subject: Retrofit insulation- a smart investment [print this page] Retrofit insulation- a smart investment Retrofit insulation- a smart investment
Home improvement solutions are in much demand now-a-days. These solutions include Insulation, weatherization, fire-proofing and many more techniques. In comparatively new structures, insulation is installed during the construction itself. Though, it is ideal to integrate insulation in the house while it is being erected, it can be fitted later as well. This is known as retro-fit insulation.
Installing retro-fit insulation depends on a number of variables. The local climate plays the most significant role. The construction of the house, the lifestyle of the family as well as the frequency of using the heating and the cooling systems and other such attributes play a major role as well.
Apart from this, an energy audit is a mus before investing in retrofit insulation. This is necessary so that you can identify the faulty spots that result in the leakage of heat. Moreover, an energy audit also helps you to identify the degree of insulation required to optimize the efficiency of your house to the maximum.
Thermal retrofit insulation can be done using a variety of materials and methods. A material can be chosen depending on its R- value, which represents the degree of insulation that a given material can provide. Materials with high R-value can provide better insulation and are therefore required in lesser amount and thickness. However, those materials with a lower R-value can also be used to insulate areas that do not require much insulation.
Retrofit insulation generally uses loose-fill or spray-on materials. There are a number of other materials as well that are ideal for this type of insulation. Those that are ideal for retrofit insulation include cellulose and fiberglass among others. However, fiberglass insulation forms for the most commonly used option of them all.
One of the main the reasons for the popularity of fiberglass insulation is that it is very convenient to install. Since it comes in batts and rolls, it can easily be cut out to fit into odd-shaped areas as well. The constituent material in fiberglass insulation is inorganic, as a result there is no fire hazard involved either. The most significant aspect of fiberglass insulation is that it maintains its R-value over a long time and is durable.
Apart from thermal insulation, sound insulation is also widely used as well. Sound- proof material is used to insulate the house against any outside noise. Sound insulation is more specifically useful for those with houses located on or near highways and busy roads.
