Insulation for Ventilated Cladding

Insulation for ventilated cladding systems in the UK commonly employs both mineral wool and phenolic boards. Mineral wool, such as rockwool or glasswool, offers excellent thermal and acoustic performance, fire resistance, and durability. Phenolic boards, on the other hand, provide exceptional thermal efficiency due to their low thermal conductivity, significantly reducing heat loss and improving energy efficiency. They also exhibit high fire resistance and are lightweight and durable, making them easy to handle and install. Both insulation types contribute to the overall energy efficiency, fire safety, and acoustic performance of the building while ensuring moisture resistance within the ventilated cavity.

The choice between mineral wool and phenolic boards often depends on specific project requirements. Mineral wool excels in its versatility and cost-effectiveness, while phenolic boards offer superior thermal performance and can be advantageous in situations where space constraints are a concern due to their high insulation value per unit thickness. Careful consideration of factors such as budget, thermal performance targets, fire safety regulations, and environmental impact will guide the selection of the most suitable insulation material for a particular ventilated cladding system.