Saving heat leads to financial savings. It is unreasonable to waste heat and heat the street, while modern technologies allow you to take care of saving heat resources already at the stage of construction and renovation.
The main part of the responsibility for heat preservation falls on those parts of the building that are most in contact with the environment, participating in heat exchange with it.
These are the walls, roof and floor of the building. It is through them that the heat leaves the room, and the cold gets inside. The use of energy-saving materials allows not only to minimize heat losses, but also to reduce the thickness of the walls, reduce the time of their construction, and reduce the total cost of construction.
Thermal insulation materials and products have an important effect on quality, cost, and most importantly, on the cost of operating buildings and structures.

Their use contributes to the creation of comfortable conditions in the premises, protects parts of the building from temperature fluctuations and extends the service life of building structures.
The modern trend in determining the quality of heaters by measuring the level of their thermal resistance has gradually moved to determining what types of radiation they are able to protect.
In addition, there is a division of thermal insulation materials according to their intended purpose. Their shape and appearance may be different. There are rigid piece insulation (bricks, slabs, cylinders, segments), flexible (mats, bundles, cords) and bulk (vermiculite, cotton wool, perlite sand).

The structure of insulation can be fibrous (fiberglass, mineral wool materials), cellular (foam glass, cellular concrete), granular (vermiculite, perlite).
The substances that make up the composition also determine the type of specific thermal insulation. By the type of their main raw materials, traditional heat-insulating materials are divided into organic (natural substances are used as raw materials for their manufacture), inorganic (the basis is mineral raw materials) and materials made from artificial plastics.
Thus, each of the heaters existing today can be classified according to several criteria at once.
No comparison of thermal insulation materials is possible without determining which element is more suitable for which coating.

When deciding to insulate the floor, you need to know that such a solution will ensure a constant temperature in the house.
Comparing the characteristics of thermal insulation materials, it is possible to select for this purpose the coating that will withstand the constant pressure exerted on it.
Good compression performance is important. One of the requirements for the material is to maintain its insulating properties, even if moisture penetrates inside, and the coating is subjected to mechanical stress.
Expanded clay is often used for insulation, if it is possible to fill it up when pouring a concrete floor.
If your house has a basement, then to insulate the floor, you need to fix the insulation from the basement or cellar. For this, expanded polystyrene is used.

For walls, the classification of thermal insulation materials is somewhat different, it all depends on the place of application - inside or outside the room.
To insulate the house from the outside, mineral basalt wool is ideal, which is distinguished by its durability, lack of deformation. Also, it does not thicken and does not become thinner during long-term use.
From the inside, the walls are insulated, depending on the permissible insulation layer, sometimes the planning features do not allow making it large.
The most popular method is foam or mineral wool, but these are also the thickest options. More modern - ceramic-based paint, a thinner layer is required, and it is easier to comply with the tightness conditions. True, the choice of material is complicated by the fact that each option has its own dew point, and if the place that you are trying to cover exceeds the permissible value, then your isolation will not work.
For insulation of the ceiling, mineral wool is considered an irreplaceable leader, since it is easiest to put it in the required quantities in the frame of the rafter system or interfloor floors, and during operation in such places it is almost not threatened by anything (which could reduce the quality of insulation).
If you sacrifice the convenience of installation and the cheapness of mineral wool, then slag or sawdust with clay could become the best means to preserve heat, but the volume and hassle of work, and the high price of the material still do not make them popular.
One name "mineral wool" unites several types of insulation at once: stone, glass and slag wool.
Mineral wool is obtained by processing rock melts or metallurgical slags. Synthetic binders are added to the resulting glassy fiber. Possesses good heat and sound insulation characteristics; when wet, these qualities of mineral wool are significantly reduced. This insulation is not flammable.

Characteristics of mineral wool
Thermal conductivity, W / (m * K): 0.039-0.054
Flammability group: NG, G1, G2
Resistance to deformation: medium
Water and bio-resistance: low
Destruction temperature, ° С: 350
Density, kg / cu. m: 75-350
Service life, years: 20-30

Stone wool

Stone wool is a fibrous heat-insulating material produced in the form of slabs, rolls.
Stone wool is characterized by a low level of thermal conductivity. Its production is a process of melting metallurgical slags, various types of rocks. Moreover, the highest quality product is made from gabbro-basalt rocks.

Stone wool belongs to the class of non-combustible (NG) materials, which makes it possible to use it at various production facilities, as well as in private construction in conditions of elevated temperatures - up to 1000 ° C.
Fire resistance is complemented by moisture resistance. Stone wool, being a hydrophobic material, does not absorb moisture; on the contrary, it is water-repellent.
Thermal insulation, while remaining dry, does not lose its performance properties over time. These two properties (incombustibility and hydrophobicity) make it possible to use cotton wool for insulating premises with high temperature and humidity conditions, such as baths, saunas, and boiler rooms.
Strength in the case of stone wool is not directly dependent on density. Cotton wool, being a fairly soft material, has a known level of strength. Compressive strength at 10% deformation is in the range of 5–80 kPa.
The structural stability of cotton wool is due to the special vertical and chaotic arrangement of the fibers.
Stone wool is an anti-corrosion material. Contacting with metals and concrete, it does not initiate chemical reactions. Biological resistance guarantees the material's resistance to the effects of fungi and mold, insects and rodents.
Basalt is the main raw material for the production of stone wool. Basalt raw materials are processed with formaldehyde resins, which gives it the required level of strength.
Modern production technologies make it possible to completely eliminate the content of phenols from the material even at the stage of its production.
The product that reaches the end consumer is an environmentally friendly heat-insulating material that can be used to insulate building facades, roofs and floors of industrial and residential premises, as well as premises with extreme temperature and humidity conditions.
Rock wool from rocks is the choice for long-term and high-quality thermal insulation.

Glass wool

Fiberglass is a fibrous thermal insulation material made from molten glass.
Insulation based on it is available in two forms: hard plates and soft roll mats.

The finished product is characterized by a high level of strength and elasticity. Safe recycled formaldehyde resins also serve as a binder for glass fibers.
Not all the performance properties of fiberglass insulation are close to those of stone wool. The plasticity of the material facilitates the process of working with it, allowing the insulation to be compressed up to 4 times during installation.
During operation, fiberglass insulation is capable of sagging and slightly changing its original shape.
Glass fiber is hygroscopic, i.e. is able to accumulate moisture, accumulating it from the air (especially humid and cold).
Taking into account these properties of the material, it is often covered with a special waterproof film or foil, thus compensating for the moisture absorption property.

Glass wool is characterized by chemical and biological resistance.
The maximum temperature for using fiberglass insulation is limited to 650 ° C.
Glass wool is an excellent soundproofing material. The space of the fiberglass insulation absorbs sound waves well, thanks to which it is successfully used not only as a heat insulator, but also as a sound insulator.
Glass wool is used where it will not experience mechanical stress. As a rule, these are building facades, roof spaces, space under floors. Often, its use implies the use of additional external protective layers, such as fiberglass or roofing felt.
Ventilated facade systems are usually equipped with glass and stone wool.
Glass wool in the form of separate fractions of glass fiber is used to insulate hard-to-reach elements of building structures by blowing.

Styrofoam

Polyfoam is a solid slab material used to insulate walls, ceilings, floors and roofs of buildings. It is used both for external insulation of buildings and for internal ones. It is based on expanded polystyrene foam granules.
It is made in the form of slabs up to 2 m long, up to 1 m wide. The thickness is from 2 to 50 cm. All parameters can vary, therefore the foam insulation is selected individually based on specific needs.
In everyday life, the word "foam" refers to all synthetic cellular plastics with low density, which have a large number of non-communicating cavities.

Depending on the characteristics of the manufacturing process, one of two main types of foam can be obtained from the raw materials:
porous plastic (a porous substance in the structure of which there are cavities communicating with each other). In turn, poroplastics can be different: polyurethane foam, polyvinyl chloride foam, polystyrene foam and mipora;
the foam itself (the substance formed as a result of foaming of the feedstock. The contents of the isolated granules of the material do not come into contact with neighboring cells and the environment).
Expanded polystyrene is a material of the class of plastics, characterized by a cellular structure. Differs in high water and biological resistance, low specific gravity.
A characteristic feature of expanded polystyrene is low fire resistance, therefore it is usually used at temperatures not exceeding 150 ° C. Combustion of expanded polystyrene is accompanied by the release of a large amount of smoke and toxic substances.
To prevent such consequences, flame retardants are added to this type of insulation during production. Such expanded polystyrene is called self-extinguishing and the letter "C" is added to its name at the end.
The soundproofing qualities of polystyrene foam are low.

Characteristics of expanded polystyrene
Thermal conductivity, W / (m * K): 0.04
Flammability group: G3, G4
Resistance to deformation: high
Water and bio-resistance: high
Destruction temperature, ° С: 160
Density, kg / cu. m: 10-100
Service life, years: 20-50

The production of foam plates is carried out by thermal bonding and pressing of expanded polystyrene granules. Due to their granular structure, foam boards consist of more than 95% air, which makes them a unique thermal insulation material.
To ensure the level of thermal conductivity that a 30 mm foam layer possesses, it is necessary to build a brick wall, which should be almost 15 times thicker. And in the case of a reinforced concrete structure, this level rises up to 35 times!

The operational properties of foam make it a fairly popular material in the thermal insulation market:
Polyfoam has a high level of strength to mechanical stress. This level is significantly higher than that of mineral wool;
Polyfoam is a moisture resistant material. It practically does not absorb water, which makes it possible to use it as a basement insulation for buildings in direct contact with the ground;
With foam insulation, the building retains the ability to air exchange. At the same time, the level of windproofness is not reduced;
The ecological purity of the material is due to the absence of harmful impurities in it. It contains only two chemical compounds: carbon and hydrogen;
Possessing sound-insulating properties, the foam can be used for the needs of insulation and sound insulation at the same time;
The service life of foam insulation is limited only by the service life of the building. The resistance to corrosion is due to the moisture resistance of the material. During the operation of the foam, there is no change in its dimensions: shrinkage, displacement.
The main parameter of the foam, which determines the place of application and the specifics of installation, is its density. It depends on where you can use a specific type of foam insulation. So, foam crumbs are used for bulk work, for insulating floors, the space between floors, while a rigid foam sheet is used to insulate the foundation of a building.

Spray polyurethane foam

Spray Polyurethane Foam - Spray applied polyurethane foam. This insulation contains polyester polyol, polyisocyanate and various additives.
The technology of its application involves spraying with a supply pump or mixing the components directly on the surfaces to be insulated.

The adhesion properties of sprayed polyurethane foam allow it to be applied to horizontal and vertical surfaces. At the same time, it is reliably fixed on a variety of bases: concrete, gas silicate blocks, plaster, metal, roofing material. Excellent adhesion and moisture resistance characteristics make this heat insulator widely used.
Sprayed polyurethane foam is successfully used for insulation of external and internal walls, pitched and flat roofs, basements, basements and foundations of buildings, insulation of joints between parts of various building structures.
The method of applying the material by uniform spraying ensures that there are no joints and gaps between the areas of the coating. This increases the thermal insulation properties of the material, because the continuous coating layer does not have "cold points" that cause freezing of the structure.
Speaking about the shortcomings of this material, first of all, it should be noted that it is unsuitable for use in combination with wood.
Of course, the adhesion of the insulation allows it to be applied to wooden surfaces as well. But wood treated with sprayed polyurethane foam soon loses its physical and chemical qualities and is subject to decay.
This happens due to the cessation of air exchange between wood and the atmosphere. Moisture that gets into the layer of wood does not find a way out, and the material undergoes destruction.

Extruded polystyrene foam

Extruded polystyrene foam is one of the synthetic thermal insulation materials that belongs to the group of polystyrene foam.
It is made from expanded polystyrene raw materials by extrusion - molding of molten substance under pressure. In this case, a special agent is added to the feedstock, providing foaming and obtaining the required structure of the finished product.

The low level of thermal conductivity and water absorption ensures the resistance of the heat-insulating material to the effects of precipitation and temperature changes.
The structure of the material guarantees strength - something that is so lacking in conventional foam. The use of extruded polystyrene foam boards in those places of buildings where they will be exposed to mechanical stress is becoming available. The strength of the material determines its unpretentiousness to the installation process.
Insulation boards can be laid on a sand cushion. At the same time, they will not be deformed due to mechanical pressure, and also will not absorb moisture from the soil.
The very process of mounting plates of extruded polystyrene foam is simple and convenient. The material is easily cut into pieces of the required size, without crumbling and spraying. Fastening of expanded polystyrene plates is carried out using adhesives and mounting dowels.

There are no complaints about the articles of chemical and biological resistance to extruded polystyrene foam. The material does not deteriorate under the influence of oil products, acids and alkalis, and its composition and structure make it unsuitable for the appearance and growth of fungi, as well as for eating by rodents and insects.
Among the disadvantages of this heat-insulating material, it should be noted that it is not resistant to fire. At the same time, the combustion of polystyrene foam also releases toxic compounds.
This property of the material must be taken into account, providing it with additional protective insulation against fire. This insulation is afraid not only of open fire, but also of direct sunlight. Under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, its upper layers can change their structure and collapse.
This factor must also be taken into account when installing thermal insulation from extruded polystyrene foam.

Ecowool

Ecowool (cellulose insulation) is a heat-insulating material made on the basis of paper and cardboard waste paper. At the same time, the properties of cotton wool are largely determined by the substances that make up its composition. So, Western manufacturers use, in addition to recycled cellulose, sawdust, cotton waste, hay.
Ecowool or cellulose wool, as a rule, consists of 81% processed cellulose, 12% antiseptic, and 7% flame retardants. The fibers of the material contain lignin, which, when moistened, imparts stickiness.
All components of this material are non-toxic, non-volatile, natural components harmless to humans.
Cellulose insulation does not support combustion, does not rot, has good heat and sound insulation.
Ecowool is able to hold up to 20% moisture, which almost does not affect the thermal insulation properties. The material easily releases moisture into the environment and does not lose its properties when dry.
The cleanliness level of ecowool depends on what chemicals were used in the manufacture of the material. Ammonium phosphates and sulfates, widely used as fire retardants in the production of ecowool in the West, are characterized by an increased content of harmful substances.
In addition, the exploited insulation, which has these compounds in its composition, loses its operational properties over time. In particular, the ability to resist combustion.
Domestic manufacturers use borax (borax) as a fire retardant, which guarantees the absence of unsafe chemical compounds and an unpleasant smell of ammonia, as well as the constancy of the practical properties of the material.
When choosing ecowool, special attention should be paid to what substances are used in it as fire retardants and antiseptics.

Ecowool characteristics
Thermal conductivity, W / (m * K): 0.036-0.041
Flammability group: G1, G2
Resistance to deformation: low
Water and bio-resistance: medium
Destruction temperature, ° С: 220
Density, kg / cu. m: 30-96
Service life, years: 30-50

There are 3 ways to use ecowool: dry, wet and wet glue.
They are realized using special blowing equipment.
With small volumes and low complexity of work, thermal insulation with ecowool can be carried out manually.

It is important to properly carry out work on blowing and compaction of ecowool, so that voids do not form in the future and the insulation does not sink.
The practical advantages that distinguish this thermal insulation material include:
ecological cleanliness;
high degree of adhesion;
the possibility of using in hard-to-reach places;
the formation of a single seamless layer during application;
fire resistance (when used as a fire retardant borax);
moisture resistance (capable of absorbing a large amount of moisture, gradually releasing it into the surrounding space).
Thus, the room maintains an optimal microclimate with a humidity level of 40–45%;
long service life.
Among the disadvantages of ecowool should be called the complexity of manual application to the treated surfaces and the impossibility of organizing a "floating floor" due to the softness of the material.

Penoizol

Urea foam (penoizol) is a modern heat and sound insulating material.
In accordance with GOST 16381-77, by the type of feedstock, penoizol refers to organic cellular urea foams; in terms of density - to the group of materials of especially low density (ONP) (density 8-28 kg / m3), and in terms of thermal conductivity - to the class of materials with low thermal conductivity (coefficient of thermal conductivity from 0.035-0.047 W / mChK).

Installations for the production of penoizol (urea foam) by foaming polymer resins appeared in the world about 50 years ago. In Russia, the creation of a similar technology for the production of penoizol was carried out by the employees of the VNII surfactant.
Penoizol is distinguished by its high resistance to fire, resistance to the action of microorganisms, ease of mechanical processing, and low price. The air content in penoizol reaches 90%.
The climatic tests of penoizol have shown that the time of reliable operation of penoizol as a non-bearing middle layer of three-layer structures of buildings is not limited. Tests of penoizol for fire resistance have shown that penoizol belongs to the group of hardly combustible materials.

Penoizol production technology is very simple. It consists in foaming a polymer resin with compressed air in a gas-liquid plant (gas-liquid plant) using a foaming solution and subsequent curing of the resulting souffle-like mass with a curing catalyst that is part of this solution.
The solution of the foaming agent with the curing catalyst and the resin are fed into the corresponding pumps into the foam generator, under pressure in the foam generator foam is formed, which is fed to the mixer. A dosed amount of resin is also fed there. After passing through the mixer, the mass of penoizol enters the feed hose and the final formation of penoizol takes place in it.
Penoizol can be poured into molds (followed by cutting into sheets) or poured directly on the construction site into technical cavities (walls, floors, etc.)

The main characteristics of penoizol:
Bulk density 8 ... 25
Thermal conductivity coefficient 0.031 ... 0.041
Compressive strength at 10% linear deformation, MPa 0.003 ... 0.025
Water absorption in 24 hours by volume,% no more than 18 ... 14
Sorption humidification by weight,% no more than 18
Operating temperature range, 0С - 60 ... + 90

Izokom

Isocom - Foil-clad material (on one or both sides).
One of the promising areas of energy conservation is the use of reflective insulation isokom.
This material is a polyethylene foam sheet laminated on one or both sides with polished aluminum foil.
Izokom is a unique multilayer heat, steam and sound insulating material.
The combination of a closed cell extruded polyethylene foam backing with trapped air and reflective, highly polished, pure aluminum foil gives the material exceptional heat-reflecting properties and maximum thermal resistance with a minimum insulation thickness.
When properly installed, Isocom is extremely effective as thermal insulation throughout the entire building perimeter.
Environmentally friendly material, CFC-free, does not deplete the ozone layer.
Does not contain glass or basalt fiber, other materials harmful to the human body.
Durability over 50 years without changing properties. Does not rot or deformed throughout the entire service life.
Simple and easy to install, saves working time. Does not require special devices and mechanisms for installation.
Reliable protection against moisture and steam.
Effectively prevents sound propagation in all types of buildings Has great elasticity and physical tensile and compressive strength.

Specifications:
Thermal conductivity according to GOST 7076-99: Thermal resistance (per 1 mm. Thickness):> 0.031 m2 OS / W
Application temperature: from -60 C to + 80 C
Flammability group: G2 in accordance with GOST 30244-94
Smoke-generating ability: D2 in accordance with GOST 12.1.044-89
Flammability group: B1 in accordance with GOST 30402-96
Water absorption in 24 hours by volume: 2%
Water vapor permeability: 0 mg / m h Pa

Isocom application:
As a heat shield behind radiators: Reduces heat loss on the outer wall, increases the efficiency of heating devices by 30% or more! Promotes an even distribution of heat energy inside the room.

Thermal insulation of walls along the perimeter of the building: Inside the building, isokom is laid, covering the massive thermal insulation, with a reflective surface inside the room and closed with wall panels while maintaining an air gap of at least 15 mm. The massive insulation receives protection from the damaging effects of water vapor and greater heat resistance, plus the reflectivity of the isocom.
Thermal insulation of floors: With thermal insulation of floors using isocom, heat fluxes, reflected from the foil layer, do not enter the supporting structures under the floor, which avoids the formation of condensation.
For thermal insulation of the under-roof space, a double-sided isocom is attached behind massive insulation on counter-rails with a slight sag to provide an air gap of at least 15-20 mm.
The double-sided reflective surface, on the one hand, prevents the massive insulation under the roof from overheating, reflecting solar energy, on the other, it reflects the thermal energy inside the room, eliminating heat loss and making the climate in the house even.

At any temperature regime, thermal insulation will not hurt. If done correctly, it will become noticeably warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Insulation of the walls allows you to create a comfortable microclimate, as for not only residential apartments and houses, but also premises for work. By visiting the store, you can make sure that modern manufacturers offer a wide range of thermal insulation for sale. It has the form of bundles, rolls, granules, powders, and also perlite sand. In addition, thermal insulation can be represented by slabs, blocks, bricks and cylinders.

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

The first type allows you to reduce heat consumption, which is ensured by a decrease in infrared radiation. Preventive 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 Preventative 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 the modern market, and natural raw materials are used for their manufacture, for example, waste from the woodworking industry and the agricultural industry. 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 up above 150 ° C. Organic insulation is used as an inner layer when constructing multilayer structures. This should include plastered facades or triple panels.

Characteristics of wood concrete insulation

Thermal insulation on an organic basis is just wood concrete insulation, which is a new building material made of:

It is based on chemical elements and cement. The additives are:

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

At the final stage of the manufacture of wood concrete insulation, the material is processed with a mineralizer. This type of insulation has a density ranging from 500 to 700 kg / m 3. 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 ultimate bending strength, it reaches 1 MPa.

Appointment and use of wood concrete

Considering the above type of insulation, 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 for floor and roof insulation. 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 - fire concrete, the filler of which is a hemp fire.

Arbolite blocks for thermal insulation are laid after applying a layer of the assembly mixture. Next, a block is installed, which must first be moistened with water. The product is pressed against the previous one, its position can be corrected 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, then the material will shrink.

Characteristics of chipboard insulation

Considering the types of insulation, you should pay attention to the chipboard insulation, which is based on small shavings. It is 9/10 of the volume of the material, but the rest is an antiseptic agent, synthetic resins, a water repellant and an antiprene. The density of this material is 1000 kg / m 3 maximum. The minimum value is 500.

You may also be interested in humidity, for this insulation it varies from 5 to 12%. The tensile strength reaches 0.5 MPa. The absorption of the material 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 a particular solution, you must consider the types and characteristics of insulation. Among other options, one should highlight polyurethane foam thermal insulation, which is based on polyester. The ingredients are added:

The components under the influence of the catalyst enter into a chemical reaction, and a new substance is formed. It is characterized by a high level of noise absorption, is not afraid of moisture and is chemically inert. Polyurethane foam insulation is an excellent insulation, because it is applied by spraying, so the master has the opportunity to process the ceiling and walls with a complex configuration. In this case, cold bridges are excluded.

This sprayed insulation has a density that reaches 80 kg / m 3. When this figure reaches 50 kg / m 3, the polyurethane foam becomes moisture resistant. You may also be interested in the coefficient of thermal conductivity, 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 insulation is used to insulate interior and exterior walls, window openings, etc. This material can be found on construction sites of capital residential buildings, cottages, individual houses, warehouse hangars, potato storage facilities and vegetable stores.

This sprayed insulation has quite important advantages, which are expressed in bearing and heat-insulating properties. Efficiency is enhanced when polyurethane foam forms the basis of sandwich panels used in the construction of prefabricated civil buildings. The latter can also be used for industrial purposes. The cold resistance of the material is quite high, as is the waterproofing ability.

Fiberboard characteristics

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

The material is not afraid of biological and chemical influences, perfectly protects against noise and can be used in humid conditions, for example in swimming pools. This insulation for the house has a density of up to 500 kg / m 3. 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 floor. As for the features of use, the plates are installed in parallel at a certain distance, which will determine the thickness of the wall. After fastening, pouring is carried out with a solution, most often with concrete. Then the system of liquid mixture and formwork is left until it hardens.

Ecowool characteristics

Ecowool is made from paper and cardboard production waste. If you use waste paper for this, then the material will not be of such high quality. It will become polluted faster, in addition, it will be characterized by heterogeneity. Among other important characteristics, sound insulation should be highlighted, which in this case is very high. The layer, which is 1.5 cm thick, will absorb 9 dB of background noise.

The capacity for thermal insulation is also impressive, but the disadvantage is its decrease 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 according to the continuous spraying method, there are no seams, which is an undoubted advantage.

Purpose and use of ecowool

The coating is widely used for sound and heat insulation of various premises, which can have industrial, residential and public purposes. And you can use the material for thermal insulation of the facade, insulation of walls, roofs and attics. Most of the work is carried out by dry blowing, but the material can be applied over the existing insulation.

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

Cellulose insulation for the roof can be used in the repair of existing facilities and in the construction of new ones. Open blowing is used to isolate horizontal and inclined surfaces, among which should be highlighted:

Inorganic heat insulators: mineral wool

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

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

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

Choosing Rockwool insulation, you will need to understand its varieties. Among others, the LIGHT BATTS SCANDIC should be highlighted. This material is 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 parameters of the product are 800 x 600 x 50 mm, while in the second they are equal to 1200 x 600 x 150 mm. Basalt insulation is a 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, the material on a metal or wooden frame is much easier to install.

Foil-coated thermal insulation: 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 are also important. When laying such a layer on the floor, it is possible to increase the heat transfer from the radiators, insulate the air ducts and pipelines. An excellent effect can be achieved by installing foil-clad insulation on entrance doors, balconies, verandas and in the canopy. 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-clad construction tape. The foil should be inward. It is a reflector and will return heat radiation inward. Sometimes the insulation is laid on the other side, but this effect can no longer be achieved.

Appointment of insulation brand "Isover"

Insulation "Isover" is a material made of mineral wool. It is sold in slabs and rolls, and is also made on the basis of high quality stone fiber. Thermal insulation is made from natural materials, including:

With the help of insulation "Isover" it is possible to achieve excellent heat and sound insulation of buildings. This solution is used to insulate the facades of houses, roofs and walls, and also acts as an excellent thermal insulation for the floor. Insulation with roll insulation allows you to obtain a low coefficient of surface thermal conductivity. The material has a special fiber structure that 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 distinguished. This solution is distinguished by its high resistance to aggressive environments and impressive durability. Such a heater is produced for pipes in the form of tubes of different diameters. The pores have a closed structure, which ensures that no moisture is absorbed from the external environment.

Some brands of such heaters are foil-clad and 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 snug fit to the surface. Polyurethane foam withstands extremely high and low temperatures, while the properties are not reduced, and each cell remains sealed.

Thermal insulation from the manufacturer "Technonikol"

Insulation "Technonikol" 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-combustible material, and the fibers melt only at a temperature of 1000 ° C and above. This thermal insulation ensures the sound-absorbing and acoustic properties of the surfaces. Mineral insulation includes:

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

Application of siding with thermal insulation

Siding with a layer of thermal insulation is installed in several stages. On the first, it is necessary to strengthen the angular and side-type strips to the surface. Before starting these works, it is necessary to carry out the markup, draw the lines that you will be guided by during the working process. After that, you can start installing siding with insulation.

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

Thermal insulation for plastering

Many different materials can be used under plaster to insulate walls. For this, mineral wool, which has been popular for many years, is suitable. Foam plastic also acts as a heater for walls under the plaster. However, it has a number of restrictions on its use. This is expressed in low resistance to high temperatures. This applies even to the most modern types of foam, which have special flame retardants in their composition.

Conclusion

On the modern market of building materials for thermal insulation of various surfaces, a huge variety of solutions are presented. Before making a choice, you must evaluate several factors, among others and the most important, it is necessary to highlight the technical characteristics. The purpose and features of the operation of thermal insulation depend on them. If you do not comply with the requirements that apply to the external environment when installing insulation, you may encounter its low efficiency and the need to replace the heat-insulating layer.

Insulation: types, characteristics, purpose and application

At any temperature regime, thermal insulation will not hurt. If done correctly, it will become noticeably warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Insulation of the walls allows you to create a comfortable microclimate, as for not only residential apartments and houses, but also premises for work.

Overview of types and characteristics of heaters, their areas of application

Today the market offers the consumer various types of heaters, differing in cost, installation and thermal conductivity coefficient. 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 in the construction of a house.

A comprehensive assessment of the material will help you to choose the insulation for your home correctly. 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. Each unit of the house is insulated with different materials.

External insulation of the 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 decoration of basements. Penoplex, being under the ground, is protected from fire and retains all its properties.

Heat insulators for exterior wall decoration of the house are chosen depending on the material from which the structural element is built. It is best to blow out wooden houses with penoizol. 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 building, they tend to use glass wool more because of 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. From above, they are closed with a vapor barrier, which prevents moisture from penetrating to the mats and fluffy fibers inside the room. If there is a lag, the overlap is blown out with ecowool. For insulation of the floor, 100 mm backfill is made with expanded clay, plus foam plates are laid. A concrete screed poured from above prevents the insulation from burning, and the reinforcing mesh gives strength to the floors.

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

Insulation correctly selected according to its characteristics will create comfortable living conditions inside the premises.

Insulation materials overview

Preventative types of insulation are most often used to decorate various elements of the structure of a house. They have a low thermal conductivity.

Heaters on an organic basis are made from wood and agricultural waste. To improve the properties, cement and plastic are added to natural raw materials. The result is insulation that is resistant to fire and moisture. It can withstand heating up to 150 degrees. The area of ​​application is extensive, but it is mainly used as an 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 of the cement, which is reflected by a high density - 800 kg / m3. Designed for wall construction.
• Thermal insulation - it has a lower density of 500 kg / m3 and a higher proportion of wood filler. It is used as a heat insulator for load-bearing walls, as well as for the construction of partitions.

According to the form of release, it happens:

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

If we talk about the shape of the finished product, then it is represented by even blocks of different sizes, blocks with a depression 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 the ecowool from being eaten by rodents and insects. Antipyrins create a self-extinguishing effect, which increases resistance to heating up to +232 ° C. Ecowool has a high moisture absorption rate of 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 floor insulation, 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 plates. The basis of the insulation is cork oak bark. The natural suberin glue contained in it makes it possible to abandon artificial adhesives. The cork is insect-resistant and 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 use as a substrate for a laminate. The price of such a natural material is quite high. Depending on the modifications, the cost ranges from 800 to 4 thousand. RUB / m2.

Sotoplast heat insulator

The structure of the material consists of hexagonal cells like a honeycomb. Inside, they are filled with epoxy resin-bonded fabric or paper filler. Phenolic resins can be used as a fixer. 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 density of the sheet can be from 230 to 500 kg / m2.

Polyvinyl chloride foam

Heat insulator PPVH is made of foamed resins. This structure is given to them by the porization method. The material is produced soft and hard, which gives it versatility. PPVC is suitable for insulation of roofs, floors and walls. Its density is 0.1 kg / m3.

Many people think that chipboard is just a building material. But as a heater, the plates have proven themselves on the good side. They are based on small sawdust bonded with synthetic resin. The density of the slabs ranges from 500 to 1 thousand kg / m3, and the water absorption is 5–30%.

The use of chipboard as insulation is justified for floors, walls and ceilings. The cost of sheets is quite low, suitable for every developer's pocket. Depending on the size, the sheet can be bought for 400-900 rubles. Plates are used as a base for installing a soft roof.

Fiberboard

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

The area of ​​application is the same as for chipboard. Low cost ranges up to 800 rubles. per sheet.

Polyurethane foam

Lightweight insulation has a unique closed pore 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 the polyurethane foam is about 0.028 W / m / K.

PPU is applied to the surface to be insulated by spraying, which allows you to process any complex areas. The optimal use of polyurethane foam is insulation of the roof and wooden walls of the house. The cost of the material, together 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 aqueous emulsion of urea-formaldehyde resin. Glycerin and sulfonic acid are used as additives. The mipora is delivered to the consumer in blocks or crumbs. It is used in liquid form at a construction site. Mipore, poured into prepared cavities, hardens at a positive temperature.

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

Styrofoam and extruded polystyrene foam

These two insulation materials are composed 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. Styrofoam consists of small balls, and when broken, expanded polystyrene resembles foam rubber.

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

Mineral wool is a common insulation for walls and roofs. It is of two types:

• slag wool is made of dissimilar metal casting waste;
• stone wool is made from rocks such as 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 larger fibers. The production is based on 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 not more than 130 kg / m3. Glass wool is also popular for roof and wall insulation.

Ceramic wool

Produced by blowing zirconium, silicon or alumina. 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 not more than 350 kg / m3. It is used for insulating facades and roofs of buildings.

Mixed type insulation

They produce materials 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 to dry completely.

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

Reflective materials

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

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

The main types of heaters considered today and their characteristics will help to make the right choice of material for certain construction needs.

Insulation - types and characteristics, application, price of materials

Review of heaters 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 selection of heaters 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, consider their characteristics in this article! Correctly 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, under its “protection” it will not only be warmer in the house in winter, but also noticeably cooler in summer.

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

What types of insulation and what to use?

The main types of insulation

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

Quite rigid piece insulation (plates, segments, cylinders, etc.), flexible products (cords, wide and narrow mats, bundles), as well as loose products (perlite sand, vermiculite and cotton wool) are on sale.

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

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

How to choose a heater?

Floor insulation

The decision to insulate the floor is sometimes due to 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 one that can withstand the considerable pressure exerted on it. In this case, its performance during compression will be important.

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

Types of wall insulation

Insulation for the walls of the house

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, the ideal is the use of basalt mineral wool, which is characterized by its ability to keep its shape and durability. In the process of even long-term operation, it does not become thinner, does not cake or thicken.

From the inside of the building, insulation is carried out based on the possible permissible insulating layer: the features of the layout do not always make it possible to make it sufficiently voluminous.

More modern way- use of paint with a ceramic base. Its layer can be small, and it is much easier to comply with the tightness conditions.

Ceiling and its insulation

Mineral wool for ceiling insulation

For insulation of the ceiling, mineral wool is constantly in high demand..

This is not at all surprising: it can be simply laid out in the interfloor ceilings or in the rafter frame, in the amount necessary for this. In the process of operation, nothing threatens it there, thereby ensuring an initially high quality of insulation.

If we neglect the unique qualities of cotton wool and the ease of its installation, then sawdust with clay or ordinary slag could be other suitable means for thermal insulation. However, these substances have not found widespread use due to their considerable cost and rather complicated installation process.

Mineral wool

This name brings together several different subspecies of this type of thermal insulation material. 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 heat insulation qualities, moreover, it is not flammable, and therefore does not pose a fire hazard. But a huge part of the remarkable qualities of the insulation can be irretrievably lost when it gets wet. This should be taken into account.

Stone wool

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

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

The complete fire resistance of the insulation is complemented by its excellent resistance to moisture. It 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 working qualities. The unique properties of basalt wool make it possible to use it even in boiler rooms, baths and saunas, where both high humidity and high temperature are combined. Strength in this case is not directly related to the density of the material.

This is a fairly soft material, while having a sufficient margin of safety. Its structural stability is due to the special arrangement of the individual constituent fibers - chaotic and vertical. The material has high anti-corrosion properties.

It can quite peacefully coexist with concrete and metal, without the occurrence of all sorts of chemical reactions. High biological resistance makes it immune 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, and the organic insulation burned out

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

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

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

Glass wool

This fibrous material is made from a mass of molten glass. On its basis, two types of insulation can be found on the market - soft mats rolled into rolls and hard slabs.

The product is characterized by high strength and excellent resilience. Recycled formaldehyde resins are used as the adhesion, or binder, as in the previous case.

Although not all the wonderful properties of basalt wool are inherent in glass counterparts, it has its own special qualities. She has high plasticity, which greatly 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 initial shape. Glass fiber is highly hygroscopic and can accumulate moisture from the external environment, accumulating it in its thickness.

We insulate the frame house with foam plastic

Polyfoam is quite solid, holding its shape, plate material, widely used for thermal insulation of roofs, walls, floors and ceilings: both outside and inside. It is based on expanded polystyrene foam granules.

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

Depending on the manufacturing process, two different types of foam can be produced using virtually the same raw material:

• a porous material is called a porous substance, the individual cavities of which communicate with each other. Further, they are also subdivided into mipora, polyvinyl chloride foam, polyurethane foam and polystyrene foam;
• directly foam - the contents of individual granules in it are not in contact with the environment and adjacent cavities.

Expanded polystyrene

Styrofoam in the form of bricks

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

• light;
• hard;
• not afraid of water;
• biological contamination.
• But due to its low fire resistance, it is recommended to use it at t not higher than 150 degrees.

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

Sprayed polyurethane foam

Spray on the wall

It is a foam 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 you to fearlessly apply it even on vertical surfaces. It has excellent adhesion to concrete, plaster, roofing material, metal, gas silicate blocks.

The material is quite successfully used for insulation:

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

This cellulose insulation is produced on the basis of cardboard and paper waste. Its properties are actually determined by the constituent substances. In addition to the usual recycled cellulose, some foreign manufacturers also use hay, cotton waste, sawdust. 81% of the material consists of carefully processed cellulose, 12 is a mandatory antiseptic.

The missing 7% comes from specially added flame retardants. Insulation fibers contain lignin, which becomes sticky when the humidity rises. All elements of the insulation are non-toxic, absolutely non-volatile and harmless to health. Cellulose insulation does not lend itself to combustion, decay processes, has excellent sound insulation and heat insulation performance.

Ecowool can hold approximately 20% moisture, while maintaining its working qualities. The material gives off moisture to the outside and dries quickly, retaining all its performance characteristics. 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. It is a honeycomb organic foam with a particularly low density and low thermal conductivity. The material has a high resistance to fire, resistance to the effects of microorganisms, and a low price. It is easy to handle and has an air content of 90%.

Insulation of the attic with penoizol

The tests carried out have demonstrated the capabilities of the material. It turned out that the time of its operation, as the middle layer of the frame structure, is actually not limited by anything. Tests of its fire resistance have shown that the material can be safely attributed to hardly combustible.

It is the only one of the used polymeric heat-insulating materials that is not at all adapted to self-combustion. Its fire resistance index assigns it to the G2 flammability subgroup.

This is a special foil material (on both sides or only one). It is a polyethylene foam fabric covered on the outside with highly polished aluminum foil. It is a multilayer steam, sound and heat insulating material that combines completely different qualities.

Isokom insulation with foil

With a minimum thickness of the insulating layer, it provides excellent reflection properties of the heat flux, successfully combined with the highest (almost maximum) thermal resistance. Properly installed material is characterized by extremely effective thermal insulation of the building along its entire contour.

It 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 human and animal health.

Without changing its exceptional properties, it serves for about 50 years, without deforming and not being damaged during all this time.

The installation is quite simple and very convenient: it does not need any 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 the house?

How to choose a heater? An overview of all types of insulation for walls, floors, ceilings, roofs, attic. Wooden and frame houses. Consider cheap options, find out!

The issue of building insulation is especially relevant today. On the one hand, there are no big problems with the purchase of heat-insulating material - the construction market offers many options. On the other hand, it is this variety 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 structural elements that reduce the heat transfer rates of materials and the structure (unit) as a whole.

Thermal insulation is also understood as a process that prevents the mixing of the thermal energy of the structure (refrigeration equipment, heating mains, etc.) and buildings with the external environment. In other words, the thermal insulation layer has a thermos effect.

Thermal insulation provides a comfortable indoor climate, keeping it warm during cold seasons and preventing excessive heat build-up on hot days.

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

Depending on the thermal conductivity, the following classes of heat-insulating materials are distinguished:

• class A- materials with low thermal conductivity within 0.06 W / m kV. and below;
• class B- materials with an average thermal conductivity, the indicators 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).
• Multilayer "pie"- a method in which the insulation is located inside the wall, between the outer and outer 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 base for the masonry).

• External insulation- one of the most popular, due to its effectiveness, method, which involves sheathing the outer walls with insulation, after which they are closed with facade materials. The organization of a ventilated facade allows to increase the thermal insulation performance, when an air gap remains between the wall with insulation and the facade finish. The method necessarily involves the use of vapor-permeable and waterproof coatings and films.
• Internal insulation- one of the most difficult and less effective in comparison with the external method of insulation. It involves the insulation of surfaces from the inside of the building.

Specifications

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

• Low thermal conductivity. Thermal efficiency indicators are the main ones when choosing a heater. 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 lower the heat loss of the material. The warmest is polyurethane foam, which has a thermal conductivity coefficient of 0.03. Average values ​​are about 0.047 (thermal conductivity index of expanded polystyrene, mineral wool grade P-75).
• Hygroscopicity. That is, the ability of the insulation to absorb moisture. High-quality insulation does not absorb moisture or absorbs a minimum amount of it. Otherwise, it is impossible to avoid getting the material wet, which means the loss of the main property (thermal efficiency).
• Vapor barrier. The ability to allow water vapor to pass through, thereby ensuring an optimal level of humidity in the room and keeping walls or other work surfaces dry.

• Fire resistance. Another important characteristic of a heat-insulating material is its 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). Most modern heaters are self-extinguishing materials. The appearance of open fire on their surface is almost impossible, and if it does occur, then 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%.

Combustion toxicity is usually mentioned when talking about fire resistance. The optimal material is that, even when heated, it does not emit hazardous toxic compounds.

• Environmental friendliness. Environmental friendliness is especially important for indoor materials. The key to environmental friendliness is usually the naturalness of the composition. So, for example, basalt insulation, considered safe from the point of view of environmental friendliness, is made from recycled rocks, expanded clay - from sintered clay.
• Soundproofing characteristics. Not all thermal insulation materials can be used for noise 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 a soundproofing effect.
• Biostability. Another criterion that is important for the buyer is biostability, that is, the resistance of the material to mold, fungus, the appearance of other microorganisms, rodents. The strength and integrity of the material, which means its durability, directly depends on biostability.

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

• Simplicity of laying and installation. Most of the heaters have a convenient form of release - 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 organs, hands).

There are also such types of heaters, the installation of which is possible only by specialists with 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 refers to the process of reducing heat loss to the calculated values ​​(individual for each region and objects). This term is similar to the concept of "thermal insulation", which means the protection of an object from the negative exchange of thermal energy with the air. In other words, the task of thermal insulation work is to maintain the specified temperature indicators of the object.

The object can mean residential and office 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.

Thermal insulation of external walls of residential buildings is always preferable to thermal insulation of internal parts. This is due to the fact that external thermal insulation turns out to be more effective, with internal thermal insulation there is always 8-15% heat loss.

In addition, the "dew point" with 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, the installation of insulation from the inside takes up space, reducing the usable area of ​​the room.

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 avoiding the unpleasant consequences of thermal insulation. Be sure to take care of the vapor and waterproofing of surfaces, as well as high-quality ventilation. A standard supply system is usually not enough, it is required 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 remains between the insulation and the facing material mounted on a special frame. The three-layer system consists of wall coverings erected by the well method, between which insulation is poured (expanded clay, perlite, ecowool).

As for the finishing, both "wet" (building mixtures are used) and "dry" facade (fasteners 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 immediately 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 isolate unheated attics and basements. When using an attic, you should consider a multilayer insulated roof system.

When carrying out internal thermal insulation work, great attention should be paid to the joints between the floor and the wall, the wall and the ceiling, the wall and partitions. It is in these places that "cold bridges" are most often formed.

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 heaters, depending on the raw materials used, are divided into:

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

There are also mixed products.

Depending on the principle of functioning, heaters are:

• reflective view- reduces heat consumption by directing heat energy back into the room (for this, the insulation is equipped with a metallized or foil-clad element);
• warning type- are characterized by low thermal conductivity, preventing the release of a large amount of thermal energy outside the insulated surface.

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

Ecowool

It is considered to be cellulose insulation, 80% consists of recycled cellulose. It is an environmentally friendly material with low thermal conductivity, good vapor permeability and sound insulation.

The addition of fire retardants and antiseptics to the raw material can reduce the flammability of the material and increase its biostability.

The material is poured into inter-wall spaces, it is possible to spray onto flat surfaces by dry or wet method.

Jute

A modern substitute for tow, traditionally used to reduce the heat loss of inter-crown gaps in timber buildings. It is produced in the form of ribbons or ropes, in addition to high thermal efficiency, does not require replacement even after the walls have shrunk.

Chipboard

Insulation, 80-90% consisting of fine shavings. The rest of the components are resins, fire retardants, water repellents. It differs not only in good heat, but also in sound insulation properties, is environmentally friendly, durable.

Despite the treatment with water repellents, it still does not have high moisture resistance.

Cork

Heat insulator based on cork oak bark, available in roll or sheet form. It is used only as an internal insulation. Acts as a basis for wallpaper, laminate and other floor coverings. It can be used as an independent topcoat due to its unusual but noble appearance. Often they insulate panel houses from the inside.

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

Arbolit

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

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

Expanded polystyrene

There are 2 known modifications of it - foamed (otherwise - foam) and extruded. It is a set of combined bubbles filled with air. The material to be extruded differs in that each air cavity is isolated from the adjacent one.

Polyfoam is suitable for external and internal insulation, characterized by high thermal insulation performance. It is not vapor-permeable, therefore it requires a reliable vapor barrier. It is worth noting the low moisture resistance of the foam, which makes the installation of waterproofing mandatory.

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

At first glance, foam is a worthy option for insulation. However, it should be remembered that during operation it emits toxic styrene. The most dangerous thing is that the material is subject to combustion. Moreover, the fire rapidly engulfs the foam, in the process of increasing temperatures, compounds hazardous to human health are released. This was the reason for the ban on the use of foam for interior decoration in some European countries.

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

Finally, this material is quite fond of mice - they gnaw it, which also does not contribute to long-term operation.

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

Polyurethane foam

Thermal insulation material sprayed onto the surface. It has the best thermal efficiency, due to the method of installation it forms a uniform hermetic layer on the surface, fills all cracks and seams. This becomes a guarantee of the absence of "cold bridges".

In the process of spraying, the material releases toxic components, therefore, it is applied only in a protective suit and a respirator. As the toxins solidify, they evaporate, therefore, during operation, the material demonstrates complete environmental safety.

Another advantage is incombustibility, even under the influence of high temperatures, the material does not emit hazardous compounds.

Among the disadvantages, one can single out low values ​​of vapor permeability, which is why the material is not even recommended to be applied to wooden bases.

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

Penofol

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, while not heating up.

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

Among the disadvantages is the higher cost, however, it is leveled by the impressive indicators of the heat resistance of the product. Its use can reduce heating costs by a third.

Despite the strength of the material, it is not suitable for wallpapering or plastering. Penofol will not withstand the load and will collapse, therefore the walls treated with it are closed with plasterboard. Finishing is already done on it. It can act as a heater not only for walls, but also for the ceiling and floor.

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

Fiberboard slabs

It is a wood-based board, bonded with a cement composition. Usually used for outdoor decoration, they can act as an independent building material.

They are characterized by heat and sound insulating properties, however, they have considerable weight (it is necessary to strengthen the foundation and supporting structures), as well as low moisture resistance.

Liquid ceramic insulation

A relatively new insulating material. Outwardly, it resembles acrylic paint (applied, by the way, in the same way), which contains evacuated bubbles. Thanks to them, the thermal insulation effect becomes possible (according to the manufacturers, a 1 mm layer replaces brickwork 1.5 bricks thick).

Ceramic insulation does not require a subsequent layer of finishing and does quite well with the function of a finishing material as well. 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 wet clean. The material is fire-resistant, non-combustible, moreover, it prevents the spread of flame.

Mineral wool insulation

This type of insulation is distinguished by a fibrous structure - the material is a random arrangement of fibers. Air bubbles accumulate between the latter, the presence of which provides a heat-insulating effect.

Available in the form of mats, rolls, sheets. Due to the ability to easily recover and maintain its shape, the material is easy to transport and store- it is rolled up and packed in compact boxes, and then easily takes the given shape and dimensions. Sheet material is usually thinner than other options.

Tiles, wall panels, siding, corrugated board for external cladding and clapboard or drywall (as cladding) for internal cladding are usually used as a facade coating.

When working, you must take care of the presence of a respirator. During installation, material particles rise into the air. Once in the lungs, they irritate the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract.

Depending on the raw materials used, 3 types of mineral wool are distinguished - based on slags, 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 demonstrates the best thermal insulation characteristics, the combustion temperature is 500 degrees. The material does not burn, but decreases in volume under the influence of temperatures above the indicated ones.

According to the description of users, the material is biostable and has an affordable price. Due to its elasticity, it is suitable for finishing buildings and structures of complex shapes and configurations. Among the shortcomings, one can note the low indicators of 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 into the skin, causing irritation. Finally, having an amorphous component (glass) in its composition, glass wool shrinks, gradually becoming thinner during operation, 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 subjected to pressing and short-term heating. The result is a durable, vapor-permeable insulation with low thermal conductivity.

Stone wool is treated with special impregnations, which makes it resistant to moisture. It is an environmentally friendly, non-combustible material for a wide range of applications.

Warm plaster

Plastering and finishing mixture, which contains particles of such heat-insulating materials as perlite, vermiculite.

Possesses good adhesion, fills cracks and joints, takes the given shape. Performs 2 functions at once - heat-insulating and decorative. Depending on the place of use, it can be on cement (for outdoor decoration) or gypsum (for indoor decoration) bases.

Foam glass

The basis of the material is glass recyclable materials, which are fired in high-temperature furnaces to the state of sintering. The result is an insulation material characterized by moisture resistance, high fire safety and biostability.

Possessing record strength indicators among other heaters, the material is easily cut, mounted, plastered. Release form - blocks.

Vermiculite

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

It is poured into inter-wall spaces or on 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 in warm plasters. This way it is possible to reduce the cost of raw materials for thermal insulation, but not to lose the brilliant technical properties of the material.

Expanded clay

Loose insulation known for a long time. It is based on a special clay that is sintered in the process of high-temperature firing. The result is extremely light "stones" (as well as crushed stone and sand) with high thermal insulation qualities. The material does not deform, is biostable, but 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.

For insulation, the material should not be poured into voids, but sprayed with a compressor. This is the only way to increase the density of the material, which means to increase its insulating capacity.

Penoizol

Outwardly it looks like small flakes (the material has a finer fraction in comparison with expanded polystyrene granules, softer). Natural resins are the basis. The main advantages are low thermal conductivity, moisture resistance and vapor permeability, fire resistance. Usually used for walls and ceilings, which are sprayed with special equipment.

Manufacturers

There are a large number of thermal insulation materials on the market today. Choosing the best products is not easy, especially if you are completely unfamiliar with the brands offered.

However, there are manufacturers whose products are a priori of high quality. Among them is the Danish stone wool manufacturer Rockwool. The product line is wide enough - a lot of materials of different forms of release, dimensions and density. The most popular is 10 cm cotton wool for outdoor decoration.

Among the most famous lines:

• "Light Batts"- material for insulation of private houses made of wood;
• "Light Batts Scandik"- material for insulation of private houses made of stone, concrete, brick;
• "Acustik Batts"- a material with improved soundproofing performance, used for the insulation of office buildings, shopping and entertainment establishments, industrial facilities.

The rating of producers of mineral wool materials is also invariably headed 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 facade counterparts. Universal insulation, options for pitched roofs, as well as mats with improved sound insulation characteristics are in demand.

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

High-quality heat and sound insulation materials are produced under the trademark Ursa. The following types of insulation can be found on sale:

• "Ursa Geo" a series of mats and rolls of various hardness for thermal insulation of all parts of the house, including basements and attic spaces;
• "Ursa Tetra"- slabs characterized by high strength and the presence of additional hydrophobic impregnation;
• "Ursa PureOne"- soft fiberglass with acrylic as a binding component. Due to the environmental friendliness of the material, it is suitable for use in hospitals and child care facilities;
• "Ursa XPS" represents polystyrene foam plates of increased rigidity.

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

Brand heaters are considered an excellent solution for organizing a ventilated facade. Izovol... The slabs are rigid enough to withstand loads, have moisture-resistant impregnation, and are additionally reinforced with fiberglass. The most popular are the following product lines:

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

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

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

• "Rocklight"- slabs with increased strength characteristics and intended for the insulation of a private house;
• "Technoblok"- a material suitable for the installation of facades acts simultaneously as a structural element and insulation;

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

A worthy place in the rating of manufacturers of materials for insulation is occupied by the Belarusian company "Beltep". The products are only slightly inferior in quality to European counterparts, but they have a more affordable cost. Among the advantages - a special hydrophobic impregnation, increased soundproofing qualities.

If you are looking for high-quality and relatively safe from the point of view of environmental friendliness expanded polystyrene, then you should pay attention to brand products Europlex... The manufacturer's product line includes both expanded 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's choice. So, the length of products can be 240, 180 and 120 cm, width - 50 or 60 cm, thickness - 3-5 cm.

Extruded polystyrene foam is also distinguished by high strength and increased moisture resistance. "Penoplex"... The experiments carried out demonstrate the frost resistance of the material. Even after 1000 freeze / thaw cycles, the thermal efficiency of the material is reduced by no more than 5%.

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

How to choose?

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

• For wooden walls, a related cellulose insulation, fiberglass or stone wool is suitable. True, it is necessary to carefully consider the waterproofing system. Jute will help to close the gaps between the joints. For frame-panel buildings, fiber cement slabs or wood concrete blocks can be used, which will act as wall structural elements. Between them, you can fill in bulk insulation (expanded clay, ecowool).
• For outdoor insulation, styrene foam insulation, mineral wool is well suited. When facing such buildings with bricks, it is permissible to fill in expanded clay, perlite, ecowool 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 sewn up with plasterboard sheets.
• Concrete surfaces with the worst thermal insulation performance are recommended to be insulated on both sides - external and internal. For outdoor insulation, it is better to choose a ventilated facade system. Warm plaster or hinged panels, siding are suitable as finishing materials. For interior decoration, you can use cork insulation, a thin layer of expanded polystyrene or mineral wool, decorated with drywall.

How to calculate?

Different insulation materials have different thicknesses, and it is very important to calculate the required parameters of the insulation before making a purchase. Too thin a layer of insulation 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 supporting structures and inappropriate financial costs, but will also cause a violation of the air humidity in the room, a temperature imbalance between different rooms.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

After finding the difference, you can calculate the required thickness of the insulation. The formula p = R * k will help in this, in which p will be the desired indicator of thickness, k is the thermal conductivity of the insulation used. If the result is not a round (whole) number, then it should be rounded up.

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

It is best to use calculators made by reputable manufacturers of thermal insulation materials. So, one of the most accurate is a calculator developed by the Rockwool brand.

• Modern mineral wool insulation is supplied in rolls, mats and sheets. The last 2 delivery options are preferable, since they are easier to join without forming gaps and cracks.
• When installing plate heaters, make sure that their width is 1.5-2 cm greater than the distance between the subsystem profiles. Otherwise, there will be a gap between the heat insulator and the profile, which risks becoming a "cold bridge".
• Insulation, which will be preceded by diagnostics, will be much more effective and efficient. To do this, use a thermal imager to determine the main areas of "leakage" of heat. This recommendation becomes relevant especially for thermal insulation of the internal parts of the building.

• Having identified the main points of heat loss (these are 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 method of insulation and the material used, the surface should be carefully prepared - it should be flat and clean. All existing joints and cracks should be repaired with cement mortar, unevenness should be repaired, and communication elements removed.
• The final stage of the preparatory work will be the application of a primer in 2-3 layers. It will provide an antiseptic effect and also improve the adhesion of surfaces.

• When using battens 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 heaters are stacked in several layers. The coincidence of joints between layers of different layers is unacceptable.
• Most of the glued heaters (expanded polystyrene, mineral wool) need additional fixing with dowels. The latter are fixed 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 should not be applied with a spray gun or similar devices. Thus, the ceramic shell can be damaged, which means that the composition can be deprived of its heat-insulating properties. It is more correct to apply the mixture with a brush or roller.
• If it is necessary to give the treated surface a certain shade, the ceramic insulation can be diluted with acrylic paint. It is necessary to apply the composition in 4-5 layers, waiting for each of the coatings to dry.
• Fixation of the cork cover can only be carried out on perfectly flat surfaces, otherwise a "cold bridge" will form in the space between the cover and the wall, and condensation will begin to accumulate. If it is impossible to level the walls by plastering, a solid plasterboard frame is mounted on which the "cork" is glued. To fix it, you need special glue.

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

Each part of the building needs "its own" insulation.

• For sloped roofs high density basalt slabs are recommended. You can also use polystyrene foam boards, but in this case it is important to provide 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. When using bulk materials, the thickness of the layer should be at least 200 mm, for plate heaters, 100 mm is enough.

• Wall insulation more often it is produced by means of foam, mineral wool, polyurethane foam spraying or ecowool. They should be chosen based on the structural features and their own financial capabilities. The most affordable will be foam, more expensive options are mineral wool and polyurethane foam.
• Floor insulation- the question is ambiguous. In a house with a low subfloor, it is more logical to perform thermal insulation along the ground using bulk materials. For concrete screed, expanded polystyrene is suitable, if the height of the ceilings allows - you can fill in expanded clay (for insulation with expanded polystyrene, 50 mm of layer thickness is enough, while when using expanded clay - at least 200 mm). Any material is suitable as insulation between the lags. The technology is similar to the thermal insulation of the attic.
• For foundation and plinth polyurethane foam and polystyrene foam are applicable. An important nuance - both materials are destroyed by sunlight, which must be taken into account when insulating the basement.

Thermal insulation works not only in winter but also in summer. If it is carried out correctly, then in cold weather it will be much warmer in the house, and cooler in heat. Manufacturers offer a huge assortment today. Here, not only traditional products, but also new modern materials. Construction insulation materials are in rolls, in mats, in granules, in the form of powder, cylinders, similar to blocks and bricks, or slabs.

Types of thermal insulation

The most important characteristic of a thermal insulation material is thermal conductivity. The lower it is, the better. In fact, this indicator determines how much heat a material can pass through itself.

The main classification of heaters divides them into two groups:

1. Reflective type. Reduction of heat losses during installation of this type occurs due to the reduction of infrared radiation.
2. Preventive type. Their main quality is a low coefficient of thermal conductivity.

Prevention type insulation is the broadest category. Let's consider the most popular samples and analyze their characteristics.

It is made from polyethylene granules, where a foaming agent is added when heated. The result is a porous material with good soundproof and vapor barrier properties.

The characteristics are:

• thermal conductivity of the material - 0.043-0.05 W / m K;
• 25-50 kg / m³;
• withstands temperatures in the range from -40 ° C to +100 ° C;
• the degree of water absorption is low;
• well withstands biological and chemical stress.

Some manufacturers produce foamed polyethylene with a foil-coated outer layer (a new modern analogue), this option already belongs to the second category. And one more product made of polyethylene foam - heat-insulating cylinders for pipe insulation.

Many ordinary people confuse polystyrene foam with polystyrene foam. These are two different insulation materials, where the first completely replaced the second, which has been used in construction for many years. A distinctive characteristic of expanded polystyrene is its porosity. So 98% are pores filled with gas. And only 2% is the material itself. But at the same time, the insulation itself is very dense.

Here are its characteristics:

• thermal conductivity - 0.024-0.041 W / m K;
• vapor permeability (water absorption) - 0.017;
• bending strength 0.5-1.1 kg / m² (comparable to foam - 0.03-1.9 kg / m²);
• in construction, material with a density of 15-35 kg / m³ is most often used.

We add that this insulation is used for all types of building structures: floors, facades, roofs, foundations. They can be insulated from the inside or outside.

The Penoplex brand is especially popular today. Cylinders for pipe insulation are also produced from expanded polystyrene.

This material is a mixture of water, polyester, emulsifiers, diisocyanate. Catalysts are added to this mixture, a chemical reaction occurs and polyurethane foam is obtained. It is a foamy liquid substance that is sprayed onto building structures.

Specifications:

• density - 40-80 kg / m³ (above 50 kg / m³, the insulation becomes moisture resistant);
• thermal conductivity - 0.018-0.027 W / m K;
• water absorption up to 0.05.

In private construction, PPU is rarely used, but with large volumes of work, it is a material in demand.

This insulation belongs to the group of inorganic thermal insulation materials. It is made either from slag or from stone rocks. The second option is more common. Basalt, limestone, dolomite and others are the raw materials for production. The binder is either urea or phenol. By the way, phenolic mineral wool is used in construction. She has a high coefficient of moisture resistance.

Specifications:

• thermal conductivity - 0.031-0.05 W / m K;
• density - 75-150 kg / m³;
• withstands temperatures up to +600 ° C;
• moisture resistance is not very high.

We add that this is an excellent sound insulator. Insulation is produced in rolls and mats. Manufacturers also offer cylinders from this material. It is non-combustible material.

It is made from the same raw materials as the glass itself. Compared to mineral wool, this insulation has a higher strength due to elongated fibers. Does not burn, passive to chemicals.

Specifications:

• density - 130 kg / m³, not more;
• thermal conductivity of the insulation - 0.028-0.52 W / m K;
• withstands temperatures up to +450 ° C;
• high water absorption.

This material is made from waste paper and cardboard. Waste paper is also used, but in this case the quality drops dramatically. This insulation is most often used for warming crowns in wooden construction.

Specifications:

• thermal conductivity of ecowool - 0.031-0.042 W / m K;
• material density - 30-75 kg / m³;
• vapor permeability - 0.3;
• insulation belongs to the group of moderately flammable materials;
• sound absorption with a layer thickness of 50 mm 63 dB.

Felt

Construction felt is an animal-based insulation material. Most often it is used in wooden construction, where external walls, window and door openings are covered with this material. It is often used as a heat-insulating layer under the plaster of wooden ceilings, and also, mixed with clay, as insulation for chimneys.

To prevent the felt from becoming a breeding ground for moths and other insects, manufacturers treat it with a 3% solution of sodium fluoride.

Specifications:

• thermal conductivity of the material 0.06 W / m K;
• density - 150 kg / m³;
• tensile strength - 2-5 kg ​​/ cm².

This is a new heat-insulating material, the production of which is based on sawdust or shavings, finely chopped reeds or straw. Cement acts as a binder. Chemical additives (water glass, sulphate alumina and calcium chloride) are required, which increase the technical qualities of the material. The finished insulation in the form of blocks is treated with a mineralizer.

Specifications:

• wood concrete density - 500 -700 kg / m³;
• thermal conductivity of the insulator - 0.09-0.13 W / m K;
• compression pressure - 0.6-3.6 MPa;
• for bending - 0.5-1.2 MPa.

This fiberboard insulation board is very similar to particle board. But not only wood is used in its production. Instead, you can use straw, corn cobs with the addition of waste paper. As a binder, synthetic resins are added, plus antiseptic and anti-foam solutions, as well as water repellents. Manufacturing form - plate.

Specifications:

• density - 250 kg / m³;
• thermal conductivity - 0.07 W / m K;
• bending strength no more than 12 MPa.

Warming is usually done by installing slabs on the crate. Most often used for interior work.

This insulation is called differently. One of the names of Mipora. Why? Because in the process of making insulation there is an intermediate stage, this is when an aqueous solution of urea-formaldehyde resin is strongly whipped with the addition of sulfonic acid. This foamed solution is mipora. Then glycerin is added to it, which gives the material strength and organic acid, which acts as a catalyst for the solidification of the mass.

Penoizol is sold in block or powder form. The powder must be diluted with water and poured into the cavity. Solidification occurs at room temperature.

Specifications:

• density - 20 kg / ³;
• thermal conductivity - 0.04 W / m K;
• starts to burn at a temperature of +500 ° C;
• high water absorption;
• low passivity to chemicals.

Comparative analysis

In such a variety of thermal insulation materials, it is difficult to choose the one that will be needed precisely for certain purposes. We must pay tribute to the manufacturers who began to divide products by model. For example, Penoplex brand expanded polystyrene insulation. We offer models for indoor use only, for facades, for roofs and so on. This is what is indicated on the packaging.

Let's compare some heaters with each other, after which it will become clear which one is best to choose for thermal insulation.

For example, let's take the famous brand Penofol - it is a polyethylene foam insulation. To begin with, the manufacturer supplies this thermal insulator with a double-sided foil layer. Penofol 4 mm thick can replace 80 mm rolled mineral wool, 30 mm expanded polystyrene plate. In addition, there is no need to install a waterproof and vapor barrier.

But you cannot use it under plaster. In this regard, expanded polystyrene plates benefit. You just need to apply a plaster mesh on them and you can level them.

Mineral wool is the cheapest insulation on the market. But its cheapness is imaginary, because for installation it will be necessary to build a wooden frame, which must be treated with an antiseptic. That is, all these costs will negate its cheapness.

Plus, mineral wool is afraid of moisture, and this is two more layers of protective materials. And all the same, together with expanded polystyrene plates, it is a leader in the category of modern heaters.

PPU

As for polyurethane foam, it is rarely used in private housing construction. This pleasure is too expensive. It is impossible to apply it with your own hands. Requires special equipment and work permit.

Arbolit and penoizol

These materials are most often used to insulate balconies and loggias. Both heaters today compete with aerated concrete blocks.

Unfortunately, so far they are losing due to the lack of promotion of the brand. Although, in terms of thermal insulation characteristics, foam blocks will not be inferior. But for thermal insulation of facades, arbolite is a good option.

Conclusion

These are the most popular thermal insulation materials in private housing construction. Of course, the insulation market has not exhausted its assortment on this. There are completely new materials, for example, from expanded polyvinyl chloride.

There are long-used ones, for example, the same chipboard or fiberboard. Or a combined option - a honeycomb insulation, the shell of which is a laminated plastic in the form of hexagonal honeycombs (hence the name), and paper, fabrics, fiberglass, cellulose, and so on are used as fillers.

There is a wide variety on the market for building materials intended for thermal insulation. It can be difficult to choose a suitable insulation among them. To buy the best product, you need to consider its main characteristics and application features.

What you need to know about insulation?

The main task of thermal insulation is to reduce heat loss in winter and reduce heating of the structure in summer. Also, thanks to the insulation, the supporting structures will be protected from negative external factors. This will help to avoid deformation of the building elements, which will have a beneficial effect on the service life.

It is important to remember that all types of insulation must have certain characteristics.

• Thermal conductivity. If this coefficient is small, then the room will be quite warm. Thanks to the appropriate materials, heat loss can be almost completely eliminated. It must be remembered that different types of insulation have a different coefficient. If it is minimal, a small layer of insulation will be required.
• Moisture resistance. Due to its thermal insulation characteristics, the material will not absorb moisture.
• Non-flammability. This property ensures that the product does not burn.
• Water vapor permeability. The use of a layer of thermal insulation helps remove water vapor.
• Dimensional retention as well as strength. Due to the absence of shrinkage, the operational properties of the selected insulation will remain for quite a long time. Moreover, there will be no cold bridges at the joints.
• Environmental friendliness. All heat-insulating materials must be environmentally friendly, so that no harmful substances will be emitted during the execution of work and the operation of the structure.

Modern thermal insulation materials conditionally are divided into several groups:

• cotton wool - mineral and glass wool, as well as mineral wool blocks and slabs;
• sheet - extruded polystyrene foam and foam;
• foam - all materials that are usually sprayed onto the surface using appropriate equipment;
• others - we are talking about such rare exotic insulation materials as cellulose, flax, etc.

Mineral wool insulation

It is customary to refer mineral and glass wool to such soft insulation. Such materials are very popular due to their affordable price and good quality. Products are produced in slabs or rolls... In this case, the products can be cut using an ordinary knife.

The main disadvantage is considered to be insufficient moisture resistance, due to which the heat-shielding characteristics deteriorate. Accordingly, such heaters are used for thermal insulation of structures where a waterproofing layer is provided.

Most often, glass wool is used to insulate pitched roofs. A material with a density of 35 kg / m³ is suitable for this. Modern manufacturers do not always indicate this parameter on the packaging. Usually they write that the material is intended for pitched roofs. When using such products for roof insulation, it is important to remember that if a leak occurs, moisture will even get onto wooden rafters. For this reason, it is necessary take care of reliable waterproofing... Mineral wool is not suitable for a flat roof, because waterproofing on such a surface can be difficult.

Other areas of application:

• with the help of glass wool, you can insulate walls for cladding or plastering;
• for ceilings, thermal insulation with a minimum density is suitable.

Foam glass

Such insulation is produced based on broken glass and quartz sand, as well as a foaming agent. Thanks to the use of an appropriate installation, a durable porous material with increased thermal protection rates is obtained. The product is not afraid of fire and moisture. It can be cut with a simple hacksaw. Important characteristics include frost resistance and the ability to withstand high pressure. The material is produced in blocks and granules.

Most often, such products are used as a backfill insulation during the well masonry of the walls. But if the frame technology is observed, foam glass will not work because of its heavy weight.

With the help of this material, the facades of brick houses are insulated. The material is fixed on tile glue, and the process itself resembles brick laying. After that, the coating is plastered or tiled.

Other areas of application:

• since the material is moisture resistant and tolerates increased loads, it can be used to insulate flat roofs, but it is not suitable for pitched roofs;
• with the help of foam glass, warming of interfloor ceilings, as well as floors of the first floor, is carried out;
• foam glass is a good option for thermal insulation of the blind area, foundation and basements, since the material is of high density.

Foamed perlite

This building material has recently appeared on the market. For its formation, solidified volcanic lava is used. First, perlite is crushed and then impregnated with special protective compounds. Products available as slabs... For this purpose, the finished granules are mixed with cellulose and compressed. The properties of the finished material are similar to those of foam glass. In general, foamed perlite is easy to process and is resistant to mold, moisture and high pressure.

Application area:

• the material is intended for insulating flat roofs, and in the case of thermal insulation of pitched structures, a significant load will be exerted on the rafters;
• when decorating walls, foamed perlite acts as a backfill insulation;
• perlite in the form of granules is suitable for floors, as well as foundations and blind areas.

Expanded polystyrene

There is a lot of controversy around this type of thermal insulation. Some believe that the material is harmful because it emits toxic substances, while others recognize modern types of expanded polystyrene as more environmentally friendly.

Naturally, technology is constantly evolving, and manufacturers want to improve product quality. It is for this reason that modern types of material are often used for external insulation of housing.

Application area:

• most often, walls are trimmed with foam;
• insulating material is suitable for flooring on concrete or soil, while it is necessary to choose the right density;
• a good option for using expanded polystyrene is the thermal insulation of the foundation, however, you should first take care of the availability of reliable waterproofing.

On the building materials market, you can find many heat-insulating materials that lose their relevance or appeared not so long ago.

Today, a large selection of heaters is on sale. They all have advantages and disadvantages. To determine the right option, it is necessary to take into account the peculiarities of the application. So, for roofs, lightweight insulation will be optimal, including ecowool or extruded polystyrene foam. The latter option is also suitable for thermal insulation of the foundation, but almost any materials can be used for wall decoration.