Insulation Key Terms

Brush up on the insulation industry's terminology by learning important key terms

Insulation is an important aspect of any building, providing noise and thermal reinforcement. Using the proper insulation in an establishment, be it residential or commercial, is known to save money with respect to energy resources and create a more comfortable environment through uniform temperatures.

Learning popular key terms related to the insulation industry is advantageous for those involved in the trade, as well as those who are in need of insulation.

 

Cavity

Insulation batts are properly positioned in the empty spaces, or cavities, which exist between the studs and joints of a structure. It is believed that such insulation can lower one's heating bills, lower the wear and tear of a structure's boiler and reduce some effects of global warming.
Try: Cavity-Insulation-Grants.com discusses what cavities are, as well as the benefits and options with respect to cavity insulation.

R-values

R-values measure an insulation material's transfer of heat. When the R-values are higher, it means the material has an increased ability to resist the flow of heat as it travels through the insulating material.
Try: The resistance of heat flow—or the R-value—of insulation is discussed in detail at EnergySavers.gov.

Insulation density

The insulation density of a product has a direct effect on its insulating power and insulating capabilities for a building. The higher the insulation density, the greater insulating power and R-value the material will have.
Try: The densities of various insulation materials, including fiberglass insulation and mineral wool insulation, are discussed at DoItYourself.com.

Apparent thermal conductivity

Insulation materials are assigned values that clarify the materials' transmission of heat. This is known as the apparent thermal conductivity of the insulation.
Try: The measurement of a material's apparent thermal conductivity is explored at RDServices.com.

Octave band

A frequency range, with respect to sound, is assigned to insulation materials. The highest frequency assigned to the band is double what the lowest frequency of the band is calculated to be.
Try: An analysis of octave bands, including calculations for determining a material's octave bands, is explored at Menlh.Go.Id.

Vapor retarder

Insulation materials are aided in their control of moisture through vapor retarders. Vapor retarders help to decrease the moisture that passes through insulation materials and may collect on the inside of a building's walls, ceilings and floors.
Try: Vapor retarders, their location and their capabilities are discussed at RehabAdvisor. Meanwhile, frequently asked questions with respect to vapor retarders including "what is a vapor retarder?" and "what is the purpose of a vapor retarder?" is explored at Insulate.org.

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