A Few Basic Facts About Thermal Insulation

by Mark Row

Thermal insulation significantly affects the quality of life in a single object, and when we add the fact that it also saves electricity and reduces consumption of other sources of energy, it’s clear why insulation has become one of the most important subjects in the 21. century. Well insulated building can save up to 2/3 the energy needed for its heating and cooling.

If we are talking about houses, thermal insulation is more or less open and shut case. If you have a knack for do-it-yourself work this is a job that doesn’t require professional help. But when it comes to cold high-rise flats or shops things are not so simple. Why? Because quality insulation usually needs a external wall insulation layer, on the outer side of the building. But don’t be discouraged by this because, with the proper selection of materials, you can resolve this problem and still get a fair amount of energy savings with insulating the inner side of external walls and partition walls. Here are a few common examples why insulation is so important:

Condensation in kitchens and bathrooms

Cold walls in rooms with have increased moisture and humidity levels are prone to mold growth. Kitchens and bathrooms are areas that usually have this type of problem. The best way to solve this problem is setting up a vapor barrier and a thermal insulating layer, with vapor and moisture resistant drywall lining finish. Remember that this type of insulation will thicken your walls for a minimum of 5cm, depending on the wall structure.

Cold floors above basements

This is often the case in offices or homes that are located on the ground floor. Cold floors occur due to poor insulation of the floor itself, but you can deal with this easily. Installing a layer of insulation between the floor rafters is a quick solution that doesn’t increase the floor height. If you are able to insulate the basement ceiling that’s even better, because not all floors have the same rafter structure, especially in the modern buildings.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Before the work can begin remember to consult a qualified person because

you have to fallow certain building codes when doing this type of construction work.

Bedrooms and living rooms with two external walls

Rooms with two exterior walls are typically the coldest areas of the house in winter and warmest in summer. Sleeping in a place where walls easily transfer heat can often cause health problems, in addition to energy loss. To stop this from happening, the simplest method is to use insulating boards. But if you have a condensation problem in those walls, choose carefully between different insulation products, because not all materials are made to resist moisture and mold growth.

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