Insulating Your New Build Home
Common issues we see on site inspections & air tests relating to Foiled Rigid foam insulation products.
Are you in the process of building or renovating? As you focus on the myriad of choices & finishes ahead of you, it’s essential to address a common issue in new builds – leaky foil board roof insulation.
It’s critical for roof insulation that QUALITY of FITTING over QUANTITY of insulation is adhered to.
POORLY FITTED insulation can lead to significant problems, including drastically increased heat/energy loss, increased utility bills, and compromising the overall integrity of your home.
Below are some key points to consider before choosing and installing an insulation product.
1. Identify and Seal the Gaps: A thorough inspection of your foil board roof insulation is critical. Look for any gaps or tears that could allow air infiltration. Ensure all joints and seams are tightly sealed using an appropriate adhesive or foil tape.
Even a gap or 2 or 3mm can leak enough air to cause significant energy loss.
- Just because it’s foamed or foil taped at the joints doesn’t mean it’s airtight to all other structures around it. Communicate with all trades that any holes punctured in the insulation must be sealed. I’m talking to all the sparks out there !
- Just because it’s fitted by a joiner doesn’t mean it’s airtight
- Just because it’s hidden behind plasterboard or in an attic space doesn’t mean you can afford to not pay it close attention.
2. Invest in airtight /breathable Vapor control layers: Moisture is not a friend of insulation. Increased moisture and water vapour can lead to reduced thermal efficiency and potential damage by interstitial condensation or mould growth. Consider investing in a reliable vapor barrier that can protect your insulation from condensation and increase its lifespan. These barriers often come in the form of specialized membranes or even paint on products. #passivepurple
Remember – An Airtight membrane is NOT a breather membrane. Breather membrane on the OUTSIDE to control water and Airtight membrane on the WARM SIDE of the insulation to control AIR.
3. Conduct Air Pressure Tests:
Engage professionals to conduct air pressure tests, such as blower door tests, to identify air leakage points within your new build. These tests help pinpoint hidden leaks in your roof insulation, allowing you to take corrective measures promptly.
Do it early! Once the building is weathertight and able to hold the air pressure. Don’t leave it to the day before your final building control inspection when nothing can be done about the hidden air leaks.
4. Continuous Insulation:
Opt for continuous insulation boards or batts. This method eliminates problematic gaps that may allow air infiltration, providing a more airtight solution for your new build’s roof. Consider the bridging of timber, concrete pad stones and steel beams.
#gapotape
Make a plan on an airtight roof insulation solution now. Plan it early, make it easy to fit and communicate your plans effectively to all involved onsite. You’ll create a more energy-efficient, comfortable, and long-lasting home. Don’t settle for less than great building practise when it comes to insulation. It costs a lot of money to buy so insist on it being installed correctly.
