Methods of Installing Thermal Insulation in Buildings

Fiberglass Insulation

• Fiberglass insulation with a paper or foil backing is one of the most common flexible commercial insulation types. It usually comes in big rolls. Sometimes the rolls have pre-measured strips for a standard house wall, but more often the installer will have to cut the pieces to fit the wall or ceiling space. The backing has a folded edge that can be tacked or stapled to the inner edge of a pair of 2-inch-by-4-four-inch boards, such as might be used for wall studs or ceiling joists. Because fiberglass can be irritating to skin or mucous membranes gloves, long sleeves and a mask should be worn during installation.

Rigid Insulation

• Rigid insulation comes in large sheets and is made from a variety of materials. When purchasing rigid insulation, it is a good idea to check on how flammable the substance may be. Some types of rigid insulation are less flame retardant than others, and may need to be installed in such a way that there is a barrier between the insulation board and any heat source. Usually, rigid insulation is tacked on the outside of framing studs before the siding is added to the exterior of a building.

Blown insulation

• Fiberglass, shredded newspaper or other fluffy materials can be blown into wall cavities of older homes creating a retro-fit insulation. This is usually done by a contractor who has the equipment for the operation.

Straw Bales

• Straw bales have been touted as being excellent insulation by alternative builders. Installation is usually part of the building process, using tightly baled square or rectangular bales to construct load-bearing walls. The advantage is a thick layer of insulation that is slow to burn because the tightly packed straw will smoulder instead of bursing into flame. The disadvantages are that it is not easy to use as a retrofit, and it must be kept dry or it will develop a mold problem.

Bubble Wrap Insulation

• Sheets of bubble wrap insulation can be installed in much the same way fiberglass insulation is installed. It comes in rolls with tabs on the edges that can be stapled or stack to studs or joists. It has the advantage of being much less irritating to skin or mucous membranes, but has the disadvantage of being plastic and therefore somewhat flammable.

Egg Carton insulation

• Press paper egg cartons can be glued to an inner wall to act as insulation. Although it can add some R value, it is more valuable as a means to cut down echo in a room and keep sound from traveling through walls.