What types of insulation are there: advantages and disadvantages

Good thermal insulation will not be superfluous at any temperature. If you do it well and choose the right insulation, the house will be more warm in the cold season, and cooler in the summer heat. Knowing what types of insulation there are , you can easily choose the best option for interior or exterior decoration.

Variety of types of thermal insulators

What types of insulation are there?

There are several criteria for dividing thermal insulators into certain groups. The classification is based on the purpose, form and composition of materials.

Types of insulation according to shape

When choosing a material according to this criterion, you need to take into account what surface it will be mounted on. For external walls, slab or block heat insulators are more suitable. It is better to insulate the inside of the house with fibrous or rolled materials.

Table 1. Types of thermal insulation materials by shape:

To choose the right insulation, you need to have a good understanding of its types. Then it will last longer and will perform its functions fully.

Types of insulation by composition

This classification is based on the raw materials from which the products are made. Natural-based insulation materials are more suitable for interior decoration, while artificial materials are used for external thermal insulation or for rooms with high humidity.

Table 2. Classification by composition:

Each type of material has its own set of characteristics. It is used to determine how suitable it is for insulating a particular object.

Types of insulation based on operating principle

Thermal insulation comes in two types – reflective and preventive . The first type reduces heat consumption by lowering the level of infrared light.

Instead of retaining heat, reflective insulation prevents infrared radiation from passing freely through the walls of the home. They do not transmit heat, but reflect it. Most often, aluminum foil is used for these purposes. The surface of this material can reflect 90-97% of the heat that hits it.

Aluminum foil is laid in several layers. The last layer is covered with polyethylene. Such insulation does not take up much space, but at the same time maintains a comfortable microclimate in the house for a long time and at the same time serves as a vapor barrier.

Reflective type of insulation – aluminum foil

The second type involves the use of insulation with low thermal conductivity. For its manufacture, different groups of materials are used - organic and inorganic. Such heat insulators operate according to a specific mechanism. Their role is to slow down the process of heat passage - so that it does not escape outside for as long as possible.

Reflective type thermal insulation

Insulation materials, called reflective or reflective, work on the principle of slowing down the movement of heat. After all, every building material is capable of absorbing this heat and then radiating it. As is known, heat loss occurs mainly due to the exit of infrared rays from the building. They easily penetrate even materials with low thermal conductivity.

But there are other substances - their surface is capable of reflecting from 97 to 99 percent of the heat reaching it. These are, for example, silver, gold and polished aluminum without impurities. By taking one of these materials and constructing a thermal barrier using polyethylene film, you can get an excellent thermal insulator. Moreover, it will also serve as a vapor barrier. Therefore, it is ideal for insulating a bathhouse or sauna.

Today's reflective insulation is polished aluminum (one or two layers) plus polyethylene foam (one layer). This material is thin, but gives a tangible result. So, with a thickness of such insulation from 1 to 2.5 centimeters, the effect will be the same as when using a fibrous heat insulator from 10 to 27 centimeters thick. As an example, let's name Armofol, Ecofol, Porilex, Penofol.

One of the types of reflective thermal insulation.

Insulation for a wooden house

Wood is considered a special type of material. Walls made from it should be well ventilated and have less contact with moisture. Therefore, not all types of heat insulators are suitable for wooden buildings. Mineral wool or penoizol are most suitable for this purpose.

“Foam plastic cannot be used to insulate a wooden house. It will prevent the tree from “breathing” normally. As a result, condensation forms on the walls, which will lead to the appearance of fungus and mold, and the wood will begin to rot.”

Mineral wool

It has a fibrous structure and is made from molten glass with the addition of rock. It has a good set of characteristics:

• easily withstands high temperatures;
• unaffected by chemicals;
• low thermal conductivity;
• excellent sound insulation;
• elasticity, ease of installation;
• environmental friendliness;
• service life is within 30-80 years.

Available in rolls or slabs. Roll insulation is more often used for large buildings, and slabs for small houses. Does not require additional fixation.

Mineral wool

“When working with it, you must always use protective clothing and a mask.”

Rodents do not eat this material, but if you do not cover it with finishing, they can live in it. Mineral wool can be used to insulate houses made from wooden beams and using frame technology.

Prices for mineral wool

Minvata

Penoizol

The texture resembles ordinary foam, but its mechanism of action is similar to that of a mounting foam. The material is applied to a special frame. Within 24 hours it dries and becomes hard.

Penoizol

Features of penoizol:

• average level of vapor permeability;
• completely fireproof - can go out on its own in case of fire;
• not afraid of moisture;
• during installation it fills the existing voids.

To work with this material you will need special tools.

Mixed

Insulation materials of this group consist of both natural fibers and synthetic ones. The percentage of natural and non-natural materials depends on the manufacturer.

Batting

Batting is a textile material that, in terms of production technology and composition (cotton, wool), is similar to cotton wool, but of a special variety. Batting is used as a lining for warm outerwear.

Batting is made from:

• wool;
• cotton;
• viscose;
• synthetics;
• wool blends - a combination of natural wool (about 30%) with cotton, polyester fibers or viscose;
• textile industry waste - threads, pieces of fabric.

Scope of application in clothing manufacturing:

• work clothes and overalls;
• balaclavas;
• mittens;
• lining for pants and outerwear;
• shoe lining.

Pros of batting:

• hygroscopicity (quickly absorbs and quickly evaporates moisture);
• wear resistance;
• excellent air permeability;
• does not cause allergies;
• low price.

Cons of batting:

• heavy;
• material made from natural wool should be protected from moths;
• over time - rolls off;
• with prolonged use, rarefied areas may form;
• low warming properties (preferably used down to −5°C).

Sherstepon

Sherstepon is a non-woven insulation material produced in Russia. Made from natural animal wool and polyester fibers.

Sherstepon

The sherstepon fabric does not pill, unlike natural wool. Retains heat well, absorbs and removes moisture well.

It is used for the manufacture of outerwear, travel equipment, workwear for active recreation, and hats.

Sherstepon is very easy to care for - it can be washed by hand and machine on a delicate cycle. It is not recommended to squeeze by twisting or at high speeds. It is better to let the water drain spontaneously.

Advantages of Sherstepon:

• hygroscopicity. Quickly absorbs and quickly evaporates moisture;
• durability;
• high hygienic qualities;
• lightness, plasticity;
• holds its shape well.

Disadvantages of shestepon (associated with poor-quality production):

• may become prone to deformation;
• moths may appear;
• static electricity;
• allergy.

Alpolux

Alpolux is a insulation material developed by Austrian technologists for the Russian climate. The insulation composition includes natural merino sheep wool (15% - 30%) and polyester microfibers. Very good for cold climates.

Alpolux

Main uses of Alpolux:

• casual warm clothes (adults and children);
• sportswear for active recreation;
• workwear for cold weather;
• ski equipment (overalls, jackets, hats).

Temperature compliance table:

Advantages of Alpolux insulation:

• good breathability (clothing removes moisture well);
• high wear resistance and strength;
• environmentally friendly and hypoallergenic;
• retains its shape well;
• retains body heat well;
• light and elastic;
• does not accumulate odors.

Machine washable (no higher than 40°C, delicate cycle). Ironing at minimum iron temperature is acceptable.

Personal experience of using Alpolux insulation

I used Alpolux when sewing snowboard overalls and children's autumn pants. It is very pleasant to work with since both sides are calendered. The insulation does not move apart in layers and glides well under the foot.

After washing it does not deform or pill, so it is not necessary to quilt it. Personally, I do at least 1-2 securing stitches on larger pieces (like legs, fronts, etc.).

For snowboard overalls, Alpolux 100 g/m² was used for lining, fleece for the back and front, and taffeta for the legs and sleeves. The top layer is entirely made of 3000/3000 membrane.

The women's overalls were designed for good activity, so the insulation was thin. It is very convenient to vary the temperature using thermal underwear and a second layer (underwear). Due to this, I was able to use it in different conditions:

1. Rosa Khutor Peak (about −10°C) - thin thermal underwear for snowboarding.
2. Rose plateau (about 0°C) - even in thin thermal underwear it was already getting hot and I had to unzip all the ventilation and the central zipper.
3. Climbing Elbrus is not much activity, we go slowly. At the top there was snow and wind, the temperature was about −20°C. I’m wearing thick thermal underwear, leggings + long sleeve (fleece) + fleece jacket. It froze during stops. But considering that the membrane perfectly protects from the wind, it was warm almost the entire way to the top.

When sewing demi-season pants, Alpolux insulation 100 g/m² + foil fabric was also used for lining. The top layer consisted of a Vancouver membrane. These pants could be worn comfortably down to −5°C.

Woolstikron

Woolstikron - insulation is made from synthetic and natural fibers (sheep or camel wool up to 70%). Compared to insulation made from polyester fibers, it has excellent wind protection. Can absorb up to 30% moisture and still remain dry. Has good vapor permeability.

Woolstikron

Woolstikron combines the lightness of padding polyester and the properties of wool. It has high heat-protective qualities. Well suited for sewing clothes used in extreme climatic conditions. The unique natural and environmental properties of wool have a beneficial effect on the human body.

What are the sizes of insulation?

Insulation dimensions are an important criterion

What type of insulation is there?

The main criterion when choosing the size of a heat insulator is its thickness. Length and width do not play a big role. They are taken into account only when calculating the required amount of materials. The dimensions of the insulation depend on its type.

Table 3. Insulation dimensions:

When purchasing materials, you need to pay attention to the area of ​​the roll or slab. It is usually indicated on the packaging. To calculate how much insulation you will need, you need to do the following:

1. Calculate the perimeter of the building - add the length and width. Multiply this amount by 2.
2. Measure the height and multiply this value by the perimeter of the house.
3. Divide the resulting value by the area of ​​one roll or slab.
4. Multiply this number by 0.15.

“It is recommended to lay roll insulation with a small margin. Also, any material is subject to shrinkage, so always add to the calculations 10-15%».

Insulation of the house

To reduce heating costs and keep your home warm for a long time, you need to choose a high-quality heat insulator. If you need to insulate a house from the outside, it is better to use inorganic materials - they are less exposed to the external environment.

Facade thermal panels

An excellent solution for insulating the outside walls of a house are thermal panels (“What are thermal panels”).

Thermal panels

The main advantage of such panels is the combination of insulation and decorative components. Thanks to this, thermal panels simultaneously perform three functions:

1. insulate walls;
2. protect walls from exposure to environmental conditions;
3. give the building a neat appearance.

Note: Thermal panels are based on PPU, EPS or EPS.

Best materials

Each material, even the best, has its own disadvantages and advantages. And no matter how many different materials are on sale, it is very difficult to determine which insulation for a home is better, without knowing all the nuances. Moreover, during operation they may behave differently than you expected and this must be foreseen.

Insulation of a timber house

Top 10: the most effective and safe materials for insulation

What is the best insulation for a home? Below is a list of the most effective and environmentally friendly materials for thermal insulation of premises:

1. TechnoNIKOL Rocklight 1200×600x50mm 8 pcs.

2. (XPS) PENOPLEX Comfort 118.5x58.5cm 50mm 7 pcs.

3. Armor Nord

4. EnergoflexSuper 28/9mm 2 m

5. Technoplex 120x60cm 20mm 20 pcs.

6. (EPS) KNAUF ThermWALL PRO 100x120cm 100mm 10 pcs.

7. Rockwool Rock façade 1000×600x50mm 4 pcs.

8. Roll Penofol 2000 C-05 0.6m 5mm

9. Rockwool 800x600x50mm 12 pcs.

10. Roll MOSFOL NPE-PL 1.2m 10mm

Synthetic

The most extensive group of modern materials with high heat-saving characteristics. As a rule, synthetic insulation materials contain polyester fiber.

Sintepon

Sintepon is a non-woven artificial material. Made from polyester fiber. Sintepon can be siliconized - with the addition of silicone fibers bonded thermally. This gives the insulation better restorative properties. Insects and mold do not grow in padding polyester.

Sintepon

This type of insulation is suitable for everyday warm clothing, but is not suitable for sportswear and outdoor activities.

Temperature compliance table:

To extend the life of the insulation, try to wash the item as rarely as possible. Follow the washing instructions printed on your clothing. If they are not there, then wash them on a delicate cycle at no more than 30°C and separately from other items. It is better to dry clothes in a horizontal position. Do not use an iron as the insulation may melt due to the low melting point.

Advantages of padding polyester:

• low cost;
• fiber elasticity;
• quick recovery of shape;
• practicality.

Disadvantages of padding polyester:

• static electricity;
• fragility;
• the glue used for production may be toxic;
• not suitable for temperatures below −10°C;
• does not allow air to pass through well.

Personal experience of using padding polyester

I used 200 g padding polyester when sewing bumpers for a baby crib. There was no smell from it, it held its shape well and was soft.

I used synthetic winterizer 100 g/m² when sewing an autumn parka for me and my daughter. The insulation was attached to the lining, which was made of thin taffeta. The top layer of the parka consisted of a Vancouver membrane. The parks were perfect for the off-season, for walking at temperatures around +15°C. For lower temperatures of about +10°C, it was already necessary to wear thick fleece jackets or thermal underwear.

Holofiber

Holofiber is a non-woven material consisting of chemical fibers. It is very practical and lightweight, does not cause allergies, and perfectly restores its shape after repeated use. Does not lose its properties after repeated washing and cleaning. Does not absorb moisture and odors.

Holofiber

Available in the form of: sheets, sheets, tapes, multilayer materials, fiber balls.

Holofiber insulation line:

• HARD and MEDIUM - used in the production of furniture and mattresses, in construction;
• SOFT - used for everyday clothing, workwear, and travel equipment;
• VOLUMETRIC - intended for textile and furniture products;
• FOOT - for the production of shoes;
• BUILD - used in construction;
• PAFS - in the form of balls. Designed for textile and furniture products.

Table of correspondence to the temperature conditions of Holofiber SOFT insulation:

Suitable for both casual wear and sportswear (for active recreation).

Advantages of holofiber:

• does not retain moisture;
• retains its shape;
• light and soft;
• retains heat well;
• antistatic;
• hypoallergenic;
• wear-resistant.

Disadvantages of holofiber:

• not cheap;
• does not take the shape of the body, but “springs” from it.

More detailed information about insulation and its properties can be found on the Holofiber website.

Hollophan

Hollophan is a non-woven material made from polyester fiber, which is formed from a melt of polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Due to its hollow structure, it retains heat well and evaporates excess moisture. You can also find the name of the hollofan - “Alaska”.

Suitable for warming casual and sportswear for any age. Holofane has also found application in sewing workwear.

Temperature compliance table:

Clothes made from holophane can be machine washed up to 40°C.

Advantages of holophane:

• easy;
• hypoallergenic;
• environmentally friendly;
• does not change shape and properties when wet;
• does not retain odors;
• not afraid of high and low temperatures;
• resistant to chemicals;
• wear-resistant.

This insulation has no obvious disadvantages. If you have encountered any troubles when using the holophane, please write about it in the comments to the article.

Thinsulate

Thinsulate is a non-woven material made from synthetic fibers (polyester and olefin). Due to its structure, the insulation has excellent heat-insulating properties. Withstands frosts down to −60°C.

Allows both manual and automatic washing (up to 40°C) and dry cleaning. Do not use an iron, otherwise the insulation will melt.

Scope of application in clothing manufacturing:

• casual;
• for the military;
• for active recreation (winter sports and tourism);
• workwear;
• professional;
• hats and gloves.

Several types of Thinsulate are produced:

• CS (thickness: 3 - 17.5 mm) - used in the production of everyday (urban) outerwear, hats, gloves. The most high-tech and affordable type of insulation. Has a non-woven lining on one side;
• P (thickness: 10 - 21 mm) - designed for the manufacture of children's clothing. It is ahead of other varieties in terms of heat and weight ratio;
• B (thickness: 2 - 8 mm) - a highly specialized type designed for the production of winter and demi-season shoes;
• G - used for insulating sports and professional clothing. The peculiarity of this variety is the ability to dry quickly, moisture resistance and excellent drapability;
• J - used in the manufacture of outerwear, sports items, accessories and haberdashery. It has high compressibility and the ability to take its original shape, as well as compatibility with raincoat and quilted fabrics;
• TIB (thickness: 17 - 25 mm) - designed for creating regular and quilted duvets, blankets, sleeping bags and bedspreads;
• FR (thickness: 12 - 18 mm) - is the most fire resistant. Used for the production of professional fire-resistant clothing (for fire services, the Ministry of Emergency Situations, etc.). It contains meta-reinforced fiber (65%), capable of withstanding long-term thermal loads up to 250°C.

Table of correspondence to the temperature conditions of Thinsulate J insulation:

Advantages of Thinsulate insulation:

• moisture resistance;
• plastic;
• hypoallergenic;
• high thermal insulation properties;
• keeps its shape well.

Disadvantages of Thinsulate insulation:

• lack of wind protection;
• accumulates static electricity;
• the price is above average.

If you have encountered any troubles when using the Thinsulate, please write about it in the comments to the article.

More detailed information about the insulation and its properties can be read on the Thinsulate3M website.

Siberia

Siberia is a Russian-made non-woven material consisting of 100% virgin polyester fiber. Has high heat-saving properties.

Siberia

Advantages of insulation:

• soft;
• ideal for cutting;
• breathes freely;
• lasting;
• environmentally friendly;
• hypoallergenic.

This insulation has no obvious disadvantages. If you have encountered any troubles while operating Siberia, please write about it in the comments to the article.

Siberia insulation line:

• Classic is a universal insulation for a wide range of applications. It is produced in two versions: with a calender (soft crust on both sides) and without a calender. Suitable for workwear, outerwear, travel equipment and home textiles;

• Micro - contains fine-fibered polyester fibers. Suitable for the production of light and thin clothing for sports and outdoor activities;

• Velvet - consists of polyester silicone fibers. Designed to ensure that the products are soft and very pleasant to the touch. It is also available in two versions: with and without calender;

• Husky is a three-layer material consisting of polyester fibers and two ultra-thin layers of polypropylene. Suitable for casual, special and dress wear;

• Slim is the thinnest in the Siberia line. Made from the finest fibers, but at the same time has excellent thermal insulation properties. For comparison, the thickness of the standard 100 gram is 10 mm, and the Slim is only 2 mm. Ideal for spring clothes or for clothes that require a lack of volume;

• Drops - filler for stuffing pillows, furniture, toys, clothes. Presented in the form of balls (diameter 5 mm). Safe and hypoallergenic. Not afraid of washing;
• Super Drops - like Dpors, is a filler in the form of balls, but with a smaller diameter of 2.5 mm;
• Pooh is an ultra-fine microfiber filling. The feel is in no way inferior to natural down. Suitable for pillows, blankets, toys and home textiles.

Siberia can be washed at 40°C, ironed on synthetic mode, without steam.

Read more information on this insulation on the website of the manufacturer Siberia

Manufacturers

Due to the constantly increasing demand for thermal insulation materials, along with the import of imported materials - European, less often American, produced, domestic manufacturers began to expand and develop. Today, both European and Russian brands are present on the shelves of construction hypermarkets. Here are the most popular ones:

• Ursa

One of the leaders in this field of building materials. This is a subsidiary of the large Spanish concern Uralita. In fact, Ursa insulation products are regularly supplied to both the Russian and European markets, where they are also very popular.

Thermal insulation of this brand is produced in different variations, but the most popular type is small insulation slabs or mats. They are convenient to use for installing ventilated building facades, insulating roofs, floors, and partitions. But it is also possible to insulate heating mains and high-rise buildings for private and industrial purposes.

• Partex

A well-known Finnish company in the world construction markets, its production facilities are located in the cities of Poland, Lithuania and Finland. This brand is represented on the Russian market under the Paros brand, which offers the widest range of stone wool insulation materials. This heat insulator is available in the form of slabs, mats and rolls of soft and rigid construction.

This insulation is popular among private buyers; it is convenient to sheathe detached households and multi-storey residential buildings with it. The properties of Paros thermal insulators: high vapor permeability, excellent thermal insulation properties, durability and lack of deformation, make this material convenient and universal for use in civil construction.

• Isover

The widely known Finnish brand is actually a subsidiary of a large French concern. Their insulation is made on the basis of fiberglass, widespread both in Europe and in Russia and has remained popular for many years.

Universal thermal insulation for insulation of pitched roofs, attics, external walls, partitions, suspended ceilings.

• "Penoplex"

This is the largest Russian manufacturer of expanded polystyrene, which produces insulation for both private and industrial buildings, as well as for various utilities.

Choosing a method of insulation

Insulation of walls can be external and internal: the option with external insulation is more preferable and more effective. But there are situations when it is not possible to insulate the walls from the outside.

For example, a ban by the architectural commission: the building is an architectural monument, the appearance of which is not recommended to be changed. Or when an unheated workroom is discovered behind the wall, in which it is impossible to insulate the walls.

In such cases, internal wall insulation with various types of insulation will be the ideal way out.

Insulating walls from the outside with mineral wool and glass wool is much more effective and efficient than insulating the interior surface of the room with them.

It is necessary to approach the issue of choosing insulation with great responsibility, study the characteristics of each type, and select them taking into account the building materials from which the walls of your house are made.

Incorrectly selected material will not help achieve the desired goal and can only make the situation worse. For example, after improper installation of insulation, the wall not only does not retain heat, but in winter it freezes even more than before.

In most cases, if the wall is not properly sealed, after a certain period of time condensation becomes dangerous for the insulation material and for the wall itself.

The material and the wall are saturated with moisture, as a result the insulation effect is reduced to zero, and the walls of the building begin to gradually collapse from infection with fungus.

Incorrect installation of the structure and improper sealing will be one of the key points of heat loss in the room and contamination of the surface with fungus

In order not to encounter these problems for many years after repair and insulation of the surface, you must strictly adhere to the technical installation recommendations.

Equally important is the correct sealing of the seams of the internal walls of the house, the joints between the insulation boards and the wall surface when it is attached.

Recommendations for carrying out insulation work

Insulation work is best carried out in the summer, when air humidity is minimal.

The walls for insulation in the room must be perfectly dry. You can dry them after additional plastering and finishing work on leveling the surfaces using construction hair dryers and heat guns.

Stages of surface insulation:

1. Cleaning the surface of decorative elements - wallpaper, paint.
2. Treating walls with antiseptic solutions, priming the surface with deep penetration into the layers of plaster.
3. In some cases, when installing polystyrene foam and electric heating elements, the walls are pre-leveled using waterproof plaster for bathrooms.
4. Installation of insulation must be carried out according to the instructions prescribed by the manufacturer for this type of material.
5. Installing a protective partition for applying the final finish, or covering the surface with a construction mesh and plastering it.
6. Creating a single composition with the overall design of the room.

Insulating walls inside a house is one of the most effective ways to protect your home from the penetration of cold and the negative effects of condensation; the main thing is to follow the technological sequence of steps. You can read more about the technology of insulating a home from the inside in this material.