours).
6. Join the Boards
• Repeat the process for additional boards, ensuring the joints between the boards are tight.
• Apply joint tape over the seams between boards to prevent cracking.
7. Fill and Sand
• Use filler or plaster to fill in any gaps, holes, or joints.
• Once the filler dries, sand it down for a smooth finish.
8. Finish
• The wall is now ready for decoration. You can paint, wallpaper, or apply other finishes to the insulated plasterboard.
Tips:
• Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for both the plasterboard and adhesive materials.
• Ensure the room is well-ventilated during the installation process.
• For larger or more complex projects, consider consulting a professional to ensure proper installation.
How often should cavity wall insulation be replaced?
Cavity wall insulation typically doesn't need to be replaced once it's installed, as most types are designed to last the lifetime of the building (around 25-40 years or more). However, certain circumstances may require it to be replaced or inspected, such as:
• Damage or Degradation: If the insulation becomes damaged due to flooding, damp issues, or other structural problems, it may need to be replaced.
• Incorrect Installation: Poor installation can lead to cold spots, damp, or even structural issues. In these cases, it might be necessary to remove and reinstall it.
• Outdated Materials: Older types of insulation, such as urea-formaldehyde foam (used in the 1970s and 80s), may degrade over time or release harmful fumes. If your home has these, replacement is advisable.
• Energy Efficiency Upgrades: Modern insulation materials may offer better thermal performance. If you're looking to improve the energy efficiency of your home, you might consider upgrading the insulation.
Otherwise, regular inspections (every 10-15 years) are sufficient to ensure the insulation is still performing effectively.
What are the benefits of insulating my home, and how does it impact energy efficiency and comfort?
Insulating your home can significantly reduce energy consumption by minimizing heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. This not only lowers your utility bills but also enhances indoor comfort by maintaining a consistent temperature throughout your home. Additionally, proper insulation can reduce noise pollution and increase the overall value of your property.
How do I determine the appropriate R-value for my home, and what factors influence this decision?
The appropriate R-value for your home depends on several factors, including your climate zone, the part of the house being insulated (e.g., walls, attic, floors), and local building codes. Higher R-values are typically needed in colder climates to provide adequate thermal resistance. Consulting with a local insulation expert or using online R-value calculators can help you make an informed decision.
What are the steps involved in a professional insulation installation, and how can I prepare my home for this process?
Professional insulation installation typically involves the following steps:
- Assessment: A professional will evaluate your home to determine the areas that need insulation and the best type of insulation to use.
- Preparation: This may include sealing air leaks, removing old insulation, and ensuring the area is clean and dry.
- Installation: The insulation material is installed according to manufacturer guidelines and local building codes.
- Inspection: A final inspection ensures that the insulation is properly installed and meets all requirements. To prepare your home, you may need to clear access to areas being insulated and ensure pets and children are kept away from the work area.
What are the potential health and safety concerns associated with different types of insulation, and how can they be mitigated?
Some insulation materials can pose health and safety risks if not handled properly:
- Fibreglass: Can cause skin and respiratory irritation. Wearing protective clothing and masks can mitigate these risks.
- Spray Foam: Can release harmful chemicals during installation. Professional installation with proper ventilation is essential.
- Cellulose: Can be dusty and may require a vapour barrier to prevent moisture issues. Using dust masks and ensuring proper ventilation can help.
- Mineral Wool: Generally safe but can cause skin irritation. Wearing gloves and long sleeves can prevent contact.
What are the cost considerations for different types of insulation, and how can I budget for an insulation project?
The cost of insulation varies depending on the type of material, the area to be insulated, and whether you hire professionals or do it yourself. Fibreglass batts are generally the most affordable, while spray foam tends to be more expensive. To budget for an insulation project, get multiple quotes from contractors, consider the long-term energy savings, and look for any available rebates or incentives for energy-efficient home improvements.
How can I evaluate the effectiveness of my current insulation, and what tools or methods are available for this purpose?
To evaluate the effectiveness of your current insulation, you can conduct an energy audit, which may include a blower door test to identify air leaks and a thermographic inspection to detect heat loss. You can also check for signs like high energy bills, uneven temperatures, and drafts. Professional energy auditors can provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend improvements.
How to lay loft insulation?
- Prepare the Loft Space: Clear out any items stored in the loft.
- Ensure you have safety gear: gloves, mask, and goggles to protect against dust and fibres.
- Seal Gaps: Use sealant, tape, or grommets to seal any gaps around cables or wall partitions.
- Measure and Calculate: Measure the area of your loft to determine how much insulation you need.
- Lay the First Layer: Start by laying a 100 mm layer of insulation between the joists. Leave a 50 mm gap between the insulation and the roof for ventilation.
- Add a Second Layer:Lay a second layer of insulation at a 90-degree angle to the first, using 200 mm insulation rolls or more. This helps to cover the joists and create a thicker layer.
- Insulate the Loft Hatch:Attach a piece of insulation to the loft hatch to prevent heat loss.
- Avoid Compression:If you plan to use the loft for storage, ensure that stored items do not compress the insulation.
What is EPS insulation?
EPS insulation, or Expanded Polystyrene insulation, is a type of thermal insulation made from expanded polystyrene foam.
What is kingspan kooltherm used for?
Kingspan Kooltherm is a range of high-performance thermal insulation boards used in various building applications. Here are some common uses:
- Walls: Kooltherm boards are used for insulating both internal and external walls, including cavity walls and solid walls.
- Roofs: They are suitable for pitched roofs, flat roofs, and loft conversions.
- Floors: Kooltherm can be used for insulating ground floors, suspended floors, and even concrete floors.
- Soffits: These boards are also used in insulating soffits, which are the undersides of architectural structures like balconies or overhangs.
Kooltherm insulation is known for its high thermal efficiency, allowing for thinner boards to achieve the same insulation performance as thicker alternatives. This makes it a popular choice for both new builds and retrofit projects.
What are Celotex Insulation Boards made of?
Celotex boards are made from polyisocyanurate (PIR) with low emissivity foil facings, making them highly reflective and efficient at insulating.
Where can Celotex Insulation Boards be used?
They can be used in a variety of applications including floors, walls, roofs, and ceilings.
How do you install Celotex Insulation Boards?
How do you install Celotex Insulation Boards? A: Installation methods vary depending on the application, but generally involve cutting the boards to size, fitting them snugly, and sealing joints with aluminium tape.
What is the difference between partial fill and full fill cavity wall insulation?
Partial fill leaves a 50mm airspace in the cavity for ventilation, while full fill completely fills the cavity.
How do you install Celotex Cavity Wall Boards?
They are typically installed with stainless steel wall ties and a vapour control layer to prevent moisture ingress.
What are Recticel Insulation Boards used for?
Recticel boards are versatile and can be used for insulating floors, walls, and roofs.
How do Recticel Insulation Boards compare to other insulation types?
They offer excellent thermal performance and are easy to handle and install, similar to other PIR boards.
Are Recticel Cavity Wall Boards suitable for all types of buildings?
Yes, they are suitable for both new builds and renovations, providing effective insulation for cavity walls.
What is the thermal conductivity of Recticel Cavity Wall Boards?
They typically have a low thermal conductivity, enhancing their insulating properties.
What makes Kingspan Kooltherm Boards unique?
Kingspan Kooltherm boards are known for their high thermal efficiency and thin profile, making them ideal for space-constrained applications.
Can Kingspan Kooltherm Boards be used in external wall insulation?
Yes, they are suitable for external wall insulation as well as internal walls, floors, and roofs.
What are the benefits of using Polystyrene Insulation?
Polystyrene insulation is lightweight, easy to install, and provides good thermal insulation
Is Polystyrene Insulation suitable for all climates?
It is effective in a variety of climates but may require additional protection in areas with high fire risk due to its combustibility.
How do MF systems contribute to insulation?
MF systems can incorporate insulation materials within the ceiling void. This helps improve thermal performance and sound insulation, making spaces more energy-efficient and acoustically comfortable.
What types of insulation can be used with MF systems?
Various types of insulation can be used, including mineral wool, fibreglass, and rigid foam boards. The choice depends on the specific thermal and acoustic requirements of the project.
How is insulation installed in MF systems?
Insulation is typically placed above the metal framework before the plasterboard is fixed. This ensures that the insulation is securely held in place and provides continuous coverage.
