Insulation

 

Definition: Roof insulation is a material placed in or over a roof system to help regulate temperature, maximize energy efficiency, and lessen heat loss between a building’s interior and exterior spaces. Insulated roofs provide comfortable indoor temperatures, save energy, and prevent condensation problems such as wet roofs.

Purpose & Functionality:

• Thermal Control: controls the loss of heat in winter and the increase of heat during summer, increasing a building’s overall energy performance.
• Moisture Management: helps to prevent condensation, preventing mold development and rot through moisture trapped in a home.
• Soundproofing:  can act as a sound absorber, keeping out outside sounds from the rain, wind, or traffic.
• Fire Resistant:  products are fire resistant for an added safety factor.

Types of Roofing Insulation:

• Batt or Blanket Insulation: Using fiberglass, mineral wool or natural fibers, batt or blanket insulation is placed between rafters or joists in attics and pitched roofs.
• Spray Foam Insulation: A polyurethane foam that expands when you spray it, closing the seams and offering superior airtightness.
• Rigid Foam Board: Consisting of polystyrene, polyisocyanurate or polyurethane, rigid foam boards provide exceptional thermal performance for flat or low slope roofing.
• Reflective (Radiant Barrier) Insulation: Reflective foil insulation designed to reflect radiant heat and is generally used in warmer climates to keep rooms cooler.
• Blown-In (Loose-Fill) Insulation: Constructed mostly of cellulose, fiberglass or mineral wool, it is blown into attics or roof space to effectively fill in voids.

Installation Methods:

• Deck Over the Roof: On most commercial or flat roof applications, rigid insulation boards are installed above the structural deck before the roof membrane is installed.
• Rafters Between Rafters: On residential and pitched roofs, batt or spray foam is placed between the rafters to minimize evaporation.
• Under the Roof Deck: Insulation shingles or spray foam may also be used under the roof deck for additional insulation.

Benefits of Roof Insulation:

• Energy Efficiency: Isolation saves money on heating and cooling.
• Greater Comfort: Helps keep the interior temperature at a steady level throughout the year.
• Ice Dams: Insulation stops heat loss in the winter, and thus prevents ice dams from forming on the roof.
• Longer Roof Lifespan: By reducing the fluctuations of temperature, you avoid thermal expansion and contraction, which eventually wears down the roof.

Common Issues:

• Mold Growth or Roof Rot: Poor insulation installation can trap moisture, resulting in mold or roof rot.
• Compaction Over Time: Some insulation such as fiberglass batts loses performance when compressed or put into the wrong place.
• Misguided Ventilation: Insulation should be accompanied by proper roof ventilation to prevent condensation.

Maintenance and Inspection Tips:

• Ongoing Maintenance: Examine the roof for dampness, cracks or leaking insulation that might compromise performance.
• Upgrade when required: Older insulation may not be as energy efficient today and should be replaced if necessary.
• Maintain Balanced Attic Ventilation: Do not let the attic stagnate in any way.

Applications:

• Roofs for homes: Used in residential buildings to optimize efficiency and save money on energy bills.
• Commercial Roofing: Helps keep office buildings, warehouses, and industries at controlled temperatures.
• Green Roofs: Often used in conjunction with green roofs for sustainability and insulation.

Roof insulation helps to enhance a building’s energy performance, comfort and durability. Choosing the proper insulation and having it installed in the correct way will ensure that you get the most from your insulation and keep the roof healthy.