What is it used for
Residential Construction
Used in walls, roofs, and floors to enhance thermal performance and reduce energy costs.
Commercial Buildings
Provides thermal insulation for large structures, contributing to energy efficiency and compliance with building regulations.
Industrial Applications
Used in warehouses and factories to maintain temperature control and reduce heating and cooling expenses.
Dimensions
Length: Typically 2400 mm
Width: Typically 1200 mm
Thickness: Varies from 25 mm to 150 mm
Weight: Varies based on material and thickness; approximately 3 kg to 15 kg per board
What it’s Made From
Polystyrene (EPS)
Provides excellent thermal insulation and moisture resistance.
Polyurethane (PUR)
Offers high insulation performance with a lower thickness requirement.
Polyisocyanurate (PIR)
Known for its high thermal efficiency and fire resistance.
Variations
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) Board
Description: Lightweight, moisture-resistant insulation with good thermal performance.
Applications: Ideal for wall and floor insulation in residential and commercial buildings.
Polyisocyanurate (PIR) Board
Description: High-performance insulation with excellent thermal efficiency and fire resistance.
Applications: Suitable for roofs, walls, and floors in both residential and commercial buildings.
Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) Board
Description: Dense, rigid insulation offering superior moisture resistance and compressive strength.
Applications: Perfect for below-ground applications, basements, and external wall insulation.
Installation
Tools Required
Utility knife | Straightedge | Tape measure | Trowel
Materials Required
Insulation boards | Adhesive or mechanical fixings | Joint tape | Vapor barrier (if needed)
Step-by-Step Guide:
Preparation: Measure the area and cut the insulation boards to fit using a utility knife and straightedge.
Apply Adhesive: Use adhesive or mechanical fixings to attach the boards to the surface.
Position Boards: Place the boards tightly together, ensuring no gaps.
Seal Joints: Apply joint tape to seal the gaps between boards.
Install Vapor Barrier: If required, install a vapor barrier over the insulation boards.
Finishing: Ensure the boards are securely fixed and check for any gaps or loose areas.
Technical Specification
Thermal Conductivity: 0.022 - 0.038 W/m·K
Fire Resistance: Varies by type; PIR and PUR generally offer better fire resistance.
Compressive Strength: 100 - 200 kPa
Water Absorption: Typically low, ensuring long-term performance in damp conditions.
Certification
BS EN 13165: Thermal insulation products for buildings – Factory-made rigid polyurethane foam (PUR) products.
BBA Certification: Assures quality and performance for various insulation products.
Purchasing Quantities
Single Boards
Ideal for small projects, repairs, or when only a few boards are needed.
Pallets
Typically sold in bulk, with each pallet containing around 10 to 20 boards. This option is suitable for medium to large construction projects.
Bundles
Smaller quantities than pallets, often sold in bundles of 2, 5, or 10 boards, suitable for minor projects or additions.
Environmental Impact
Sustainability Considerations
Insulation boards reduce energy consumption, lowering the carbon footprint of buildings.
Eco-friendly Alternatives
Boards made from recycled materials or natural fibers such as wood wool or hemp.
Waste Reduction
Long-lasting and durable, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Energy Efficiency
Significant energy savings over the lifespan of a building, offsetting the initial environmental impact of production.