Dimensions of mineral wool insulation in slabs and rolls

Mineral wool for wall insulation and its sizes: 11 options

When choosing insulation, carefully study the characteristics of mineral wool so that it meets all the requirements. You can insulate the house yourself. This can be done easily and simply if you decide on the type of thermal insulation material and become familiar with the nuances for its installation. When choosing insulation, special attention should be paid to the properties of the material. Mineral wool dimensions are an important issue that needs to be resolved before laying the material. Mineral wool of different lengths, thicknesses and widths is suitable for a specific type of work.

Why is thermal insulation needed?

Many people do not fully understand how the thickness of insulation affects the durability and technical characteristics of a structure. In simple terms, thermal insulation allows you to save on utility bills, because heat loss is reduced by almost a third, and in some cases by half.

Another important side effect of thermal insulation is sound insulation.

This is especially important for apartment buildings in urban areas, where sounds from the street can cause unnecessary discomfort. Panel houses also have extremely low sound insulation

If we are talking about personal construction with your own hands, for example, your own mansion or a country home, then thermal insulation materials make it possible to reduce construction costs by replacing materials for building walls.

So, using thick polystyrene or mineral wool slabs (within 10 cm wide), it is possible to replace brick walls with them. The load on these walls must be small, so this method is suitable for one-story buildings, building verandas or houses for guests.

Standard insulation sizes

The leader in the market of thermal insulation materials is. It produces plates, mats, rolls and cylinders. Varieties of mineral wool are used to insulate a specific type of structure. To insulate the frame structure, mineral wool is usually used, in which the thickness is 46-213 mm, the width ranges from 566 to 612 mm, and the length is 1175 mm.

For thermal insulation of walls, roofs, facades and other parts of buildings, as well as for insulation of equipment, mineral wool with a thickness of 50 to 150 mm is used

For high-quality sound insulation of multilayer walls, mineral wool of the following sizes is used: thickness - from 51-101 to 205 mm, width - from 613 mm, length - from 1175 mm.

Flat roofs are usually insulated with wool, which has the following dimensions: thickness - from 55 to 175 mm. Width – from 1195 mm, length – from 1280 mm. All sizes of mineral wool can be found in special catalogs. The most common method of insulation outside and inside is laying mineral wool mats on frame structures.

Wool sizes:

• ISOVER M34 – 40 mm by 200 mm, 610 mm by 1220 mm. 3000 mm by 9000 mm;
• Frame-M37 – 42 mm by 203 mm, 610 mm by 1220 mm, 3000 mm by 22000 mm;
• ISOVER M40 – 50 mm by 200 mm, 610 mm by 1220 mm. 3000 mm by 9000 mm;
• Frame-M40 – 50 mm by 200 mm, 50 mm by 1200 mm, 7000 mm by 14000 mm.

To insulate the pipelines, it is necessary to use cylinders of mineral wool. Typically, for thermal insulation of roofs, facades, walls and other parts of a building, Knauf mineral wool is used, which is presented in the following variation: thickness - 55-155 mm, while its length and width can vary. The latter characteristics should be selected based on ease of use.

Dimensions of insulation of different brands

When choosing mineral wool as insulation, you should take into account that the sizes of the slabs will differ for each manufacturer. The most popular among consumers are materials from well-known brands.

Knauf

This company uses basalt and fiberglass as the basis for mineral wool. Insulation is usually presented in slabs or rolls. Thermal insulation materials are suitable for partitions, ceilings and as sound insulation. The parameters are determined by the series.

• Acoustic is a structure consisting of 2 layers. Each layer has dimensions of 7500X610X50 mm.
• "TeploDom" is a tiled mineral wool produced using 3D elasticity technology. The length of the sheets varies from 1230 to 6148, width - from 610 to 1220, and thickness - from 5 to 10 mm.
• “Cottage” is available in slabs and rolls and has dimensions of 1230 by 610 and 6148 by 1220 mm, respectively. The thickness of the material is 50 mm.
• “Cottage+” is presented only with insulation in slabs, the thickness of which is 100, length 1230, and width 610 mm.
• The Insulation series includes the tile line "Thermoplate" with standard parameters 1250x600 mm and the roll line "Thermoroll" - 1200x10,000 mm.

Isover

Using various technologies, the brand produces insulation in different variations.

• The P-32 frame has parameters of 1170 by 670 mm, and the thickness of the slabs can vary from 40 to 150 mm. The most popular sheets are 75 and 80 mm thick.
• The P-34 frame has a standard length of 1170 and a width of 565 mm. As for thickness, it can range from 40 to 200 mm.
• Rigid mineral wool sheets are presented in dimensions of 1550 by 1180 mm and with a thickness of 30 mm.

"TechnoNIKOL"

The company produces professional insulation materials. Mineral wool is produced in the form of soft, semi-soft and hard slabs. All sheets have a standard size of 1200x600 mm. Only the thickness can change in the range from 40 to 250 mm. The brand has several series that differ in purpose:

• "Rocklight" is suitable for floors, various ceilings and attics;
• "Technovent" was created for insulating facades;
• "Bazalit" is intended for attics and all types of roofs.

Rockwool

The manufacturer presents non-flammable cotton wool with high moisture resistance in various series.

• “Sauna” is a modification coated with aluminum. The thickness of the slab ranges from 50 to 100 mm, the length is 1000 and the width is 500 mm.
• “Light Scandic” are hydrophobized sheets, available in 2 versions: 1200X600X100/150 and 800X600X50/100 mm.
• “Light” is made of 2 layers, which makes it optimal for internal insulation, for floors and roofs. Standard parameters: 1000Х600Х50 and 1000Х600Х100 mm.
• Due to its high strength, “Flor” can be used for floors on the ground, above basements, and on reinforced concrete foundations. All slabs in this series are made in the same size 1000x600x25 mm.

Paroc

The Finnish company produces a number of mineral wool series for home insulation.

• UNS 37 is suitable for walls and floors, dimensions are 1220x610x50 mm. In this case, the thickness can vary from 35 to 175 mm.
• InWall can be used for all types of buildings. The sheets have the following parameters: length 1200 mm, width 600, thickness 30–250 mm.
• ROB is designed for flat roofs and is available in 3 sizes: 1200–1800X600, 1200–1800X900 and 1800X1200 mm. The thickness ranges from 20–30 mm.
• Linio is suitable for facades that are plastered. The standard sheet length is 1200 mm, width – 600, and thickness – 30–250 mm.
• GRS is designed to cover the floors of the first floor, basement, and foundation. Sheet dimensions 1200 by 600 mm. The thickness value is presented in the range of 50–200 mm.
• “Extra” is perfect for frame buildings and has the following dimensions: 1170X610X42/150, 1200X600X50/100 and 1320X565X50/150 mm.

Mineral wool in rolls: types and sizes

The modern market offers a wide variety of all kinds of innovative thermal insulation materials. This includes liquid-ceramic heat insulator, polyurethane foam, and silica mats. However, mineral wool is still the most popular of them.

Today, thermal insulation with mineral wool is one of the most popular construction services.

Mineral wool is characterized by a low thermal conductivity coefficient, a wide temperature range, high fire safety and absolute environmental friendliness.

Rock wool rolls are usually used to insulate horizontal surfaces. This installation requires careful handling and avoidance of too much stress on the surface. Rolls are used to insulate floors between floors, floors, attics, and roofs with a slight slope. They are also used to insulate pipes, fireplace covers and home stoves.

Roll dimensions (width, thickness, length in mm):

• Ursa M-11 – 1150 by 53 by 9000;
• Isover Classic – 1220 by 50 by 8200;
• Isover Sauna – 1200 to 50 to 8200;
• Heat Knauf Dacha - 1220 by 50 by 7380.

Bulk mineral wool is inconvenient to roll, so its thickness usually does not exceed 50 mm. Mineral wool in rolls can be used to insulate large areas where the surface is subject to significant load. For laying rolls, logs, rafters and other building elements are usually used.

TechnoNIKOL basalt insulation

TechnoNIKOL Corporation is a large Russian holding. On the market since 1992. Production sites and branches are located in 38 countries. TechnoNIKOL's rich assortment of basalt wool will allow you to choose the right type of insulation.

Review of titles:

1.Technolight.Used for heat and sound insulation of surfaces with low external loads. Insulate pitched roofs, floors, attic walls, and ceilings in attics. Thickness – 40-200mm, density – from 30 to 40kg/m3.

2.Technovent.The main purpose is insulation in residential and industrial premises. Component of a ventilated facade. Thickness – 40-200mm, density – from 80 to 100kg/m3.

3.Rocklight.I insulate horizontal, vertical, inclined structures. Among them: floors, ceilings, multi-layer frame walls, attic space. Thickness – from 50 to 100mm, density – 30kg/m3.

4. Technofas. Plates are used in industrial and civil construction.

Suitable for thermal insulation of facades. Decorative plaster can be applied on top of them. Thickness – from 40 to 240mm, density – 145kg/m3.

5.Technoflor. Three types. SOIL - for insulating heated floors and floating floors. PROF is needed where there is a large load on the floor - in warehouses, gyms.

STANDARD – for floating floors that require a thermal insulation layer. Thickness – from 20 to 150mm depending on the type. Density – from 90 to 110 kg/m3.

6. TechnoNIKOL stitching mat. Fire protection, thermal insulation of residential and industrial buildings. A galvanized mesh is attached to the mat to facilitate installation and add rigidity to the finished structure.

They insulate ventilation ducts, cylindrical, flat, cone-shaped surfaces, heating up to +750C. Thickness – from 40 to 200mm. Density – from 80 to 100 kg/m3.

Foil-coated basalt wool is also included in the list of TechnoNIKOL products.

Available in rolls. The cost of TechnoNIKOL basalt insulation varies. The popular type Rocklight costs 1,300 rubles/m3. The most expensive material is with a density of 180 kg/m3 - Tekhnoruf B60 - 6000 rubles/m3.

Suitable sizes of mineral wool in slabs

The many advantages of mineral wool contribute to its widespread use in the construction process. To accurately calculate the required amount of material, you need to be informed about the size of the slabs. If when choosing thermal insulation materials you need to know the number of squares, then when choosing wool you need to pay attention to the dimensions of the slabs.

Mineral wool slabs are used for external and internal construction work.

Standard slabs have the following dimensions: 1000 by 500 mm. In each specific case, you can select the appropriate thickness of the slabs. The number of slabs is determined by the size of the structure being finished.

Slab sizes:

• Izover Frame P-32 – 1170x610, while the thickness can vary from 40 to 150 mm.
• Izover Frame P-34 – 1170x565, while the thickness can vary from 40 to 200 mm.
• The rigid Izover plate is 1550x1180, with a minimum thickness of 30 mm.

You can calculate the required number of slabs in a hardware store, having previously measured the area of ​​the room. You can calculate the number of mineral wool sheets in advance. Find out in advance how many sheets are in one package or pack. If the sheets do not fit, they can be carefully cut. Wadding trimmings can be used to insulate cracks and joints. The density of the sheets is selected depending on the required quality of thermal insulation.

Video description

The calculation of the thickness of mineral wool slabs is described in the video:
The climatic zone of the location of the house directly affects the thickness of the insulation. If the temperature is very low in winter and the heating season lasts a long time, then more insulating material will be required. After all, it will be necessary to lay a thick layer of it. However, less insulation will be required if, for example, the house has wooden walls or they are built from foam blocks. These materials have lower thermal conductivity than brick or reinforced concrete structures.

Important! Often, to calculate the thickness of the insulating material in frame walls, a simpler formula is used - αут=(R-0.16)*λB.

The index “B” for the thermal conductivity coefficient of insulation means that it will be used in damp conditions. After the calculation has been completed, professionals usually increase the thickness of the thermal insulation material by 10%. This allows you to obtain the optimal size of insulation.

The thickness of the thermal insulation material for the roofing pie is calculated using the same formula as for walls. The only difference will be the value of the thermal resistance used. Because it is different for walls and roof.

Reduced value of heat transfer resistance for a wall made of different materials Source sense-life.com

On a note! The thickness of the insulating material is calculated and selected depending on the structure in which it will be installed. Typically, thicker insulation is used in the roof than on the walls. Because the latest designs have less thermal conductivity. Although it also directly depends on the materials from which they are made.

Important! The thickness of the thermal insulation material for each type of building envelope is selected separately.

Features of mineral wool for insulation

Modern construction cannot be imagined without the use of mineral wool as a thermal insulation material. It has a wide range of uses, which makes it especially popular among builders. The most common way to use mineral wool is to insulate building structures.

Manufacturers produce products of different types and purposes: plates, mats, rolls, cylinders

Typically, mineral wool is used to insulate roofs, floors, walls and ceilings: the dimensions of the materials depend on the area of ​​the room and the type of insulation.

Often mineral wool is used to lay the middle layer. At the same time, the load on the insulation of various types of surfaces in any buildings, houses and structures is avoided. Vertical laying of mineral wool is used to insulate facades and walls. The inclined and horizontal installation method is chosen for insulating the ceiling, roof and roof.

What is mineral wool used for:

• For equipping facade systems that are ventilated, as well as for installation in curtain wall facades.
• Mineral wool is used to insulate building sandwiches of panels and blocks, which are used to build multilayer walls with different types of cladding. They can be metal, concrete, fiberboard and OSB.
• To insulate various industrial structures, equipment and pipelines.

Related article: Dimensions of aerated concrete blocks for external walls
Modern manufacturers offer consumers different types of general building insulation. Cotton wool can be presented as a lightweight heat and sound insulating material that does not have a coating. Another option: cotton wool with one-sided caching using aluminum foil. The wool can be equipped with special sound-absorbing material.

Minvata. Scope of application of mineral thermal insulation

The range of use of insulation made from various types of mineral wool is very wide. This material is used both in construction and in industry, in the manufacture of products intended for insulating surfaces with heating temperatures up to 700° C, in the production of sandwich panels and other products of various functionality.

Insulation of walls with mineral wool using a frame

In the construction industry, mineral wool is used to insulate structural elements of buildings and structures for any purpose:

• walls;
• floors:
• floors;
• basements;
• facades, both ventilated and plastered;
• plinths;
• pitched and flat roofs;
• balconies and loggias;
• frame houses;
• temporary structures - sheds, cabins, etc.

In engineering communications systems, mineral wool with various technical characteristics and properties is used for insulation of main and autonomous water supply pipelines laid underground and on the surface, local and main sewerage systems.

Insulation of main pipelines with mineral wool

Mineral wool insulation has also found its application in the construction of three-layer walls made of brick or stone, as a middle layer, as well as in the production of reinforced concrete structures, significantly increasing their thermal insulation properties.

Use of mineral wool in sandwich panels

Mineral wool is also used in various industries - oil and gas, metallurgical and energy.

Mineral wool. Types, properties. (video)

The use of basalt insulation is a fairly popular method of insulating premises. The service life of mineral wool is very long, so it is used to insulate industrial buildings and residential buildings. Construction foil and stone wool is intended for various types of insulation. The volume of materials used depends on the area of ​​the insulated room. Cotton wool is used to insulate walls, ceilings, floors and other surfaces. For each of them it is better to use cotton wool of a certain quality and composition.

Dimensions, weight, thermal conductivity, density

The technical characteristics of stone wool are superior to other insulation materials in many respects.

Basics:

1.Dimensions. There is no standard size for all types of stone wool.

The dimensions depend on where this type of insulation will be used. The length of the slabs ranges from 1000 to 1200 mm, width - 500-600 mm, thickness - 20-240 mm. 2. Density depends on the type of material. Indicators range from 30-40 kg/m3 to 190kg/m3.3. Water absorption - no more than 2% of the volume.

Hydrophobic material.4.Vapour permeability – 0.3 mg/(m.h.Pa).5.High fire resistance. Melting point: +1114C.6.Compressive strength at 10% deformation – 5-80KPa.

7. Thermal conductivity is low - 0.032¬ 0.048 W/(mK).

Peculiarities

The main property of any thermal insulation material is its thermal conductivity. In order to achieve optimal temperature in the house, it is necessary to either reflect heat from the surface or prevent transmission along the wall of the building. According to this criterion, all insulation materials are divided into two categories:

• preventive type - in these products the thermal conductivity is very low;
• reflective type - here the level of infrared radiation is reduced several times.

Comparative characteristics of the service life of insulation materials table

There are many types of insulation, but today we will take a closer look at the most budget-friendly and reliable options. These include:

1. Mineral wool.
2. Basal wool.
3. Styrofoam.

The first type is called stone. It has a fairly high level of quality, as it is made from basalt stone. Its cost is much higher, but both the quality and the period of suitability meet expectations. According to statistics, mineral wool is used most often in construction. Duration of operation is about 50 years. But this figure is still disputed, and it has several nuances. At the moment there are two types of mineral wool.

The second is slag. This means that water practically cannot penetrate into it, and the material itself is quite dense. Accordingly, it is made from slag from the metallurgical industry. It is significantly inferior to the previous one in price, quality, and service life. In addition, it is not resistant to sudden temperature changes and may become deformed after a certain time. But despite this, it is often used as the best option if the construction is temporary or less significant.

It is worth noting that this substance has two important advantages:

Non-flammability. You don’t have to worry that the material is not susceptible to fire from metal tiles, which can heat up to high levels in extreme heat. And also other effects of high temperatures will not pose a threat to the insulation, and therefore to you.

Vapor permeability

Izover has the ability to “breathe,” which is also important. The material easily passes all vapors through itself, but at the same time they do not accumulate inside

This property makes mineral wool environmentally friendly, and in combination with thermal insulation it is a huge plus. In addition, no additional treatment is required for condensate.

Basal cotton wool is not inferior in the duration of the action of the previous substance. Manufacturers provide a warranty of over 50 years. A very long time ago, construction began to use insulation made from fibrous material. But the peak of its exploitation has occurred in the last couple of decades. This happened due to the intensive construction of country houses, as well as increased heating prices. This is where the material is very popular.

Over time, the quality of basal wool has improved significantly. Now it is an environmentally friendly and safe product. The main advantages include several aspects:

1. Fire safety. The material can easily withstand high temperatures without losing its properties.
2. Low hydrophobicity. The substance repels moisture, which significantly increases the service life of the insulation.
3. Compressibility. Basal wool is very resistant and does not undergo deformation.
4. Chemical resistance. Rotting, fungus, rodents, mold and harmful microorganisms will no longer become a threat to your home.

Despite the coincidence, the materials are of excellent quality, do not deform or crumble. The substances are used everywhere and have many positive reviews. With such insulation, your walls can last for more than 100 years.

Dimensions of mineral wool: release form and dimensions

The production volume of the Russian mineral wool market is constantly increasing. The maximum figures dating back to 2013 are admirable - 52.5% increase compared to 2009.

The share of mineral wool used in construction has increased from 46% in 2010 to 60% today. Starting from mid-2017 and beyond, an increase in the production of mineral wool products is predicted.

This success is due to many factors. This includes an increase in multi-apartment construction, the growing popularity of suburban housing, and the growth of industry in general. However, an important factor is the thoughtful study of the needs of the construction market by product manufacturers.

Knowledge of the required technical and operational characteristics, sizes and dimensions of mineral wool, understanding of what a builder needs to build quality housing allows the manufacturer to produce products that will be in demand.

Rockwool basalt insulation

The ROOCKWOOL group of companies unites enterprises from different countries. Representative offices and production facilities have been opened in Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine. On the market for more than half a century. Rockwool's products are used in premises for various purposes.

Review:

1. Fire insulation. Rockwool basalt wool is used in shipbuilding for thermal insulation of devices that have a fire and explosion hazard.

2.Technical insulation. Indispensable for air conditioning systems, ventilation ducts, chimneys, heating systems, pipelines, boilers and tanks. Insulates parts and devices with high and low temperatures.

3. Passive fire protection systems. Rockwool stone wool is needed for fire resistance of ceilings and steel structures, for the protection of chimneys and ventilation shafts.

4. Rockwool facade panels. Panels containing high-density stone wool - up to 200 kg/m3, withstand moisture and open fire well. Used in the construction of new facilities and during the reconstruction of existing buildings.

5. Ceiling systems. Based on stone wool, the Rockwool company produces ROCKFON suspended ceilings. The products improve the acoustic properties of the room and the microclimate in it. Used in hospitals, schools, offices, industrial and commercial facilities.

6. Agricultural soils GRODAN. Purpose – thermal insulation of the soil layer when growing plants in greenhouses.

7. ALFAROCK mineral mats. Single-sided foil insulation.

Available in 5m rolls. Density 60kg/m3. Suitable for thermal insulation of various surfaces with medium load.

8. LAPINUS fibers. Basalt wool fibers are used to insulate individual components and parts in the automotive industry. The product range from the Rockwool company includes more than 30 products in rolls, sheets and mats. For each building or room you can choose the appropriate type of Rockwool stone wool.

How does the purpose of mineral wool affect its size?

Insulation is necessary for any building in order to:

• reduce heat loss in winter;
• protect from overheating in summer;
• preserve elements of the building’s supporting structure from the effects of negative environmental factors;
• increase the service life of the structure.

These tasks are entirely within the capabilities of inorganic insulation materials. Of the large list of materials of this kind, mineral wool is in particular demand. Mineral wool has been successfully used in construction for a long time.

Related article: Wall finishing with putty with a pattern

By giving preference to this type of insulation, the consumer receives the following advantages:

• thermal conductivity index 0.035 W/μ, one of the best;
• high-quality dielectric properties;
• high levels of vapor permeability;
• best fire resistance parameters;
• low hygroscopicity;
• high resistance to aggressive environments.

This material can be used to insulate walls, both inside and outside. It is used for roofs, attics and basements, and internal partitions. Its dimensions have the same standards as the distances between the guides where the mineral wool is laid. If violations of standards occur in construction, there is also a need to adjust the size of the insulation.

Styrofoam

Usually this word refers to foamed polystyrene and extruded polystyrene (penoplex). In terms of chemical composition and thermal insulation properties, these materials are practically the same, however, penoplex has much greater bending strength and resistance to crumbling than traditional polystyrene foam. For this reason, recently most consumers are abandoning foamed polystyrene (foam) in favor of extruded polystyrene (penoplex).

Styrofoam

The advantage of this type of thermal insulation is its low price, ease of installation and moisture resistance. The disadvantages include the flammability of this material, and when polystyrene burns, a large amount of toxic substances is released.

Polystyrene slabs are produced in thicknesses from 5 mm to 50 mm; a special chamfer is made on the edges of the slabs so that during installation, gaps and, consequently, “cold paths” do not appear at the joints.

Expanded polystyrene

If a layer thickness of more than 50 mm is required, then two or even three layers of polystyrene are laid, with each new layer being laid offset relative to the previous one so that the joints of the slabs of the upper row fall on the centers of the slabs of the lower one.

Screed diagram with foam plastic

When insulating a floor located directly above the ground, the foam layer must be at least 300 mm for a house with a wooden floor, and 200 mm for a house with self-leveling concrete floors. You should lay at least 4 layers of the thickest foam panels, offset from each other.

If there is a cold basement under the floor, then the foam layer can be reduced by 50mm.

To insulate floors between floors of a private house, 150 mm of foam is sufficient for wooden floors and 100 mm for concrete floors.

If you are insulating floors in an apartment building, then for all floors except the first it is enough to lay one layer of foam plastic 50 mm thick. On the ground floor the thickness can be increased to 80-100 mm.

Calculated thicknesses of Penoplex thermal insulation

Application

Insulation is produced in rolls or slabs. For example, rolls are best for roof insulation, slabs are good for walls.

There are also mats that are necessary for insulating the floor.

Stone wool is often produced in the form of granules, as well as in the form of cords and bundles. These forms of packaging are used in industrial construction.

To effectively insulate a house, the following thickness of mineral wool is used:

• outer wall – 100mm;
• ceiling, attic – 150 mm;
• roof and attic – 300 mm.

The width of mineral wool in rolls and slabs is the same - from 565 cm to 620 cm, length - from 1117 cm to 1380 cm. The data is given using the example of Isover mineral wool.

Another similar insulation, for example Ursa, is also universal in use. Ursa is produced in slabs and mats with a thickness from 30mm to 100mm, length from 1250 to 10000mm, width 610mm -1200mm.

As you can see, the differences in dimensions between different brands are insignificant. The price is also about the same.

And yet, specialists at different sites use different brands of mineral wool insulation.

No matter how similar different types of insulation are in their technical and operational characteristics, sizes and other indicators, advice from a professional on their use will be extremely useful!

Products for easy installation

Foil-coated mineral wool in slabs
Sometimes the size of stone wool in slabs is not enough to thermally insulate a vertical or inclined structure. To simplify installation of the system, mats with additional layers are used:

• Bitumen. Allows you to create an additional base for the roofing sheet.
• Laminated with polymer or fiberglass. They facilitate “dry” insulation or the installation of sandwich systems. Fiberglass prevents fibers from blowing out, and polystyrene blocks moisture from entering.
• With section differences. Used to slope a pitched roof. Water drains faster from such a slab.
• Lamellar. The sheet is distinguished by a perpendicular arrangement of fibers, due to which elasticity is achieved and tensile strength increases.
• Double basalt. They allow you to protect your home using “wet” technology from heat leaks. The top coating is rigid and prevents the product from deforming during installation. The lower elastic part ensures that the material adheres tightly to the wall.
• With foil. Additional fiberglass reinforcement of penoplex models eliminates the penetration of condensate. Using the material you can insulate a residential attic or loggia.

Manufacturers mark the sides for ease of use.

Let's calculate the required amount of insulation

It is useful to consult a professional on any issues. For example, which wool is better for a particular object - stone wool, one that uses basalt rocks, the so-called basalt wool, or another.

Will you need foil wool, what mineral wool materials will be needed at all, and is it possible to optimize costs.

For example, let’s calculate the required amount of insulation for the roof.

Stage one:

• calculate the roof area;
• we add the area of ​​the attic walls and partitions;
• We add 3% to the amount received.

Stage two. We choose the insulation whose roll area most closely matches the insulation area. We consider the material both sheet, and in rolls, and in mats.

Stage three. We divide the roof area by the area of ​​the insulation squares and multiply the unplanned number of layers. The amount received will determine how many sheets, rolls to buy, and how much slab material will be required in pieces.

In order not to waste money on cutting insulation, carefully calculate the dimensions of the room, carefully analyze everything that is written on the packaging of this or that insulation. However, even if the mini-plate or roll tape has been trimmed, there is nothing to worry about. The waste will be useful for insulating adjacent buildings.

Mineral wool is considered almost the best insulation on the country's construction market. The sizes of different brands of these products are almost the same.

The dimensions are dictated by building codes; this standard approach largely optimizes the construction process.

When choosing insulation, it is important to take into account technical characteristics, professional advice on the purpose of a particular material, length, width, thickness and other important indicators.

A significant characteristic is density. Typically it is 11-350 kg/m kV. The highest density wool is used for internal partitions and has dimensions similar to other types of insulation.

Watch the video that explains the nuances of calculating and laying insulation:

Advice from experts

Finding out the size of stone wool is often necessary in order to calculate how much material is needed for insulation. Don’t think that it’s too easy; they often buy too much or, worse, too little material. To avoid making mistakes in calculating quantities, you need to consider the following points:

1. Almost every package indicates how much area one “portion” of mineral wool can cover. This information will help determine exactly how many packages are needed.
2. Do not forget that stone and any other mineral wool has properties such as shrinkage - it is better to purchase it in excess. Therefore, about 15% should be added to the results obtained. This will help avoid the formation of cracks.
3. In order to minimize the consumption of insulation and waste from it, it is necessary to calculate the optimal distance at the stage of construction or installation of the sheathing, often 50-60 cm.
4. It is imperative to double-check the size of the roll or sheet of insulation, since even from the same manufacturer they may differ. As well as the area of ​​the roll.

In general, to calculate the required amount of stone wool you need:

• Determine the insulated area. To do this, multiply the length by the width. If the area is not of a standard shape, then it must be divided into its component parts.
• Determining the perimeter of the house if everything is insulated - walls, ceilings, floors. Multiply the perimeter by the height and by the number of floors, if there are several.
• If you also need to insulate the roof, then calculate its area.
• All that remains is to add up the resulting dimensions and do not forget to add about 15% for trimming the seal.

Mineral wool can be of different thicknesses from the same manufacturer

General characteristics

The product is sold in two forms: slabs and rolls. The dimensions of the sheets are established by GOSTs. In the rolled version, the length of the mat can reach 10 meters, the width - from 1 to 1.5 meters. Slab parameters: 1250*610 mm. Thickness varies from 2 to 15 cm. Density is another important indicator, which indicates the number of fibers per 1 m³. On the packaging it is indicated by the letter P. Values ​​from 35-150 are suitable for working with walls. The higher the value, the greater the load on the base.

Main categories

Insulation for walls is divided into 2 groups: for internal insulation and external insulation. These categories differ from each other only in their ability to pass steam or retain it. Mineral wool, packaged in slabs, mats, rolls, is easy to use, easy to cut and fills the most inaccessible corners, leaving virtually no waste after cutting.

TechnoNIKOL:

Technofas.

Available in the form of a slab measuring 600*1200*50/100 with a density of 145 kg per 1 m3. Technoven Standard. Plate. Dimensions 600*1200*50/100, density 80.

Knauf:

Insulation FKD. Plate (600*1200* 20-160, density 140 -150.Insulation FKL, plate. 200*1000*20-200, density 85.Insulation FKD-S, plate 600*1200*60-180, density 140-160; Insulation HTB, plate 1000*500*20-180, density 35-150.

Rockwool:

Fasrock, roll 1000*600*100, density 135; Wentirock max, roll 1000*600*50, density 50-90; Panelrock, plate 1000*600*50-100, density 65.

Attention!

The fine-fiber structure of mineral wool contains formaldehyde, and therefore is classified as a carcinogenic building material.

For safe installation, it is necessary to have special protection for the worker performing insulation or insulation. To prevent fibers from scattering throughout the room, the pressed slabs should be protected with membranes. And only after that begin finishing work.

Mineral wool differences

As we have already said, there are three types of mineral wool insulation. Each of them is made from different raw materials and has its own properties.

Glass wool

A material consisting of molten glass cullet, dolomite, sand, soda or limestone.

Advantages:

• Breathability.
• Fire resistance.
• Elasticity, vibration resistance.
• Withstands low temperatures.
• Lower cost than other mineral wool.

Minuses:

• Short shelf life - 5-10 years.
• Shrinkage 80%.
• Strongly absorbs moisture.
• If it comes into contact with the skin, it causes itching or even an allergic reaction.

As for the scope of application, it is usually mineral wool for insulating walls inside the house.

Slag

Produced from metallurgical waste. Inferior in characteristics to other types of insulation.

• Does not provide adequate sound insulation.
• Does not withstand strong heat. It does not burn, but it sinteres and loses its thermal insulation qualities.
• Does not tolerate temperature changes.
• Protective clothing and a respirator for installation are also required.
• It is impossible to insulate damp rooms with metal fasteners, since under the influence of moist air, slag will promote corrosion.
• High hygroscopicity.

Related article: Homemade horizontal bar on the wall

Plus, such a layer in the wall does not attract rodents and insects. Most often used on dry surfaces of temporary buildings or non-residential buildings.

Stone

The most expensive material. It is usually chosen for exterior work in private houses, including frame wooden houses. Rocks are used in production. Thanks to this, the final product has many advantages:

• High density and therefore strength.
• Fire resistance. Does not ignite at any temperature.
• Minimum shrinkage (5%).
• Long service life (up to 50 years).
• Provides excellent sound insulation.
• Almost does not break during operation, which happens with other types of products.
• Vapor permeability. The fibers repel moisture.

The downside is the high cost. Despite all the advantages, it is not always rational to insulate with these slabs.

Requirements for thermal insulation materials

There are a large number of requirements for thermal insulation materials, which are distinguished depending on the operational load for a new building, weather conditions, material capabilities, etc.

One of the main and important characteristics of thermal insulation is the technical ability to conduct and retain heat. This depends on various factors, such as: the structure and porosity of the material, its density, as well as the level of moisture absorption and humidity.

Based on thermal conductivity, there are three classes of thermal conductivity:

• A – low thermal conductivity and heat saving (0.06 W/sq. m);
• B – average thermal conductivity and heat saving (0.06 – 0.115 W/sq. m);
• B – high thermal conductivity and heat saving (0.115 – 0.175 W/sq. m).

To guarantee high-quality thermal insulation of the facade (end), be it a high-rise building or a private small mansion, the thermal insulation must be quite durable and strong in order to be able to withstand the weight of the final finish.

As a result, it is necessary to carefully select the material, based on what the wall will be covered with at the stage of external finishing. Tiles, for example, weigh quite a lot, so a solid base is needed, but wallpaper (as well as cork) will fit perfectly in almost all cases, but applying such a coating outdoors is highly not recommended.

In addition to the fact that thermal insulation must be as vapor-tight as possible, it should not absorb moisture. This material should not ignite or burn, and also support combustion (should die out after ignition), release harmful and toxic substances, and should not be subject to deformation due to temperature changes.

Advantages and disadvantages of mineral wool for wall insulation

Let's summarize. The advantages of almost all types of mineral wool include several qualities:

• Non-flammability.
• Easy processing. Plates and rolls are cut with a knife or saw.
• Good noise and heat insulation.
• Easy installation.
• Long service life (from 5 to 50 years, except for material made from slag).

• The need to work in protective clothing and a respirator.
• Fiberglass may require additional vapor barrier.

There is also an opinion that when heated, the insulation emits fumes that are harmful to health. Manufacturers claim this is a myth. In addition, after installation, the thermal insulation layer is covered with plasterboard, boards or other finishing.

Particles released into the air when cutting products can be harmful. To do this, it is recommended to close the airways, and if fibers get on the skin, wash them off only with cool or cold water. This is necessary so that the pores do not expand and cutting dust does not get into them.

Overall, this is a modern, easy-to-use, effective material for protecting your home from high and low temperatures.

Which is better to choose?

Finding suitable insulation for construction is not so easy

When choosing between mineral and basalt wool, you should pay attention not only to the performance characteristics of the insulating materials. Other factors are no less important

• Price. Basalt slabs are a more expensive material that requires significant investment. Mineral wool is cheaper, but when purchasing it there are associated costs associated with the purchase of a film to protect it from external factors. The total costs turn out to be quite comparable, and you still won’t be able to save much.
• Purpose. Internal thermal insulation is not so susceptible to climatic factors. Here you can use mineral wool. When covering external walls, the best solution is a basalt slab, which does not change its size and characteristics when in contact with moisture or temperature changes.
• Hygroscopicity. In terms of vapor permeability, basalt slabs are noticeably superior to their mineral counterparts. That is why they are recommended for use in rooms with high humidity levels.
• Environmental friendliness. Here, basalt slabs, which do not contain dangerous and harmful substances that evaporate when heated, are definitely in the lead. In their production, bentonite clay is used, which does not contain phenol derivatives. Mineral wool is not as environmentally friendly.
• Life time. For all types of glass wool, including mineral wool, the service life is limited to 8-10 years. During this period, the products shrink significantly, however, changes can make themselves felt much earlier. A basalt slab retains its properties for up to half a century.
• Compatible with other materials. Stone modules are universal, suitable for use on wall surfaces made of brick, concrete, wood, OSB, and blocks. They are used as part of roofing structures and ceilings. Mineral wool contains components that attract rodents, which can be a problem in wooden buildings.
• Hypoallergenic. Materials containing fiberglass can provoke the development of allergic reactions. They are not recommended for use in children's rooms or in homes where there are people with hypersensitivity to the components of the stoves. Rock wool and other basalt products do not have this drawback.

When choosing insulation that is easy to install and operate, you should always give preference to options that fully meet all the requirements for comfort and safety. Then the selected insulation will last a long time and protect the house from cold or excessive heating in hot weather. Basalt slabs are considered a more modern solution, which is why, despite their high cost, they seem to be a more preferable choice for use in residential and commercial construction.

How to choose mineral wool products

First you need to pay attention to several characteristics:

• Thickness of mineral wool for wall insulation. The thicker the insulating layer, the higher its fire safety, sound insulation and strength. For interior partitions and frame structures, mats of 5 cm are suitable. For facades - from 5 to 10 cm.
• Density (P). We wrote about it above. The rigidity of the structure and its ability to withstand loads depend on it. For facades, the indicator should be in the range of 100-125 kg/m³. If plaster is chosen as finishing, then 150 kg/m³. For interior partitions - 75-90 kg/m³.
• Thermal conductivity. The smaller it is, the better. In this regard, basalt and fiberglass products have proven themselves well.
• Vapor permeability. The coefficient suitable for private buildings is that of stone wool. Designated MU1. The larger it is, the better the product.
• Fire resistance. The fire resistance level of fiberglass is 600⁰ C, material made of rock alloys is 1000º C.

What else to pay attention to

If you are planning work on the outside of the building, choose basalt slabs. When it is necessary to insulate from the inside, fiberglass coating is also suitable. When purchasing, look at the storage conditions.

• If the product gets even a little wet, there is no point in purchasing it. Check that there are no tears in the packaging.
• Blocks and rolls should be kept under cover and not outdoors.

The most famous manufacturers of mineral insulation are Isover, URSA, Rockwool, Knauf. Their products are certified and quality tested.

Other important markings

In order to understand in what form the insulation will be presented, you should consider the additional markings on the packaging. Namely:

• P-75. The number means density; the less dense the mineral wool, the more convenient it is to roll it. This is exactly the case. Such types are used for walls that will not take on a load-bearing load.
• P-125. These are already slabs, they are used for the ceiling and floor. It has increased sound insulation properties.
• PPZh-175. In addition to the fact that the density of this stone wool is 175 kg/m³, it also has increased rigidity, as indicated by the “F” marking.
• PPZh-200. The densest mineral wool, which is also fire resistant.

Mats are convenient to use on the floor

How to properly insulate walls with mineral wool

Let's first talk about what can ruin all your work.

Errors in installing mineral wool slabs

• Lack of surface preparation. It should be smooth, clean and treated with an antiseptic (if it is wood).
• Carrying out work during rainfall or leaving finished work unprotected from rain.
• Insufficient application of glue. It is correct when it is distributed over the entire surface, including the perimeter. The most suitable glue is polyurethane foam or dry mixture. The first product is easier and faster to work with, but it is a little more expensive. Both products are resistant to external influences and guarantee good adhesion.
• Unfilled seams between insulation parts. They can only be closed with inserts made of the same material. The maximum gap is 2 mm.
• Intersection of slabs at window and door corners. There should be no joint in these places.
• Lack of mechanical fastenings. Anchors and dowels are used as additional connections for heavy sheets. The optimal quantity is 3-4 pieces per piece (two in the corners, 1 or 2 in the center).
• Smooth mounting, joint to joint. Craftsmen advise installing elements in a checkerboard pattern - this makes it easier to avoid gaps in the structure.

These are the main mistakes that people make when doing thermal insulation at home on their own.

Instructions for insulating the walls of a house with mineral wool from the outside

You will need a metal profile or timber to create the sheathing, accompanying tools for building the frame, a knife or saw, fasteners and a membrane film for vapor barrier. There are two methods. Let's consider one of them. The work is carried out in several stages.

• Surface preparation. You need to remove all old layers of plaster and other finishing from it, clean off dirt and mold, carry out processing and remove all unevenness with a primer.
• Installation of the frame. After the primer has dried, mount the guides at a short distance from the facade - approximately 10-15 cm in increments of 60-100 cm, 1-2 cm less than the width of the block or roll.
• A film is placed under the first layer - with the smooth side facing the stove and the vapor-absorbing side inside. It is attached with double-sided tape or a stapler.
• The first layer of cotton wool is attached on top. Usually a softer one is chosen so that it hides any depressions or bulges if they remain after leveling. The slabs are laid from bottom to top, and the rolls from top to bottom.
• Next, more rigid elements are installed. For reliability, they can be secured with a construction stapler or mushroom dowels.
• Another layer of vapor barrier is placed on top (the film is not stretched), lathing and cladding.

In the case of mounting under a frame, it is important to know in advance the size of the mineral wool insulation for the walls in order to correctly calculate the distance between the profiles.

Rules for installing mineral wool slabs

The house is insulated from the outside in one of three possible ways:

• "well" system;
• ventilated facade;
• "wet" method.

The first involves placing mineral wool slabs inside the wall, that is, between the base material (brick, foam concrete, etc.) and the external cladding (sand-lime brick, cellular concrete).

For wooden buildings, ventilated facade technology is more often used, in which a frame is placed around the perimeter of the house, and slabs of material are tightly placed inside it. Fastening is carried out using adhesives or plastic dowels with a wide head. All work is quickly done with your own hands, and without outside help.

The good thing about this method is that there is no need for an additional layer of vapor barrier. The resulting ventilation gap between the wool and the lining allows air to circulate, preventing moisture from stagnating inside the insulation, and also shifts the dew point beyond the wool. Therefore, the purchased material will not shrink, will not get wet, and will maintain the service life specified by the manufacturer.

With the wet method, insulation boards are attached to the original surface, previously leveled, after which plaster or other special solution is applied on top of them in a layer of about 2-3 cm. The method includes the following steps:

• cleaning the surface, filling holes, crevices, cracks;
• installation of basement cornice;
• gluing thermal insulation material;
• additional reinforcement - fastening dowels;
• application of reinforcing mesh;
• surface primer;
• plastering (decorative or rough);
• dyeing in the desired color.

The classic way to install insulation on wooden walls with your own hands using the type of ventilated facade is to perform the following steps:

• impregnation of the walls with an antiseptic, and the places where rot appears - with special solutions;
• dismantling of platbands, slopes;
• drying the walls (minimum period - 1 day);
• laying a layer of vapor-permeable membrane, with the smooth side of the material facing the insulation;
• if the walls are perfectly smooth, it is not necessary to use a membrane;
• fastening wooden slats on top of the film with screws, nails or dowels; the distance between the slats should be 1-2 cm less than the width of the mineral wool slabs, so that it fits inside the sheathing, and the thickness should be equal to the thickness of the latter;
• laying thermal insulation boards inside the resulting sheathing;
• one more additional layer - wind protection (waterproofing) - is attached with staples of a construction stapler;
• in order to create a ventilated gap on top of the bars (lathing), counter-battens are refilled so that the facing material is located at a distance of 5-7 cm from the insulation;
• since the thickness of the walls has increased, you will have to purchase new platbands, slopes, etc.

If the stages of fastening mineral wool to external walls with your own hands are carried out correctly, there is no doubt that the material will fulfill the service life prescribed by the manufacturer. For most fiber insulation brands such as Ursa or RockWool, it ranges from 50 to 70 years.

The consumer must remember that slabs with the highest density will significantly make the structure heavier, so one should not assume that the most massive option is the best. Even if the choice of thermal insulation is made correctly, and insulating the walls outside with mineral wool seems like a simple task, this does not free the user from additional work, such as preparing the surface of the house or attaching water and vapor barriers.

How much material is needed for roof insulation?

To understand how much insulation is needed, you need to make preliminary calculations, focusing on the type of roof and its dimensions

It is important to remember that when installing mineral wool thermal insulation, the material is laid out, that is, its width should be 1-2 centimeters larger than the gap between the rafters

Roof insulation with mineral woolSource nkkrovlia.info

The calculation allows you to determine how many slabs to place along and across the roof slope

To perform it, the length of the slope and the distance between the rafters, as well as the number of rafter steps are taken into account

Tips for choosing insulation

It is worth approaching the choice of material for roof insulation with all responsibility.

There are a number of standard rules that will be useful in this case: The mass of insulating materials should be minimal. This will not only make the insulation process much easier, but will also reduce the load on the roof structure as a whole, which is extremely important. The environmental performance of the material is also one of the the most important factors when choosing. Due to the fact that the roof is constantly exposed to various climatic influences and temperature changes, the release of toxic substances cannot be avoided. Particular attention should be paid to the warranty period of the insulating material. Experts consider the optimal period to be 50 years. Increased noise absorption and heat resistance will be a significant plus. This is especially important when they plan to cover the roof with metal tiles. Moisture absorption is also considered one of the main indicators.

When a material actively absorbs moisture, its service life is noticeably reduced compared to more moisture-repellent insulation materials. Sooner or later, it will definitely develop fungi and mold, which can ultimately destroy the entire roof structure. Important! It is advisable to insulate flat roofs with environmentally friendly and styrene materials, while for pitched roofs, cotton wool insulation is more suitable. Insulating a roof is an extremely responsible matter. The final result of this process depends not only on the correct actions of the builders, but also on the correct choice of building materials.

Suitable insulation will allow you to build an excellent roof that will serve reliably for many years and will help avoid unnecessary costs for repairs and alterations. Anyone will be pleased with the prospect of a thirty percent reduction in home heating costs. This is quite realistic - this is exactly the result that can be obtained by choosing the right insulation for the roof. In addition, we will receive other additional benefits. More on this later.

Let's calculate what the presence of insulation under the roof will give to our house. Let us emphasize - not just any kind of insulation, but good insulation. So, we get: Additional protection from dust and moisture; the ability to live in the attic, i.e.

equip living space in the attic; escape from the summer heat; optimal humidity in the house; saving on heating; reducing external noise. Perhaps it is now clear that insulation for the roof is necessary. But for different types of roofs and design solutions, different types of insulation are used. We will talk about this further.

Ceiling insulation with a cold roof

If the attic is not used during the cold season, then only the attic floor is insulated, leaving the roof without insulation.

If there is no living room in the attic, then thermal insulation of the ceiling will allow heating only those rooms that are usedSource chudopol.ru

When insulating an attic floor, a layer of insulation is placed on top of the floor itself and covers, among other things, the ends of the walls. If you place the insulation layer inside, the ceiling walls will still radiate heat outside.

This method of insulation significantly simplifies installation work. After all, laying it on a flat surface under the roof is easier than securing the material to the slopes.

Advantages and disadvantages

In order to know exactly which material should be chosen as insulation, it is worth understanding its positive and negative sides. Thermal insulation with mineral wool has the following advantages:

• low thermal conductivity, which allows us to distinguish this material as one of the most successful for the insulation procedure;
• low fire hazard due to the non-flammability of the wool composition;
• stability of the state of mineral wool at different temperatures, the slab has the same appearance without undergoing any changes;
• resistance to moisture absorption from the process of vapor movement between the insulation and the wall, this makes it possible to protect the walls from dampness;
• the insulation composition is resistant to chemical and physical factors;
• good vapor permeability, which allows the slabs to breathe;
• good sound insulation performance, which is achieved by the elastic structure of the canvas and has an acoustic effect, which provides complete protection from external noise;
• ease of installation work;
• long service life, which can be a minimum of 25 and a maximum of 55 years under optimal conditions of use.

Based on all of the above, we can conclude that mineral wool is an excellent material for insulating a room. However, this universal insulation also has its drawbacks.

• Additional treatment of the product with a water-repellent preparation so that the fibers do not absorb unnecessary moisture. If this is not done, wet materials will not do their job as well, and the insulation will be much worse.
• Large weight of the material, which is significant if you order the delivery of such materials by transport companies.
• The presence of a small amount of phenol-formaldehyde resin, which is harmful to humans. The content of this substance is very small and cannot cause harm, but there is always the possibility of special sensitivity to it, which can put your health at unreasonable risk.
• There is a danger of fiberglass fibers getting into the respiratory tract and the mucous membrane of the eye, which forces the use of protective equipment during installation work.

When purchasing mineral wool, you should pay attention to the manufacturer, because the quality of the product often depends on this. Trusted and large companies make more reliable, environmentally friendly and high-quality cotton wool than small suppliers, especially those that sell the product much cheaper than its market value

Qualities to look out for

When choosing roofing material, you need to pay attention to the following factors:

Weight (ranges from 10-320 kg per cubic meter).

It is primarily affected by density (the higher it is, the heavier the cubic meter). When finishing a wooden house, it is advisable to give preference to lightweight materials so as not to weigh down the structure. For a flat roof (for example, a garage) with durable floors, you can use heavier analogues. Thermal conductivity (the ability to transfer heat) is a key indicator for finishing a private house; the lower it is, the better.

The required thickness of the insulating layer also depends on it. Most modern materials have a reading below 0.04 W/m*C, which is quite sufficient even for the Russian climate. For flat roofs, it is recommended to use loose-fill insulation.

Advice: for northern regions it is better to purchase analogues with improved characteristics. Otherwise, you will have to make several layers, which will greatly increase the thickness of the layer.

Density. This characteristic determines how tightly the thermal insulation will adhere to the roof. For a flat roof this may not be so important, but for pitched structures it is significant.

Icicles and ice will appear in the wasteland in winter. However, too high a density can affect thermal conductivity. It is important to find the golden mean. Water absorption.

If the thermal insulation layer accumulates moisture, this will negatively affect its performance. In such cases, it becomes necessary to create a waterproofing layer (especially important for flat roofs). Vapor permeability. If this indicator is high, then condensation will appear, which will adversely affect the protection of the house from cold air.

Therefore, in such situations, a vapor-permeable layer is created, which entails additional costs. Therefore, it is better to equip the house with insulation with low vapor permeability (this applies not only to the roof, but also to other components of the building). Flammability. If you want to ensure the safety of your home, it is better to opt for non-flammable models.

This is especially true for buildings made of wood. However, such a measure will entail an increase in expenses - such analogues are much more expensive. The ability to maintain its shape. During operation, deformation of the material occurs, as a result of which cracks and voids are formed in the ceilings.

Distortions are possible on pitched structures. This indicator directly depends on the density - the higher it is, the better the geometric shapes are preserved. Sound insulation. If you choose an option with a high sound absorption rating, you will not hear the impact of raindrops or hail.

The data presented above will help you decide how best to insulate your roof. Next, we will consider the most popular options today and their features. This will help you decide which one to choose.

Types of insulation for roofs, comparison of properties and installation technologies

In this article we will tell you how to choose the right insulation for your roof.

What parameters need to be paid attention to, the stages of proper assembly of a heat-insulating pie on a roofing structure. After reading the article, you will be able to communicate “on the same wavelength” with the foreman about choosing the right material, and, if necessary, supervise the workers performing thermal insulation of the roofing system

Roof insulation

Requirements for insulation

Let us immediately note that there are many criteria for thermal insulation materials. And each of them does not meet all the criteria. Different insulation materials have pros and cons. And the consumer always faces a choice, giving preference to one or another characteristic.

So, if we talk about ideal roof insulation, it must meet the following criteria:

Low thermal conductivity. Here the question is posed like this: the lower, the better. But there is an upper limit - no more than 0.05 W/m K.

Density. Excessive loads on the roof structure are not necessary. Therefore, the less the thermal insulation material weighs, the better.

Low hygroscopicity. This is the property of a material to absorb moisture. As humidity increases, the thermal properties of insulation decrease. And although today the problem is solved by the use of protective films, it is better to give preference to those products that have a low characteristic.

Fire safety indicator. Unfortunately, it must be said that a large number of thermal insulation materials cannot correspond to the maximum value of this parameter. But among them there are those that do not burn and do not support combustion.

Many insulation materials burn well

Stable condition. That is, during operation, the insulation should not change its shape and size.

It should not be a place where harmful microorganisms, rodents, insects or birds would appear.

The insulation must not be dangerous to humans.

On our website you can find contacts of construction companies that offer the service of calculating and carrying out turnkey insulation work for a private house. You can communicate directly with representatives by visiting the “Low-Rise Country” exhibition of houses.

The best insulation

The criteria have been outlined, let’s try them on with different roof insulation materials and decide which one is the best. This article will not discuss bulk-type materials that are used to insulate flat roofs. Let's consider slab and sprayed types.

Board insulation is a material with a fibrous or gas-filled porous structure. Sprayed ones also belong to porous materials, but their method of application is foam, which in air turns into a durable heat-insulating mass.

It should be noted that fibrous insulation, of which mineral wool is a prominent representative, are hygroscopic products. Therefore, they are covered with protective membranes on both sides. Today, many manufacturers offer mineral wool, in which this parameter is greatly reduced. But experts recommend not to abandon protective films when mineral wool is chosen as insulation for the roof.

Mineral wool must be covered with protective films

Characteristics of thermal insulation materials

To choose the best thermal insulation material for a roof, you need to compare the characteristics between them. Let's put them in one table. But let’s first indicate that we will compare three materials: mineral wool, polystyrene foam boards, polyurethane foam. They are most often used for thermal insulation of pitched roofs. That is, the dispute - roof insulation: which one is better - will be resolved between them.