In the cold season, many owners of apartments in high-rise buildings (not only “old buildings”, but also in “new buildings”), private houses/cottages, trade and industrial companies (including utilities) are faced with the problem of freezing walls on the inside and outside and condensation settling on pipes and gas pipelines. And this, in the context of rising tariffs for heat supply services, leads to serious financial losses. The modern building materials market, focusing on the needs of private and corporate consumers, is represented by a wide variety of thermal insulation materials. The most widespread types of traditional insulation materials are:
- glass wool;
- basalt thermal insulation;
- foil insulation;
- Styrofoam.
Most of them are based on mineral wool treated with various substances. One of the disadvantages of such insulation is its “sagging”, deformation over a long period of use, as well as a reduction in the volume of living space. However, modern industry does not stand still. By using the achievements of modern nanotechnology, a new type of innovative thermal insulation material was created - liquid ceramic insulation, which is used in both household and industrial areas.
- 2 Where it is used
- 3 Most popular brands of “insulating paint”
- 4 Advantages and disadvantages
- 5 Tips for Buyers
What is ceramic thermal insulation
Ceramic insulation can be applied with a compressor.
Liquid ceramic thermal insulation consists of two main components - ceramic vacuum spheres and a connecting polymer composition (mastic). In appearance and consistency it resembles thick paint. The initial color of the composition is white, but you can add a variety of colors. The size of the ceramic granules is very small, so much so that they are visually invisible.
It was invented as part of the space shuttle insulation program. Then the task was to develop an effective thermal insulation material that would have minimal weight. Every additional kilogram launched into orbit is a colossal expense, so the goals are very justified. Over time, the material became available for civil engineering.
Liquid ceramic thermal insulation can be applied in several ways:
- brush;
- roller;
- spray.
In the latter case, you need to dilute the paint with plain water. This is possible since the composition is made on an acrylic base, that is, it does not contain any solvents.
The thermal conductivity coefficient differs from different manufacturers, the lowest that could be found is 0.0012 W/m*C, but thermal conductivity is rarely indicated above 0.0025 W/m*C.
This insulation is not afraid of moisture, sunlight, is not blown by the wind and can withstand extremely high temperatures. Based on the stated characteristics, the ideal insulation is liquid ceramic thermal insulation. Reviews from those who have already tried this product are somewhat different from marketing ploys. We'll talk about this a little later.
The most popular manufacturers of insulation paint:
- Astratek;
- Corundum;
- Akterm.
Features of the composition
Ceramic liquid thermal insulation is practically no different in appearance from the acrylic paint we are used to.
Today, there are several types of insulating compounds, but almost all of them have the same structure:
- The basis of liquid ceramics is a water-acrylic mixture. It ensures uniform distribution of insulating components over the surface and helps to secure the thermal insulation.
- As additional components, various additives to improve the performance characteristics of the material. The most popular additives include artificial and natural rubbers, silicone, etc.
- The main component responsible for reducing heat loss by the treated surface is ceramic granules filled with highly rarefied air. The microscopic dimensions of the granules and the almost ideal spherical shape make it possible to apply the composition very thinly to the wall.
Material structure
Note! For high-quality varieties of liquid ceramic thermal insulation, subject to complete polymerization, the proportion of voids in the insulating layer is about 75-80%. This allows you to create an ultra-thin layer on the treated surface with a very high heat transfer resistance.
Advantages and disadvantages
Compared to traditional insulation, liquid heat insulator based on ceramic microspheres has a number of advantages:
- Firstly, when insulating a house from the outside, the useful volume of the room is not lost. A thin layer of paintable insulation cannot be compared with sheathing made of mineral wool or other porous materials, so for rooms with a small area, the use of this composition can be an excellent solution.
The principle of operation of thermal paint
- Secondly, the applied layer does not degrade over time. The guaranteed service life of a ceramic coating is up to 15 years , but with proper care (application of finishing and timely cleaning), this time can be at least doubled.
- Thirdly, the mass of the material is insignificant, due to which no additional load is created on the supporting structures. This advantage of the material is especially pronounced when finishing roofs.
- Another plus is the ease of surface treatment: liquid ceramics are applied no more difficult than ordinary paint, and therefore are excellent for insulating complex architectural forms and rooms with non-linear configurations.
Photo of the treated surface
Among other things, it is worth noting the compatibility of most compositions on the market with facade and interior paints, decorative plasters, etc. At the same time, no primer is required for finishing the ceramic layer!
Note! Insulation of pipelines, outbuildings, etc. can be carried out without decorative finishing - the aesthetic appearance of the coating after polymerization allows this.
When talking about the disadvantages of ceramic insulation, they most often mention the rather high cost of the material. However, if earlier, when only foreign brands were represented on the market, this was fair, today the situation has changed somewhat. Domestic brands, such as liquid ceramic thermal insulation coating Corundum, can be purchased at quite affordable prices.
Advantages and disadvantages
Since ultra-thin liquid heat insulator has appeared on the construction market relatively recently (about 10 years), consumer reviews about this material are mixed.
The advantages of using this material include the following:
- It is environmentally friendly and fireproof, since it does not release harmful elements or compounds into the environment and is not subject to combustion.
- It is easy to apply - using a spray gun, roller or brush - on surfaces of any configuration and from a wide variety of materials.
- Since no special surface preparation is required before its application, its use reduces labor costs.
- Due to its use, in contrast to structures with traditional insulation, square meters of housing are saved.
- Its application practically does not burden the structure or the load on the foundation, since 1-2 mm of this insulation replaces a 50 mm layer of mineral wool.
- Thanks to the previously indicated physical and chemical characteristics, it provides a high degree of thermal insulation and energy saving of buildings, stable anti-corrosion protection of heat and gas pipelines and other structures.
- This type of insulation is durable - the service life is 15-40 years - due to its resistance to temperature changes (unlike fiber materials of stone or glass wool), exposure to UV radiation, and proper technology for transportation, storage, application and operation.
- It is universal because it can withstand temperatures from “−” 50 to “+” 250 degrees Celsius.
- To decorate the room, various finishing materials can be applied on top of the ceramic insulation - wallpaper, acrylic paint, etc.
As the main disadvantage, users indicate the high cost of liquid ceramic insulation, the price of which is about 300 rubles. per 1 liter and may vary depending on the conditions of its production, brand and modification.
In addition, there is also the so-called “human factor” - distrust of a new, unconventional type of insulation, uncertainty that such a thin layer can provide and maintain the necessary warmth in the house.
However, taking into account the unique technical and operational characteristics, the costs of manufacturers to create an innovative type of insulation, the possibility and ease of applying it yourself, the fairly high cost of insulation with traditional insulation, the price for comfort and coziness in a home/apartment or at work will not seem so high to you.
Scope of application of ceramic insulation
Where other insulation materials are powerless, ceramic thermal insulation will help.
Recently, ceramic thermal insulation has been used wherever possible, and a program for insulating facades is even supported at the state level. This insulation is suitable for:
- application to stone and concrete surfaces from the outside and inside;
- reducing heat loss from pipelines;
- protection of metal structures.
As you can see, liquid ceramic insulation is a universal product that is not applicable only to wood. The reason for this is the vapor barrier qualities of the material, and as you know, wood breathes and this process should not be disrupted.
In everyday life, this type of insulation is applied to internal walls; it can be used to cover a heating buffer tank (battery tank); even a bathtub covered with this insulation paint will retain heat longer. Also, if you use liquid ceramic insulation on the basement floor from the inside, you can solve three problems at once:
- insulation;
- waterproofing;
- vapor barrier.
In this case, the material is suitable as an auxiliary measure, since the main protection of the walls of the basement is located outside. This is a bitumen hydro-vapor barrier and extruded polystyrene foam as insulation. When ceramic insulation is used to reduce heat loss from communications or metal tanks, additional layers of thermal insulation will also not hurt.
Buying tips
The significant price of ceramic insulating compounds is the reason why you should be very careful when purchasing material in a store or on the construction market.
Instructions that allow you to avoid making mistakes and buy a high-quality heat insulator are given below:
- The first thing you should pay attention to is the density of the mixture. High-quality insulation materials are characterized by an indicator of no more than 0.6 kg per 1 liter of product. Thus, a standard ten-liter bucket should not weigh more than 7.5 kg. Otherwise, we can safely say that the thermal insulation properties of the paint will be low.
"Korund" is one of the most popular brands
- Looking at the container with the material “through the light”, you can see its delamination. Typically, the lighter fraction containing ceramic spheres ends up on top. So the thicker the top layer, the more effectively the paint mixture will retain heat.
- The third test is to determine the structure of the mixture itself. Take some paint and rub it between your fingers. Microgranules should be felt as small roughness, and their absence should be considered a reason to choose a different brand.
It is these micrograins that can be felt with your fingertips.
It is also worth paying attention to the color of the paint. The vast majority of brands of liquid ceramic insulation are produced in white, so a gray or yellowish tint is evidence of violations in the manufacturing technology. Naturally, this does not apply to compositions into which a color pigment has previously been introduced.
Surface application
Ceramic thermal paint is quite easily applied to surfaces made of a wide variety of materials.
So if you decide to do the painting insulation work yourself, you just need to follow some recommendations:
- The wall to be painted must be cleaned of dust and debris. We open up the gaps and cracks and fill them with repair compound.
- We clean concrete slabs from “cement laitance”.
- Immediately before painting, we treat the wall with a sandblasting machine, an abrasive wheel or a wire brush.
- Ferrous metal surfaces are dusted and degreased. Non-ferrous metals require preliminary removal of the gloss and application of a primer such as VL-023 or VL-02.
- Mix the ceramic composition immediately before applying it to the wall. As a rule, mixing is carried out manually.
Note! To work with large volumes, the use of construction mixers is allowed, and the rotation speed should not exceed 150-200 rpm. At a higher speed of movement of the nozzle, destruction of ceramic granules and a decrease in heat-saving characteristics is possible.
- Mixing time by hand is from 10 to 15 minutes, with a mixer - 3-8 minutes.
- Some formulations require adding water before starting work. The volume of liquid depends on the brand of material and the purpose of using the insulation. The required proportions are usually indicated on the packaging, and can also be found on the manufacturer’s website.
Applying the composition with a brush
Rules for applying liquid thermal insulation
Wall insulation
For insulating walls using liquid materials, insulation with ceramic components is more suitable. Liquid ceramic insulation with a water base is ideal for internal wall coverings, and for external facades the option with a varnish base is suitable. With this material you can easily insulate hard-to-reach places and do the work yourself.
Before starting work, you should prepare the surface. To do this, you need to remove all irregularities and, if necessary, plaster using a dry gypsum mixture. Afterwards you need to apply a primer. When the wall is completely prepared, you should start mixing liquid insulation. It should be mixed immediately before application and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Thermal paint is applied in several layers; a new layer can be formed after the previous one has completely dried. Also, the paint layer should be about 1 mm thick. The number of layers depends on the material and thickness of the walls. You can apply the product with a foam roller or spray, then there will be an even coating.
To insulate the walls externally, you need to not only level the surface, but also get rid of mold and mildew, and then treat it with a special antiseptic. After this, the wall is primed. When the primer has dried, you can begin thermal insulation. The weather during work should be warm; in the presence of wind or rain, it is prohibited to apply thermal paint. The layer of applied paint should be no more than 1 mm. It is recommended to use a brush or spray. Each layer takes about 24 hours to dry. Complete drying of the finishing layer depends on the number of layers applied.
Insulation of floors
To reduce heat loss, it is possible to insulate floors using liquid thermal insulation; this option goes well with a heated floor system. But this method can be used in rooms where there is no floor heating.
Before starting work, you should clean off dust and dirt and remove all uneven surfaces. Then a primer in the form of acrylic impregnation is applied. After it has completely dried, you can apply thermal paint. It is best to use a spray bottle here. It should be kept at a distance of 50 cm from the floor, and should be worked at one angle. Then the paint will be evenly distributed over the entire floor area.
Pipe insulation
Liquid thermal insulation is used for insulation of pipelines in the gas and oil industries, as well as for water supply pipes. This coating reduces heat loss and also provides protection from chemical and mechanical stress. For this purpose, a special line of thermal paints designed for pipes is produced.
Before starting work, remove dirt and rust, then prime the pipe. After the primer has completely dried, you can begin the insulation process. Ceramic thermal paint is applied using a brush or a special sprayer. It is necessary to apply about 5 layers, each layer dries in about 4-5 hours. After this, the pipe is coated with special enamel.
Liquid thermal insulator TC Ceramic: specifics
Products of this brand are sold in the form of a suspension
containing acrylic polymer materials, artificial rubber and various pigments. Additionally, the composition includes ceramic microcavities and silicone spheres. The material is applied to various types of surfaces:
- brickwork;
- glass;
- plastic;
- metal;
- tree, etc.
The application method is similar to the method of treating surfaces with paint - use a roller, brush or spray.
According to the manufacturer, when treating external surfaces, the coating retains its service properties for 10 years, while when developing a layer of thermal insulation in the middle of the room, this period becomes 2.5 times longer.
The material can be used to thermally insulate both horizontal surfaces (floor, ceiling) and vertical surfaces (roof, walls, facade, etc.). The material will protect against temperature fluctuations, ultraviolet rays and moisture.
Liquid polystyrene foam
Liquid polystyrene foam has a lot of names: they are assigned by the direct manufacturers. The most common names for this material are “unipol”, “mettemplast” and “penoizol”.
Liquid foam composition:
- Urea-formaldehyde resin (often contained in cold-curing foams).
- Foaming agent.
- Orthophosphoric acid.
- Water.
The percentage of resin affects the degree of density of the insulation. To mix the ingredients, a special gas-liquid apparatus powered by compressed air is used. As a result, all components of the composition are brought to the state of voluminous saturated foam.
Penoizol is applied by spraying with a special spray bottle. As a result, it is possible to achieve dense filling of cracks and cracks in the wall. The finished coating is characterized by tightness and the absence of seams. The foam is white with a slight yellow tint. The initially thin layer, after installation, rapidly expands in all directions, filling the niches. Quite often, the internal voids of wooden frames or the space between the rafters are filled in this way.
RE-THERM products: what they are and how they work
To create a good layer of thermal insulation, products from the RE-THERM company are suitable. The manufacturer speaks of the material’s ability to protect surfaces of various types , also with non-traditional relief solutions. Thermal insulation
RE-THERM is fireproof, does not contain chemically hazardous substances, is considered a fully environmentally friendly material, but what is very important is that it exhibits the ability to have low thermal conductivity.
Heat insulators are available for purchase in the form of a suspension in several types to solve various types of problems:
- Standard;
- Fire retardant;
- Inhibitor;
- Ruber;
- Antifreeze;
- Vertical.
The standard is suitable for different types of surfaces; it is used for wall insulation outside and inside the house. The fire retardant was developed for rooms and structures with a risk of fire; it differs in fire resistance. The inhibitor is designated by the manufacturer as an insulating material for metal surfaces that prevents rust.
In transport, and also in systems with a risk of vibration, it is reasonable to use a heat insulator in liquid form of the Ruber brand with very high levels of flexibility. But for thermal insulation of surfaces exposed to low temperatures, thermal insulation
Antifreeze that can withstand temperatures up to? 40 degrees.
To insulate vertical surfaces while preventing material from dripping, the manufacturer has developed a specialized version of the thermal insulation with very high viscosity called Vertical.
Types of insulation with liquid thermal insulation materials
Today there are 3 types of liquid insulation on sale, which are applicable for insulating walls inside and outside the room, as well as for insulating ventilation pipes, roofs, and attics.
- The first group contains ceramics. Before application, the liquid looks like acrylic white paint.
- The second group is liquid polystyrene foam or penoizol. Polymer composition applied using equipment.
- The third group is ecowool. The composition contains natural fibers. After application to the surface, ecowool has good technical characteristics.
Before applying the insulation, the surface is prepared: dust, dirt are removed, and cracks are reinforced. One of the insulation materials can get into the gap, thereby stopping the destruction. And also sealing joints.
A clean, prepared surface is the key to good adhesion to the heat insulator and a long service life.
Ceramic insulation
Liquid heat insulator based on ceramic filler is one of the most popular for insulating walls of a room and beyond. It has adhesion to brick, concrete, wood, plastic, and metal surfaces. Does not lose technical characteristics.
The heat insulator is used on plastic and drywall to increase their strength. It is safe for health and fireproof. After insulation, finishing materials are used.
Popular manufacturers
Insulation manufacturers:
- TS Ceramic. Produces insulation with the following elements:
- water base;
- synthetic rubber;
- acrylic polymers;
- additional pigments;
- empty silicone beads;
- ceramic filler.
The suspension is applied to glass, metal surfaces, and plastic. Application method: brush (like paint), roller. If the insulation remains open, it retains its properties for 10 years. Indoors, the material has a shelf life of up to 25 years. They insulate floors, walls, attics, and roofs. There is protection from moisture.
- Alfatek. It contains polymers and foam glass. Does not burn, safe for health. Temperature range -60 +260 0С. Shelf life: 20 years.
- Teplomet. Adhesion to surface. Waterproofing properties. Thermal insulation does not require coating; it can be left open. In this case, the wall looks like it is covered with paint.
- RE-THERM. Apply it to the surface, whether it is loose or smooth. Fireproof. It is applied indoors.
There are also manufacturers of this heat insulator, which has the same properties. It is applied in the same way, that is, with a roller or brush.
Advantages and disadvantages
Since insulation material has recently appeared on the market, reviews about it are different. Among the advantages are:
- does not burn;
- harmless to the body;
- ease of application;
- has adhesion to various surfaces;
- the thinness of the layer does not take away centimeters of housing;
- the weight does not put a load on the foundation;
- indicators of thermal insulation, waterproofing;
- anti-corrosion protection;
- long shelf life;
- large temperature range;
- Finish coatings are installed on the thermal insulation.
Flaws:
The downside is the high cost and lack of confidence in the new product, which has many advantages and a minimum of disadvantages.
Adviсe
- The surface must be cleaned of dust, debris and dirt. All cracks are covered with reinforcing tape and plastered.
- If the base is metal, there should be no rust on it.
- The suspension is diluted before application.
- The thickness of the applied layer is not less than 3 mm. To do this, the liquid is applied in stages. Each layer is 1 mm, with a time period of 24 hours.
- When insulating a house from the outside, siding or other finishing is required for complete insulation.
Expanded polystyrene insulation
Liquid polystyrene foam is foam (penoizol).
It hardens when opened within 2-3 hours. Because of the liquid, it fills cracks in the walls. The material does not expand like polyurethane foam, so it is used for gluing panels, replacing fasteners.
Liquid foam is sold in cylinders. If it is necessary to use it for insulation of walls and other structures, equipment is used.
Scope of application:
- Insulation of floors, attics, attic floors - horizontal planes.
- Suitable for insulating walls made of brick and concrete, as well as wooden floors.
- Filling voids between rafters, insulating inclined roof planes.
- Insulation of underground space, basements, garages.
Insulation is used in the cracks of wooden windows and other narrow spaces.
Often this heat insulator is used as glue.
Manufacturers
Penoizol is produced in certain proportions by both individuals and construction companies.
For production you need: foaming agent, ABSA acid grade A, resin, equipment. The components are easy to purchase from factories. Equipment for installing foam is expensive. One of them is “Leader 20”. All components of the insulation are mixed in it, and the material is also used to apply the material to the surface.
The equipment package includes a housing. It contains pumps, pressure gauges, and an electronic control unit.
Advantages and disadvantages
Liquid foam has advantages:
- Thermal insulation indicators. 10 cm of suspension is equal to 30 cm of ordinary foam.
- The temperature range at which the insulation does not lose its technical characteristics is -70 +200 0C.
- It is possible to use a small amount of insulation. These are small cylinders that are sold in hardware stores.
- The only insulation used to fill small voids and cracks.
- Liquid insulation is used as an adhesive and as a heat insulator. It acts as a replacement for fasteners.
- The insulation is resistant to mechanical stress, and also does not harbor rodents or insects.
- Does not rot or become moldy.
- Does not burn. Good adhesion.
- The lifespan of the installed insulation on the surface is 78 years.
- It is soundproofed.
Flaws:
- Can absorb water. To solve this problem, it is necessary to add additional elements to the composition.
- Unpleasant odor during installation.
When the foam hardens, the smell disappears.
Adviсe
To use penoizol as insulation for walls, basements, attics, and roofs, you must call a team of craftsmen. They have equipment that applies the material to the surface.
For small installation work, small cylinders are used. They work with them like polyurethane foam without any special skills.
Ecowool
The insulation consists of 80% recycled cellulose and 20% minerals, boric acid. Wood fibers, waste paper, and cardboard are used for insulation.
The material keeps the room warm. The applied composition has a smooth surface without “cold bridges”. Installation is carried out using equipment. Used for insulation of floors, places where condensation appears from high humidity.
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of ecowool:
- Greenfiber. The first place in the production of material. The use of new technologies and equipment results in the production of high quality insulation. It has thermal insulation, noise absorption, and water-repellent properties.
- Ecovilla. A manufacturer whose products are known all over the world as high-quality materials with a long shelf life and good technical performance.
- Termex. All manufactured products are environmentally friendly and have a long service life.
In addition to imported companies, there are also domestic ones:
- Ecovata Extra LLC. The heat insulator is used for insulation of residential premises and industrial buildings.
- "Equator". The cotton wool production process is automated. New European equipment is used for this. The material differs from others in its high technical performance.
Ecowool is suitable for insulating buildings due to its environmental friendliness.
Advantages and disadvantages
Positive aspects of the material:
- sound insulation indicators;
- 28-65 kg of cotton wool is needed per 1 m3. This is relatively little compared to other formulations;
- health safety;
- There are no seams or cracks during installation.
There are also disadvantages:
- installation requires equipment and a team of craftsmen;
- need a frame;
- has shrinkage;
- insulation can smolder when heated.
Adviсe
Before calling a team of craftsmen, you need to check the company for negative and positive reviews. Since many of them use low-quality compounds that can lose their characteristics in the shortest possible time.
When buying insulation yourself, you need to make sure that the packaging is intact and transparent. There should be no sand at the bottom.
Thermal insulation Teplomett - easy to apply and comfortable to use
Another worthy of attention insulating surface material according to today’s scheme is Teplomett products. Also, as in previous cases, the heat insulator is characterized by good thermal and moisture protection characteristics, durability, and the ability to interact with surfaces of different types
.
Thermal insulation
Teplomett is invulnerable to temperature fluctuations, damage from mechanical factors, and does not contain harmful substances.
Insulation with material does not take into account the use of an additional layer for protection due to its ability to not allow moisture to pass through. An added bonus is the multi-colored pigments included in the composition, which allow you to create a coating with a beautiful appearance. The material can be applied using one of the standard methods: brush, roller or spray.
Insulation of pipelines
Pipes insulated with liquid thermal insulation
Liquid thermal insulation can be used to equip gas pipelines, oil pipelines, hot and cold water supply lines, heating circuits, sewers, ventilation and air conditioning systems. In addition, pipes of refrigeration and freezing units are insulated in this way. As a result, a noticeable reduction in heat loss and protection of communications from aggressive mechanical and chemical influences is achieved. In this way, it is possible to insulate not only straight, but also sections with complex configurations (turns, branches, fittings, various fittings).
For these purposes, separate lines of ceramic heat-insulating paints for pipes are produced. The substance can be applied to metal, steel and cast iron substrates, even if scale and rust are present in places. The material contains acrylic polymers, empty glass-ceramic balls, corrosion inhibitors, anti-corrosion and auxiliary additives.
Operating procedure:
- Cleaning the pipe from rust and other contaminants. For these purposes, you can use both mechanical (sandpaper, metal brushes) and chemical agents (various rust converters).
- Padding. Use special compounds for metal surfaces.
- Application of insulation. The procedure is carried out using a brush or spray. The thickness of one layer is 0.5 mm (for ceramic paints) or 1 cm (for penoizol). The total number of layers is recommended in the amount of 4-5 pieces: they are applied at intervals of 4 hours.
- Final finishing. After waiting a day after the last installation, the insulated pipe is treated with a special metallized enamel with a mirror surface.
Liquid heat insulators for pipes are fire and environmentally safe.
Alfatek - liquid insulation for years
It is for many years to come that the manufacturer proposes to insulate surfaces with Alfatek liquid insulation. Just like its analogues, the material consists of many components, including foam glass and acrylic. Thermal insulation in this form is completely safe, does not contain harmful volatile compounds, is resistant to open flames, and does not lose its basic functionality at temperatures from −60 to +260 degrees Celsius.
According to the manufacturer, the service life of Alfatek liquid insulation is up to 20 years. It is used to protect communication systems, residential and industrial buildings from cold (walls, ceilings, roofs and floors are insulated), air conditioning systems, pipelines, etc.
Tips and recommendations when choosing liquid thermal insulation for walls
First, decide where to apply the heat paint. Most often, the manufacturer labels the jar with the product. Look carefully at what surface you will apply this product to.
Also take a closer look at the contents of the jar. It must be uniform, without plaques or any inclusions. It is better if the color is white, but beige and gray shades are possible.
Do not ignore the density of the product. Low values will give greater heat transfer. Also find out the service life and interaction with various environmental indicators.
Not every liquid thermal insulation has an easy application method. The tool should be easy to use. Give preference to trusted companies.
Video - Liquid thermal insulation Armor: do-it-yourself insulation of a balcony, loggia, walls, ceiling, floor
Thermal insulation Isollat - special insulation of a new generation
The material was developed in Yekaterinburg and has occupied a strong position in the market for more than 10 years. The manufacturer recommends using thermal insulation within the temperature range from −60 to +500 degrees Celsius, with the possibility of increasing the extreme mark to +600 degrees in critical situations. It is precisely this wide range of temperatures permissible for operation that distinguishes the insulation from its analogues.
The color of thermal insulation in the basic version is white; at the buyer’s request, color pigments of any shade can be added to the composition.
The composition includes hollow ceramic capsules with rarefied air, due to which it is possible to take the effectiveness of the material to a new level.
Thermal insulation is available in six options:
- Izollat-01 is suitable for insulating walls and roofs, both inside and outside, including in buildings with many years of service.
- Isollat-02 is the base material for insulating surfaces for use in temperatures ranging from −60 to +170 degrees.
- Isollat-03 - contains fire retardant additives that prevent ignition.
- Isollat-04 is the only one in the whole world capable of withstanding temperatures up to +500 degrees and up to +600 degrees at critical moments. Suitable as insulation for industrial equipment.
- Isollat-05 - suitable for insulating metal surfaces susceptible to corrosion. Can be used at temperatures up to +160 degrees with additional treatment with silicone varnish.
- Isollat-nano - used for insulation of external walls, has the ability to self-clean.
The latter option is rarely available on store shelves, as it is offered to the buyer on order.
Work technology
Sprayed insulation and thermal paint are applied to a clean, durable base without corrosion or areas of biological damage. Painting is carried out in the same way as with traditional compositions: priming, forming a layer-by-layer coating with intermediate drying of each. The manufacturer writes on the packaging about the intricacies of the work.
Insulation of walls using insulating foam occurs in the following order:
- installation of sheathing made of lumber, metal or plastic profiles;
- spraying a heat insulator onto the working surface across the entire width of the opening in the direction from bottom to top (it may be possible to repeat the procedure to increase the thickness of the coating);
- protection and decorative finishing of the formed layer.
The sheathing serves as a reinforcing material and a guide to the thickness of the insulation. After the foam has dried, the excess foam composition is cut off along the sheathing. This results in a smooth surface, which is easier to work with later at the finishing stage.
Foam insulation Source ytimg.com
Liquid insulation Corundum - performance characteristics
The production of ultra-thin insulation Corundum is carried out by NPO Fulleren LLC. In the domestic market, products under this brand are in particular demand, primarily due to the proliferation of dealership centers.
Thermal insulation suspension is suitable for insulating facades, roofs, walls, pipelines, tanks and other objects, systems and structures. The material is available in several versions:
- Classic - for finishing surfaces of any type with intended use in the temperature range from −60 to +200 degrees Celsius (a critical increase in temperature up to +260 degrees is possible).
- Anticorrosive - just like its analogues, it is used to insulate and protect surfaces from corrosion, and exhibits increased resistance to UV rays and chemicals.
- Winter - coating for finishing surfaces at sub-zero temperatures down to −20 degrees. The composition includes foam glass granules. Samples available for testing.
- Facade - insulation for finishing concrete external surfaces.
The cost of the material depends on the brand and purpose; the material is applied in the usual way: with a roller, brush or spray.
Liquid thermal insulation: where is it used and what properties does it have?
When you see liquid insulation, you get the impression that you have to deal with ordinary paint. In fact, the coating has significant differences from paint and a number of special properties and characteristics. Firstly, the material exhibits excellent adhesive properties, which allows it to contact any type of surface equally successfully.
Secondly, liquid ceramic thermal insulation material copes with protecting treated surfaces from mold, rust, condensation, and all this despite the fact that it can be applied to materials at high or, conversely, low temperatures. The heat insulator again gains resistance to corrosion, fungus and moisture due to its special composition and vacuum in the microcavities.
The use of liquid insulation is effective in any situation, regardless of the type of surface being treated. With equal success, the liquid ceramic layer can be applied:
- on the surface of wooden walls;
- on metal pipes;
- on metal-ceramic roofing;
- on concrete structures, etc.
In each of the options, the thermal insulation layer will not only retain heat in winter, guaranteeing coolness in summer, but will also prevent the formation of increased moisture on surfaces.
Today, many manufacturers are working on the development of liquid insulation materials, including those on the domestic market. There are several options of noteworthy brands available, in turn presented in various modifications to solve certain problems.
Akterm - operating principle and line of ultra-thin thermal insulation
The products are manufactured at a plant in the Moscow region and are positioned by the manufacturer as a material that can withstand operation in temperatures ranging from −60 to +250 degrees, and in the case of using a special brand - up to +600 degrees. The line of insulation includes the following modifications:
- Standard - for insulating base surfaces, including those made of concrete and metal, when operating in conditions from −60 to +260 degrees.
- Facade is a specially developed insulation material for thermal insulation of external walls made of concrete and wood.
- Nord - the versatility of the insulation lies in the possibility of application on surfaces at sub-zero temperatures down to −30 degrees.
- Anticorrosive is a special heat insulator for surfaces at risk of rust.
- Non-flammable - suitable for installing an ultra-thin heat-insulating layer that is resistant to fire.
- Anti-condensation - designed for insulation of surfaces with an increased level of condensation.
- Vulcan is a material for thermal insulation of objects whose operating temperature exceeds the norm and is equal to +600 degrees Celsius.
The listed brands of insulation in the form of a suspension are most widely used on the Russian market. In addition to them, European-made materials are also available, the cost of which is higher due to transport costs and brand name, but not due to any special performance characteristics.
Liquid thermal insulation: advantages
Does not create loads on load-bearing structures of buildings. Environmentally safe. Does not contain harmful substances. It has good resistance to both alkalis and acids. Does not support combustion.
The most popular brands of “insulating paint”
Today, the most popular “insulating paints” in Russia are the following brands:
- Akterm;
- Astratek;
- Armor;
- Corundum;
- RE-THERM;
- Thermomet;
- Termolat and others.
Liquid insulation is packaged in plastic containers with a volume of 10 and 20 liters. The can has a recognizable company and brand logo.
Each company produces a whole line of liquid ceramic insulation, designed for different types of surfaces, different temperature conditions and having different technical and operational characteristics - as indicated on the surface of the container.
An article dedicated to the cheapest types of insulation can be found here:
What is the best method for applying liquid thermal insulation materials?
Liquid insulation is applied using equipment in several layers.
Each applied layer must dry and harden. Before application, prepare the surface, freeing it from dust and dirt. All cracks are reinforced and plastered.
After the material has dried, the edges are cut off (if required), and the surface is coated with a primer.
Liquid types of insulation have many advantages and a minimum of disadvantages. To use them, you need equipment and calling specialists, which is expensive. But, it will have a long service life and good performance.
Which insulation to choose
To select insulation you need to be guided by the following criteria:
- Price. Even when choosing a budget option, you need to pay attention to the manufacturer.
- Compare the technical characteristics and indicators of the room (humidity, temperature conditions).
- Pay attention to sound insulation, combustion, and waterproofing indicators.
In most cases, liquid insulation is used both for internal work and for external wall insulation.
For interior work
To select indoor insulation, it is necessary to take into account the disadvantages of internal work:
- Many of the insulation materials used take up usable space.
- To install the material from the room, it is necessary to remove all the furniture, as well as clear the walls of paintings and mirrors.
- To install insulation, measures such as waterproofing and improving the ventilation system are necessary.
All installation rules must be followed, otherwise problems may arise, such as condensation collection, mold, or peeling of insulating material.
When choosing insulation, it is also necessary to carry out calculations:
- The thickness of the walls in the room will indicate how thick the insulation is needed.
- The material from which the walls of the building are made. The type of insulation and waterproofing used depends on this.
- Minimum room temperature.
For outdoor use
Thermal insulation materials used for external work have the following features:
- the thermal conductivity coefficient must be low;
- water absorption should be low;
- sound insulation indicators;
- fire resistance;
- resistance to various influences;
- durability;
- no shrinkage;
- mass of material.
An important factor is the method of installing the heat insulator.