By: Scott Ruffett, CTR, LEED Green Assoc., ICYNENE
Over the last several years, provincial energy codes have changed to reflect the demand for more energy efficient buildings. The use of modern, cost effective insulation materials such spray applied foam insulation (SPF) can assist the building designer meet these new code requirements. Providing energy efficient buildings creates an opportunity to reduce energy consumption, lower our utility costs, improve occupant comfort and indoor air quality, and reduce pollution and greenhouse gases.
Choosing the right SPF product can be a challenge. Designers should carefully consider the project requirements to ensure a smooth and successful completion. Whether designing to meet minimum code requirements for thermal performance (R-Value) in a wall, roof or floor, or in a more complex commercial airbarrier system application, there is an SPF product that meet your project’s needs.
The two main SPF options for building designers are classified as light-density and medium-density. Both product types are excellent insulators providing superior air-sealing qualities and can be used in commercial, residential, new construction or renovation projects.
R-values for light-density products range between R-3.5 to R-4.1 per inch. These products can be considered air-barriers and require a vapour barrier in most applications. Light-density foams expand up to 100 times the liquid volume and are known for filling voids and cracks within the cavity making them an ideal choice for building reclamation and renovation projects or in details where there is a large and complex amount of framing that would difficult to insulate with traditional materials.
Medium-density foams have higher thermal performance, are air barriers as well as vapour barriers (VB in applications greater than 50mm). R-values of medium-density foams are higher than light density foams, ranging from 5.11 per inch to over 6 per inch. Medium-density foams are robust and can be used as a component of the building envelope. Furthermore, medium-density spray foams provide a water resistant barrier in cavity wall details. Other common applications are stud wall cavities, interior side of roof applications, below grade interior or exterior applications or under pour in place concrete floor slabs.
Download the entire issue for this article and more.
For more issues, visit our website or visit our archive for past issues.
No comments:
Post a Comment