Sheet insulation materials. Types of insulation for the walls of the house from the inside: materials for insulation and their characteristics. Made from inorganic materials

Saving heat results in financial savings. It is unwise to waste heat and heat the street while modern technologies allow you to take care of saving heat resources already at the stage of construction and repair.
The main part of the responsibility for preserving heat lies with those parts of the building that are most in contact with the environment, participating in heat exchange with it.
These are the walls, roof and floor of the building. It is through them that the heat leaves the room, and the cold gets inside. The use of energy-saving materials allows not only to minimize heat losses, but also to reduce the thickness of walls, reduce the time of their construction, and reduce the total cost of construction.
Thermal insulation materials and products have an important impact on quality, cost, and most importantly, on the cost of operating buildings and structures.

Their use contributes to the creation of comfortable conditions in the premises, protects parts of the building from temperature fluctuations and extends the service life of building structures.
Modern trend determining the quality of heaters by measuring the level of their thermal resistance gradually moved on to determining which types of radiation they are able to protect.
In addition, there is a division of thermal insulation materials according to their intended purpose. Their shape and appearance may be different. There are rigid piece insulation (bricks, slabs, cylinders, segments), flexible (mats, bundles, cords) and bulk (vermiculite, cotton wool, perlite sand).

The structure of heaters can be fibrous (fiberglass, mineral wool materials), cellular (foam glass, cellular concrete), granular (vermiculite, perlite).
The substances included in the composition also determine the type of specific thermal insulation. According to the type of their main raw materials, traditional thermal insulation materials are divided into organic (natural substances are used as raw materials for their manufacture), inorganic (the basis is mineral raw materials) and materials made from artificial plastics.
Thus, each of the heaters existing today can be classified according to several criteria at once.
No comparison of thermal insulation materials is possible without determining which element is more suitable for which coating.

When deciding to insulate the floor, you need to know that such a solution will ensure a constant temperature in the house.
Comparing the characteristics of heat-insulating materials, it is possible to select for this purpose the coating that will withstand the constant pressure exerted on it.
Good compression performance is important. One of the requirements for the material is to retain its insulating properties, even if moisture penetrates inside, and the coating is subjected to mechanical stress.
Expanded clay is often used for insulation, if it is possible to fill it up when pouring a concrete floor.
If your house has a basement, then to insulate the floor, you need to fix the insulation from the basement or cellar. For this, expanded polystyrene is used.

For walls, the classification of thermal insulation materials is somewhat different, it all depends on the place of application - inside or outside the room.
To insulate the house from the outside, mineral basalt wool is ideal, which is distinguished by its durability, lack of deformation. Also, it does not thicken and does not become thinner during prolonged use.
From the inside, the walls are insulated, depending on the permissible insulation layer, sometimes planning features do not allow making it large.
The most popular way is foam or mineral wool, but these are also the thickest options. More modern - ceramic-based paint, a thinner layer is required, and it is easier to comply with the tightness conditions. True, the choice of material is complicated by the fact that each option has its own dew point, and if the place that you are trying to cover exceeds the permissible value, then your isolation will not work.
For insulation of the ceiling, mineral wool is considered an irreplaceable leader, since it is easiest to put it in the right quantities in the frame rafter system or interfloor ceilings, and during operation in such places it is almost not threatened (which could reduce the quality of insulation).
If you sacrifice the convenience of installation and the cheapness of mineral wool, then slag or sawdust with clay could become the best means to preserve heat, but the volume and hassle of work, and the high price of the material still do not make them popular.
One name "mineral wool" combines several types of insulation at once: stone, glass and slag wool.
Mineral wool is obtained by processing rock melts or metallurgical slags. Synthetic binders are added to the resulting glassy fiber. Possesses good heat and sound insulation characteristics; when wet, these qualities of mineral wool are significantly reduced. This insulation is not flammable.

Characteristics of mineral wool
Thermal conductivity, W / (m * K): 0.039-0.054
Flammability group: NG, G1, G2
Resistance to deformation: medium
Water and bio-resistance: low
Destruction temperature, ° С: 350
Density, kg / cubic meter m: 75-350
Service life, years: 20-30

Stone wool

Stone wool is a fibrous insulation material produced in the form of slabs, rolls.
Stone wool is characterized by a low level of thermal conductivity. Its production is a process of melting metallurgical slag, different types rocks. Moreover, the highest quality product is made from gabbro-basalt rocks.

Stone wool belongs to the class of non-combustible (NG) materials, which makes it possible to use it at various production facilities, as well as in private construction in conditions of elevated temperatures - up to 1000 ° C.
Fire resistance is complemented by moisture resistance. Stone wool, being a hydrophobic material, does not absorb moisture; on the contrary, it is water-repellent.
Thermal insulation, while remaining dry, does not lose its performance properties over time. These two properties (incombustibility and hydrophobicity) make it possible to use cotton wool for insulating premises with high temperature and humidity conditions, such as baths, saunas, and boiler rooms.
Strength in the case of stone wool is not directly dependent on density. Cotton wool, being a fairly soft material, has a known level of strength. Compressive strength at 10% deformation is in the range 5–80 kPa.
The structural stability of cotton wool is due to the special vertical and chaotic arrangement of the fibers.
Stone wool is an anti-corrosion material. Contacting with metals and concrete, it does not initiate chemical reactions. Biological resistance guarantees the material's immunity to the effects of fungi and mold, insects and rodents.
Basalt is the main raw material for the production stone wool... Basalt raw materials are processed with formaldehyde resins, which gives it the required level of strength.
Modern production technologies make it possible to completely eliminate the content of phenols from the material even at the stage of its production.
The product that reaches the end consumer is an environmentally friendly heat-insulating material that can be used to insulate building facades, roofs and floors of industrial and residential premises, as well as premises with extreme temperature and humidity conditions.
Rock wool from rocks is the choice for long-term and high-quality thermal insulation.

Glass wool

Fiberglass is a fibrous thermal insulation material made from molten glass.
Insulation based on it is available in two forms: hard plates and soft roll mats.

The finished product is characterized by a high level of strength and elasticity. Safe recycled formaldehyde resins also serve as a binder for glass fibers.
Not all the performance properties of fiberglass insulation are close to those of stone wool. The plasticity of the material facilitates the process of working with it, allowing the insulation to be compressed up to 4 times during installation.
During operation, fiberglass insulation is capable of sagging and slightly changing its original shape.
Glass fiber is hygroscopic, i.e. is able to accumulate moisture, accumulating it from the air (especially wet and cold).
Taking into account these properties of the material, it is often covered with a special waterproof film or foil, thus compensating for the moisture absorption property.

Glass wool is characterized by chemical and biological resistance.
The maximum temperature for using fiberglass insulation is limited to 650 ° C.
Glass wool is an excellent soundproofing material. The space of the fiberglass insulation absorbs sound waves well, thanks to which it is successfully used not only as a heat insulator, but also as a sound insulator.
Glass wool is used where it will not experience mechanical stress. As a rule, these are building facades, roofing spaces, space under floors. Often, its use implies the use of additional external protective layers, such as fiberglass or roofing felt.
Ventilated facade systems are usually equipped with glass and stone wool.
Glass wool in the form of separate fractions of glass fiber is used to insulate hard-to-reach elements of building structures by blowing.

Styrofoam

Polyfoam is a solid slab material used to insulate walls, ceilings, floors and roofs of buildings. It is used both for external insulation of buildings, and for internal. It is based on expanded polystyrene foam granules.
It is made in the form of slabs up to 2 m long, up to 1 m wide. Thickness - from 2 to 50 cm. All parameters may vary, therefore foam insulation is selected individually based on specific needs.
In everyday life, the word "foam" refers to all synthetic cellular plastics with low density, which have a large number of non-communicating cavities.

Depending on the characteristics of the manufacturing process, one of two main types of foam can be obtained from the raw materials:
porous plastic (a porous substance, in the structure of which there are cavities communicating with each other). In turn, porous plastics can be different: polyurethane foam, polyvinyl chloride foam, polystyrene foam and mipora;
the foam itself (the substance formed as a result of foaming of the feedstock. The contents of the isolated granules of the material do not come into contact with neighboring cells and the environment).
Expanded polystyrene is a material of the class of plastics, characterized by a cellular structure. Differs in high water and biological resistance, low specific gravity.
A characteristic feature of expanded polystyrene is low fire resistance, therefore it is usually used at temperatures not exceeding 150 ° C. Combustion of expanded polystyrene is accompanied by the release of a large amount of smoke and toxic substances.
To prevent such consequences, fire retardants are added to this type of insulation during production. Such expanded polystyrene is called self-extinguishing and the letter "C" is added to its name at the end.
Soundproofing qualities of polystyrene foam are low.

Characteristics of expanded polystyrene
Thermal conductivity, W / (m * K): 0.04
Flammability group: G3, G4
Resistance to deformation: high
Water and bio-resistance: high
Destruction temperature, ° С: 160
Density, kg / cu. m: 10-100
Service life, years: 20-50

The production of foam boards is carried out by thermal bonding and pressing of expanded polystyrene granules. Thanks to their granular structure, foam boards are composed of more than 95% air, which makes them a unique thermal insulation material.
To ensure the level of thermal conductivity possessed by a 30 mm foam layer, it is necessary to erect a brick wall, which should be almost 15 times thicker. And in the case of a reinforced concrete structure, this level rises up to 35 times!

The operational properties of foam make it a fairly popular material in the thermal insulation market:
Polyfoam has a high level of strength to mechanical stress. This level is significantly higher than that of mineral wool;
Polyfoam is a moisture resistant material. It practically does not absorb water, which makes it possible to use it as a basement insulation for buildings in direct contact with the ground;
With foam insulation, the building retains the ability to air exchange. At the same time, the level of windproofness is not reduced;
The ecological purity of the material is due to the absence of harmful impurities in it. It contains only two chemical compounds: carbon and hydrogen;
Possessing sound-insulating properties, foam can be used for the needs of insulation and sound insulation at the same time;
The service life of foam insulation is limited only by the service life of the building. The resistance to corrosion is due to the moisture resistance of the material. During the operation of the foam, there is no change in its dimensions: shrinkage, displacement.
The main parameter of foam, which determines the place of application and the specifics of installation, is its density. It depends on where you can use a specific type of foam insulation. So, foam crumbs are used for bulk work, for insulating floors, the space between floors, while a rigid foam sheet is used to insulate the foundation of a building.

Spray polyurethane foam

Spray Polyurethane Foam is a spray applied polyurethane foam. This insulation contains polyester polyol, polyisocyanate and various additives.
The technology of its application involves spraying with a supply pump or mixing the components directly on the insulated surfaces.

The adhesion properties of sprayed polyurethane foam allow it to be applied to horizontal and vertical surfaces. At the same time, it is securely fixed on a variety of bases: concrete, gas silicate blocks, plaster, metal, roofing material. Excellent characteristics of adhesion and moisture resistance determine the widespread use of this heat insulator.
Sprayed polyurethane foam is successfully used for insulation of external and interior walls, pitched and flat roofs, basements, basements and foundations of buildings, insulation of joints between parts of various building structures.
The method of applying the material by uniform spraying ensures that there are no joints and gaps between the areas of the coating. This increases the thermal insulation properties of the material, because the continuous coating layer does not have “cold points” that cause freezing of the structure.
Speaking about the shortcomings of this material, first of all, it should be noted that it is unsuitable for use in combination with wood.
Of course, the adhesion of the insulation allows it to be applied to wooden surfaces as well. But wood treated with sprayed polyurethane foam soon loses its physical and chemical qualities and is subject to decay.
This happens due to the cessation of air exchange between wood and the atmosphere. Moisture that gets into the layer of wood does not find a way out, and the material undergoes destruction.

Extruded polystyrene foam

Extruded polystyrene foam is one of the synthetic thermal insulation materials that belongs to the group of polystyrene foam.
It is made from expanded polystyrene raw materials by extrusion - molding of molten substance under pressure. In this case, a special agent is added to the feedstock, providing foaming and obtaining the required structure of the finished product.

The low level of thermal conductivity and water absorption ensures the resistance of the heat-insulating material to the effects of precipitation and temperature changes.
The structure of the material guarantees durability - something that is so lacking in conventional foam. The use of extruded polystyrene foam boards in those places of buildings where they will be exposed to mechanical stress is becoming available. The strength of the material determines its unpretentiousness to the installation process.
Insulation boards can be laid on a sand cushion. At the same time, they will not be deformed due to mechanical pressure, and also will not absorb moisture from the soil.
The very process of mounting plates of extruded polystyrene foam is simple and convenient. The material is easily cut into pieces of the required size, without crumbling and spraying. Mount expanded polystyrene plates carried out using adhesives and mounting dowels.

There are no complaints about the articles of chemical and biological resistance to extruded polystyrene foam. The material does not deteriorate under the influence of oil products, acids and alkalis, and the composition and structure make it unsuitable for the appearance and growth of fungi, as well as for eating by rodents and insects.
Among the disadvantages of this insulation material, it should be noted that it is not resistant to fire. At the same time, the combustion of polystyrene foam also releases toxic compounds.
This property of the material must be taken into account when providing additional protective insulation against fire. This heater is afraid not only of open fire, but also of direct sunlight. Under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, its upper layers can change their structure and collapse.
This factor must also be taken into account when installing thermal insulation from extruded polystyrene foam.

Ecowool

Ecowool (cellulose insulation) is a heat-insulating material made on the basis of paper and cardboard waste paper. Moreover, the properties of cotton wool are largely determined by the substances that make up its composition. So, Western manufacturers use, in addition to recycled cellulose, sawdust, cotton waste, hay.
Ecowool or cellulose wool, as a rule, consists of 81% processed cellulose, 12% antiseptic, and 7% flame retardants. The fibers of the material contain lignin, which, when moistened, imparts stickiness.
All components of this material are non-toxic, non-volatile, natural components harmless to humans.
Cellulose insulation does not support combustion, does not rot, and has good heat and sound insulation.
Ecowool is able to hold up to 20% moisture, which almost does not affect the thermal insulation properties. The material easily releases moisture into the environment and does not lose its properties when dried.
The cleanliness level of ecowool depends on the chemicals used to make the material. Phosphates and ammonium sulfates, widely used as fire retardants in the production of ecowool in the West, are characterized by an increased content of harmful substances.
In addition, the exploited insulation, which contains these compounds, loses its operational properties over time. In particular, the ability to resist combustion.
Domestic manufacturers use borax (borax) as a fire retardant, which guarantees the absence of unsafe chemical compounds and unpleasant odor ammonia, as well as the constancy of the practical properties of the material.
When choosing ecowool, special attention should be paid to what substances are used in it as fire retardants and antiseptics.

Ecowool characteristics
Thermal conductivity, W / (m * K): 0.036-0.041
Flammability group: G1, G2
Resistance to deformation: low
Water and bio-resistance: medium
Destruction temperature, ° С: 220
Density, kg / cu. m: 30-96
Service life, years: 30-50

There are 3 ways to use ecowool: dry, wet and wet glue.
They are implemented using special blowing equipment.
With small volumes and low complexity of work, insulation with ecowool can be carried out manually.

It is important to properly carry out work on blowing and compaction of ecowool, so that voids do not form in the future and the insulation does not sink.
The practical advantages that distinguish this thermal insulation material include:
ecological cleanliness;
high degree of adhesion;
possibility of application in hard-to-reach places;
the formation of a single seamless layer during application;
fire resistance (when used as a fire retardant borax);
moisture resistance (capable of absorbing a large amount of moisture, gradually releasing it into the surrounding space).
Thus, the room maintains an optimal microclimate with a humidity level of 40–45%;
long service life.
Among the disadvantages of ecowool should be called the complexity of manual application to the treated surfaces and the impossibility of organizing a "floating floor" due to the softness of the material.

Penoizol

Urea foam (penoizol) is a modern heat and sound insulating material.
In accordance with GOST 16381-77, by the type of feedstock, penoizol belongs to organic cellular urea foams; in terms of density - to the group of materials of extra low density (ONP) (density 8-28 kg / m3), and in terms of thermal conductivity - to the class of materials with low thermal conductivity (coefficient of thermal conductivity from 0.035-0.047 W / mChK).

Installations for producing penoizol (urea foam) by foaming polymer resins appeared in the world about 50 years ago. In Russia, the creation of a similar technology for the production of penoizol was carried out by employees of the VNII PAV.
Penoizol is distinguished by high resistance to fire, resistance to the action of microorganisms, lightness mechanical processing, low price. The air content in penoizol reaches 90%.
The climatic tests of penoizol showed that the time of reliable operation of penoizol as a non-bearing middle layer of three-layer structures of buildings is not limited. Tests of penoizol for fire resistance showed that penoizol belongs to the group of hardly combustible materials.

Penoizol production technology is very simple. It consists in foaming a polymer resin with compressed air in a gas-liquid plant (gas-liquid plant) using a foaming solution and subsequent curing of the resulting souffle-like mass with a curing catalyst that is part of this solution.
The solution of the foaming agent with the curing catalyst and the resin are fed into the corresponding pumps into the foam generator, under pressure in the foam generator foam is formed, which is fed to the mixer. A dosed amount of resin is also fed there. After passing through the mixer, the mass of penoizol enters the feed hose and the final formation of penoizol takes place in it.
Penoizol can be poured into molds (followed by cutting into sheets) or poured into technical cavities (walls, floors, etc.) directly at the construction site.

The main characteristics of penoizol:
Bulk density 8 ... 25
Thermal conductivity coefficient 0.031 ... 0.041
Compressive strength at 10% linear deformation, MPa 0.003 ... 0.025
Water absorption in 24 hours by volume,% no more than 18 ... 14
Sorption humidification by weight,% no more than 18
Operating temperature range, 0С - 60 ... + 90

Izokom

Isocom - Foil material (on one or both sides).
One of the promising areas of energy conservation is the use of reflective insulation isokom.
This material is a polyethylene foam sheet laminated on one or both sides with polished aluminum foil.
Izokom is a unique multi-layer heat, steam and sound insulating material.
The combination of a closed cell extruded polyethylene foam backing with trapped air and reflective, highly polished, pure aluminum foil gives the material exceptional heat-reflecting properties and maximum thermal resistance with minimal insulation thickness.
When correct installation Isocom is extremely effective as thermal insulation along the entire building contour.
Environmentally friendly material, no freon, does not deplete the ozone layer.
Does not contain glass or basalt fiber, other materials harmful to the human body.
Durability over 50 years without changing properties. Does not rot or deformed throughout its entire service life.
Simple and easy to install, saves working time. Does not require special fixtures and mechanisms for installation.
Reliable protection from moisture and steam.
Effectively prevents sound propagation in all types of buildings Possesses great elasticity and physical tensile and compressive strength.

Specifications:
Thermal conductivity according to GOST 7076-99: Thermal resistance (per 1 mm. Thickness):\u003e 0.031 m2 OS / W
Application temperature: from -60 C to + 80 C
Flammability group: G2 in accordance with GOST 30244-94
Smoke-generating ability: D2 in accordance with GOST 12.1.044-89
Flammability group: B1 according to GOST 30402-96
Water absorption in 24 hours by volume: 2%
Water vapor permeability: 0 mg / m h Pa

Isocom application:
As a heat shield behind radiators: Reduces heat loss on the outer wall, increases the efficiency of heating devices by 30% or more! Promotes an even distribution of heat energy inside the room.

Thermal insulation of walls along the perimeter of the building: Inside the building, isokom is laid, covering the massive thermal insulation, with a reflective surface inside the room and closed with wall panels while maintaining air gap not less than 15 mm. The massive insulation receives protection from the damaging effects of water vapor and greater heat resistance, plus the reflectivity of the isocom.
Thermal insulation of floors: When thermal insulation of floors using isocom, heat fluxes, reflected from the foil layer, do not enter the supporting structures under the floor, which avoids the formation of condensation.
For thermal insulation of the under-roof space, a double-sided isocoque is attached behind massive insulation on counter battens with a slight sag to provide an air gap of at least 15-20 mm.
The double-sided reflective surface, on the one hand, prevents the massive insulation under the roof from overheating, reflecting solar energy, on the other, it reflects the thermal energy inside the room, eliminating heat loss and making the climate in the house even.

In the modern construction market, you can find just a huge amount of various materials that can be used as insulation. Understand and do right choice in so many options, sometimes even professional builders are not able to. Next, we will consider various types of insulation and their characteristics so that everyone can purchase exactly the product that will create high-quality insulation of the building.

Basic material properties

These properties include:

The ability to retain heat or thermal conductivity. The lower the thermal conductivity of a material, the better it will be able to retain heat in your home. Materials with a minimum of this characteristic can minimize or completely eliminate heat loss.

Such a coefficient for different types of insulation may be different, but one pattern has been revealed: the lower the value of this indicator, the thinner the insulating layer you will need to create.

Resistant to moisture or moisture resistance. All the thermal insulation properties of any material are directly related to how strongly it is able to resist moisture, or to how quickly the material gets wet.

The ability to pass steam, or steam permeability. One of the main properties of any insulating material is the ability to remove excess moisture from the premises, therefore this indicator is extremely important.

Strength or the ability to maintain its size and shape. If the material during operation does not deform and does not shrink, this means that the insulation system will retain its characteristics for a long time and prevents the occurrence of cold bridges at the joints of the material.

Non-flammability. This property is of great importance for the fire safety of the building. Those who are worried about their safety and the safety of their home should give preference to non-combustible materials.

Ecological cleanliness. Laying a layer of insulation during the construction of houses presupposes the use of this material for the entire service life of the building, therefore it is very important for future residents that the selected insulation remains safe both at the time of laying it and throughout the entire service life.

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Classification of existing insulation materials

The entire huge range of modern materials of this type can be safely divided into four main groups:

1. Wadded. The role of such products can be glass wool known to everyone from ancient times or its more modern version of mineral wool, blocks and slabs of mineral wool type that exist today.
2. Leafy. The products of this kind are the foam plastic loved by children, extruded polystyrene foam, etc.
3. Foamy. Such materials are applied directly by spraying onto the very surface of a structure that needs insulation. Installation of these heaters is carried out using specialized equipment.
4. Rest. This group should include materials that are used quite rarely. These are such exotic options as insulation with cellulose, reed, linen, etc.

There is another classification, dividing heaters into groups based on the type of raw materials used for and manufacturing. These are groups such as:

• organic;
• inorganic;
• mixed.

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Cotton wool as insulation

Glass wool and mineral wool, very similar in their fiber structure, are widely used in the construction of residential and industrial facilities, in the shipbuilding industry. They are also used as heat and noise insulation, as well as a layer against the spread of fire. The benefits include:

• excellent vapor permeability, allowing you to absorb excess moisture;
• dielectric characteristics;
• low thermal conductivity;
• increased fire resistance;
• ecological cleanliness;
• resistance to such natural processes as decay, aging and vital activity of microorganisms and insects.

All types of cotton wool have their own disadvantages:

1. Inability to keep shape, and as a result, low strength and susceptibility to deformation.
2. Hygroscopicity, or the ability to absorb moisture, but modern manufacturers produce hydrophobization of the fibers, which changes this property of the material.

Based on the above-described characteristics of glass and mineral wool, it can be understood that this material is most suitable for the production of insulation work indoors.

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Expanded polystyrene or polystyrene: characteristics

Insulation granules of this type are mixed and sintered by acting on them high temperature... As a result of this process, a material is obtained, consisting of a huge number of small balls, which form fairly uniform plates.

It is this cellular structure that endows the foam with properties and characteristics that make it popular among the types of materials for insulating houses. These properties include:

• increased indicators of impermeability to water and heat insulation;
• resistance to mechanical influences;
• the property of environmental friendliness and hypoallergenicity, important for the owners of the building;
• resistance to low temperatures;
• ease of work with the material.

Despite all the positive qualities, polystyrene foam is not devoid of disadvantages:

• this material will not be non-flammable, but quite the opposite, in the process of combustion they will emit dangerous toxic substances;
• it is also impervious to steam, which has led to the prohibition of its use for the insulation of wooden structures.

Expanded polystyrene is a material with which any owner can insulate his house with his own hands. Professionals recommend using it in places with a high probability of mechanical stress: floors, flat roofs, basements, etc.

In a capricious, humid cold climate, warming a room is one of the most important building procedures. What insulation to choose? Where to start?

Important! It is best to pay attention to modern materials - they are of high quality, durable, environmentally friendly. The “right” insulation will help reduce heating costs. The main thing is that it does not shrink after construction, does not succumb to the influence of insects and small rodents, and also be adapted to an aggressive weather environment (if there is such a need). Then it is worth starting to assess the value for money.

Manufacturers of modern building materials did everything possible to make the eyes run wide in the store, and the hands did not know what to grab. Kindsheaters and their purpose for most inexperienced inhabitants remain a mystery, covered in darkness. Well, let's try to understand everything in order.

Types of insulation, characteristics and application

There are two types of insulation: reflective (organic, inorganic) and preventative.

Preventive type insulation

This insulation helps reduce heat consumption by reducing the amount of infrared radiation.

Preventative type insulation (inorganic base)

Arbolite - made from shavings, small sawdust, straw and finely chopped reeds. The insulation contains cement and a small content of chemical additives (calcium or soluble glass) as a strong base. At the end of production, such a product is treated with a solution with a high mineral content.

Wood concrete properties:

• Density - 450-700 kg per cubic meter;
• Thermal conductivity 0.06-0.14 watts per meter;
• The compressive strength is 0.2-1 megapascals.

Foam polyvinyl chloride (PPVC) - made from PPVC resins. The resins are given a foamy structure by industrial porosity. Such insulation can be both soft and hard. In essence, it is a universal heat insulator (for roofs, walls, floors, windows and entrance doors). Its density is about 0.1 kg per cubic meter.

Based on fine shavings. Chips make up 90% of its composition. The remaining 10% are: synthetic resin, antiseptics and water repellent.

Chipboard properties:

• Density - 400-1000 kg per cubic meter;
• Tensile strength - 0.2-0.7 megapascals;
• Bending strength of the material - 10-30 megapascals;
• Humidity - 4-12%;
• The hygroscopicity is 5-30 percent.

Insulation board made of wood fibers... Made from waste wood, straw or corn stalks, and even old paper. Resins are used as the basis for binding materials. Also, DVIP contains antiseptics and water-repellent substances. This is one type of insulation used in country houses.

DWIP properties:

• Density - up to 250 kg per cubic meter;
• Bending strength of the material - up to 12 megapascals;
• Thermal conductivity - up to 0.08 watts per meter.

Made on the basis of polyester with the addition of water, diisocyanate, emulsifiers.

Polyurethane foam is an excellent sound absorber. It is also resistant to humid environments. It is convenient in construction - it is applied by spraying. This makes it possible to process surfaces of complex configuration.

Polyurethane foam properties:

• Density - 35-75 kg per cubic meter;
• Thermal conductivity - 0.017-0.027 watts per meter. This is the maximum and best value for thermal insulation today;

Mipora. It is also called penoizol. Mipora is obtained by whipping a urea-formaldehyde resin. For the strength of the material, glycerin is added to it. The foam structure is due to the sulfonic acid content. An organic acid is used as a solidification catalyst. Mipora is sold both in the form of crumbs and in blocks, and in the form of a ready-made solution. This is another type of insulation that is loved in wooden houses.

Mipora properties:

• Density - within 20 kg per cubic meter;
• Thermal conductivity - 0.03 watts per meter;
• Mipora is refractory (it burns only at 500 degrees), but it is subject to deformation in extreme heat;
• Minus - deforms under the influence of aggressive chemicals... Too hygroscopic.

(PPP). 98% of the composition of the insulation is air. The remaining 2% is polystyrene. Fire retardants can also be found in the teaching staff.

Properties of expanded polystyrene:

• Thermal conductivity - 0.038-0.044 watts per meter;
• Does not absorb moisture;
• Resistant to corrosion;
• Does not lend itself to the influence of microflora and bioagents;
• Almost non-flammable. Even if it ignites, it will emit much less heat than burning wood.

Consists of polyethylene and a foaming agent. Perfectly protects against steam and any external noise due to fine pores.

Features of foamed polyethylene:

• Density - 20-55 kg per cubic meter;
• Thermal conductivity - 0.042-0.050 watts per meter;
• Used at temperatures from 40 degrees below zero to 100 degrees above zero;
• Poorly absorbs moisture;
• Practically resistant to chemical and biological effects.

Fiberboard insulation - based on thin wood chips in conjunction with cement and magnesia component. Available in plate form. Ideal for wet rooms.

Properties of fiberboard insulation:

• Density - 200-500 kg per cubic meter;
• Thermal conductivity - 0.06-0.1 watts per meter;
• Refractory.

Sotoplast insulation - consists of cells that resemble a honeycomb. But this is not necessary, the cells, sometimes, there are other forms. Such insulation is filled with a special fabric or paper based on organic fibers and resins. Outside, the insulation is covered with thin sheets of plastic.

It is made from paper waste (defective books, cardboard, newspapers, magazines, etc.). For a lower cost ecowool, waste paper is also used.

Ecowool properties:

• Excellent sound insulation;
• High thermal insulation. Ecowool gradually decreases in volume and its properties deteriorate;
• High hygroscopicity;
• No joints visible after installation.

Preventive insulation (organic base)

It happens slag and stone. Slag is produced on the basis of waste in metal production (both non-ferrous and ferrous). Stone is made on the basis of rocks (limestone, basalt, etc.). Phenol or carbamide is used to bind the components.

Mineral wool properties:

• Does not burn;
• Excellent noise absorption;
• Not influenced chemical substances;
• Poorly absorbs water;
• Almost does not shrink with time;
• Passing steam. Therefore, mineral wool needs insulation.

Made of glass and its production waste. Its fibers are thicker and longer. It does not burn, absorbs sound and is not subject to the damaging effects of chemical compounds.

Glass wool properties:

• Density - up to 130 kg per cubic meter;
• Thermal conductivity - 0.02-0.053 watts per square meter;
• Withstands temperatures up to 450 degrees Celsius;
• Poorly absorbs moisture;
• Does not corrode.

Keramovata - it is based on aluminum oxide and silicon. Manufactured on a special centrifuge. It is not afraid of chemicals and resistant to high temperatures.

Ceramovat properties:

• Withstands temperatures over 1000 degrees Celsius;
• Thermal conductivity - 0.12-0.17 watts per meter;
• Density - up to 350 kg per cubic meter.

Increasingly, people are resorting to insulating their homes and other premises, but the sales market now presents such types of insulation for the house that you will not immediately understand which one is better.

How to choose a good insulation for a house or apartment so that it is of high quality and affordable?

Before purchasing, you need to study the types of insulation and their characteristics, as well as the scope.

Insulation is divided into several classes: using an organic base, from inorganic substances and reflective insulation.

Arbolit, penoizol, fibrolite, expanded clay, PPVH, sotoplast

The organic insulation contains components that were obtained naturally (wood residues, agricultural waste, cement, sometimes plastic).

This type of materials is often found on sale and has an affordable price.

The advantages of such a heat insulator are that it is fireproof, moisture-repellent and environmentally friendly. It is used in conditions where the temperature is below 150 degrees.

Most often, this type of insulation is used for houses: facades are insulated with it or panels for construction are made, filled with an organic heat insulator.

Each type of this type of insulation material is good in its own way, but thanks to this article you will find out which one is better in a particular situation.

Arbolite insulation is a novelty on the sales market. It consists of wood waste (sawdust, small shavings) with the addition of chopped straw or reed waste.

For strength, a cement base is added to the composition, and sometimes chemical products (calcium and liquid glass). The processing process is completed by a mineralizer used to treat wood concrete.

The characteristics of wood concrete insulation have the following meanings:

• density (determined per cubic meter): 500 - 700 kilograms;
• thermal conductivity has a coefficient of 0.08 - 0.12 watts;
• the deformation and compression of this product is between 0.5 and 3.5 megapascals.

The composition of another organic insulation, penoizol, includes an aqueous emulsion of formaldehyde resin. For strength, glycerin is added there.

Sulfonic acids, which are contained in mipora, help to form a foamy consistency. The material can be purchased in the form of crumbs or ready-made blocks.

This product has both positive and negative qualities. In industry, a liquid consistency is sometimes used, which is filled in voids, after which it hardens - this helps to speed up construction.

Fiberboard is another type of thermal insulation panels. These panels are made from narrow strips of wood shavings. For strength, a cement base or magnesite building component is used.

Expanded clay is considered to be the most environmentally friendly insulating component. It turns out in the process of firing clay and has a porous structure.

Expanded clay is used mainly for floor insulation. Expanded clay has a lot of positive qualities, but there are also several negative ones.

Insulation PPVC has a wide range of applications. Insulation for walls, floors, roofs is made from this material, and it is also used as a filler for entrance doors. It consists of chloride resins and can have both a hard and soft base.

Sotoplast - at the heart of the honeycomb, which have a hexagonal shape, use fabrics and paper. Epoxy resin used as a binding material.

The quality of such insulation depends on its structure, honeycomb width and the main component. This material can be used as wall insulation.

Chipboard, DVIP, polyurethane foam, foam plastic, ecowool, polyethylene

Chipboard insulation material is quite popular today. The basis of the boards is wood chips (more than 90%), everything else is made up of resins and antiseptics, which serve for moisture resistance and strength.

The EAF indicators are characterized by the following criteria:

• the density is about a ton per cubic meter;
• the strength of the stretch is 0.2 - 0.5 megapascals;
• the moisture content of these slabs does not exceed 12 percent.

DVIP boards for insulation resemble chipboard in appearance and composition. The only difference between them is the addition of agricultural waste (residues of straw or corn stalks).

For the binder, synthetic components are used in the form of a resin. To reduce the fire, the plates are treated with an antiseptic. DVIP is a good building material.

Mounting foam (polyurethane foam) is used for both outdoor and indoor use. The basis of this insulation is polyester.

Polyfoam (expanded polystyrene) consists of only 2-3% of polystyrene, the rest is air, therefore this material is lightweight and with good thermal insulation.

Positive qualities of foam:

• does not corrode;
• has high waterproofing and soundproofing;
• the thermal conductivity of foam ranges from 0.03-0.04 watts.

Foamed polyethylene consists of foam and polyethylene. This material is used as a vapor barrier.

Foamed polyethylene has the following characteristics:

• density in the range of 25 - 50 kilograms;
• thermal conductivity does not exceed a coefficient of 0.05 watts;
• has minimal moisture absorption;
• has resistance to chemical and biological factors.

The composition of the next insulation, ecowool, includes waste cardboard and other paper products.

Characterizing properties of ecowool:

• it has high noise insulation;
• has high thermal insulation;
• seamless laying of material;
• high coefficient of moisture absorption.

All types of heaters from the previous and this paragraph of the article were made of organic material, but now we will consider another version of heaters and their main property.

Inorganic type of heat insulators

Slag, glass and asbestos are added to the composition of such heaters. Sometimes the composition includes rocks. Inorganic heaters include mineral wool, porous concrete, lightweight concrete and others.

The shape of inorganic heat insulators can be different: they are produced in rolls, in plates and in bulk.

Mineral wool is produced in two varieties: in the form of slag wool and stone wool.

The first type consists of slags that are formed during the casting of metals, and in the second case, natural materials are used, such as limestone, basalt and other rocks.

The only drawback of such a coating is its high vapor permeability.

To eliminate this deficiency, additional materials must be used.

Mineral wool has the following characteristics:

• this material practically does not burn, which helps to use it in rooms for storing explosive substances;
• noise absorption is very high. This quality allows you to insulate panel houses;
• does not undergo deformation, which prevents the formation of cracks;
• not exposed to chemical factors;
• good thermal insulation.

Glass wool is also used in construction. The basis of glass wool consists of remnants of glass products or components that are used to make glass.

Unlike mineral wool, glass wool has one feature - it has a more elastic appearance.

Glass wool characteristics:

• has resistance to elevated temperatures;
• does not corrode;
• thermal conductivity in the range of 0.03 - 0.05 watts;
• the density is about 130 kilograms.

Ceramic wool is another inorganic material for insulation, only aluminum or silicon oxide is added to this component.

The positive qualities of this wool are resistance to chemical reactions, and ceramic wool is not subject to deformation.

Ceramic wool has properties such as:

• resistance to high temperatures;
• cotton wool density within 350 kilograms;
• at temperatures above 600 degrees, cotton wool has a coefficient in the range of 0.13 - 0.16 watts.

Reflective type of insulation

Reflective insulation is based on a material whose surface is capable of reflecting heat.

Such materials include silver, gold and polished aluminum without any additives of various impurities.

To make the price of the material affordable, manufacturers use aluminum. The coating is applied to a polyethylene film, which can serve as a vapor barrier.

Such insulation is produced mainly in rolls with a small thickness.

With a small thickness of the heat insulator, the material has good performance.

The main area where the reflective type is applied is interior decoration... Ceiling and walls will be an effective area.

All this is because the warm air flow is directed upwards, and the reflective insulation will help push the flow back and keep the room warm.

In construction, it is possible to use a combined type of insulation, in which mixtures of asbestos and additional composites are used.

Additives include mica, diatomite, and perlite. Such a mixture has a doughy mass, which is directly applied to the places of insulation, after which they are expected to completely harden.

The only drawback is that this method of insulation is impossible without an additional layer of waterproofing.

For safety reasons, it is necessary to use protective equipment when working, because asbestos dust adversely affects a person.

Positive qualities are determined by high temperature resistance and low thermal conductivity.

The article presented a description of the most common materials for construction, the types of insulation that can now be purchased on the market by affordable price, their characteristics.

The use of all types of insulation is suitable for a house or apartment, but it is better to choose a complex material that will not only help retain heat, but also help eliminate extraneous noise.

A good indicator will be not just insulation, but also protection from wind flow.

One of the primary tasks that is solved at the stage of construction or repair of commercial and private housing is its insulation. Today it is not so much a matter of comfort as of saving on expensive energy resources. Therefore, as never before, all kinds of heaters for walls that are used inside and outside buildings are relevant.

Insulation materials market

Modern market thermal insulation materials demonstrates high growth rates. The reason is the proven efficiency of using energy-saving technologies, which allows saving up to 40% on heating resources. This problem is usually solved in a complex manner, but one of the important stages is invariably the thermal insulation of walls and facades with such materials:

• mineral and glass wool;
• cellulose insulation;
• expanded polystyrene (foam);
• fibrolite;
• liquid ceramic insulation;
• cork and other materials.

When choosing insulation for walls, buyers pay attention to thermal conductivity, cost per unit area, complexity of installation and performance.

Mineral wool is an affordable and popular insulation material. It is a material with a chaotic fibrous structure, obtained by melting igneous and metamorphic rocks. Mineral wool is used to insulate frame structures and walls designed for different degrees of load, contours of structures and structures. Its advantages:

• high resistance to fire;
• low thermal conductivity;
• biological and chemical resistance;
• soundproofing of premises;
• the ability to repel moisture without saturation with it (hydrophobicity);
• mechanical strength;
• resistance to thermal deformation;
• ease of installation.

And now about the cons of mineral wool. This insulation contains harmful components that negatively affect the human body. The respiratory organs, skin and mucous membranes are especially susceptible to them. The phenol in the mineral wool used to insulate the walls causes nausea, weakness and headaches. In order to prevent the harmful effects of this building material, it is isolated from direct contact with the air circulating in the room.

Properties and characteristics of glass wool

Glass wool is a variety mineral insulation... Waste from the glass industry is used in its production. Glass wool consists entirely of fibrous inclusions and is distinguished by high elasticity, strength and vibration resistance. Its thermal conductivity varies from 0.030 to 0.052 W / (m · K).

Glass wool is sold in the form of mats and rolls. Thanks to the technology of pressing in a rolled or pressed form, it takes up a small volume, which simplifies its transportation, storage and installation on a construction site. Glass wool properties:

• high sound insulating ability;
• mechanical strength;
• flexibility and elasticity;
• resistance to mold and mildew;
• environmental Safety.

The main disadvantage of glass wool is the need to strictly observe personal safety precautions when working with it. Thin and sharp fibers are susceptible to brittleness, and, getting on the skin or mucous membranes, they cause irritation, injuring them. Therefore, it is necessary to process the walls with glass wool in overalls that do not leave open areas of the body (the use of gloves is mandatory!).

Properties and characteristics of cellulose insulation

Ecowool, or cellulose insulation, is a loose and lightweight insulating material that covers walls, roofs, partitions and individual structures. 80% of its composition is waste paper (recycled waste paper), the rest - boric acid or borax, which provides a low burning ability.

The popularity of cellulose as a heater is due to its affordable cost and environmental friendliness (it gives a second life to the waste that litters the planet). Its main characteristics:

• density - 30-65 kg / m 3;
• thermal conductivity - 0.032-0.041 W / (m · K);
• vapor permeability - 0.3 mg / (m · h · Pa);
• sound absorption - 36-45 dB.

Cellulose does not cause corrosion of metals in contact with it, has low air permeability, hypoallergenic and hygienic. During installation, it fills the available hollow spaces to form a seamless wall covering. When laying with a dry method, you can work at sub-zero temperatures.

Benefits of expanded polystyrene

Expanded polystyrene is a synthetic gas-filled material based on polystyrene, which is foamed with vapors of low-boiling liquids. It looks like a huge amount of fine-cellular granules, sintered together. The higher the density of the material, the more durable it is. Other properties of expanded polystyrene for wall insulation:

• low thermal conductivity - 0.028-0.034 W / (m · K);
• mechanical strength;
• chemical and biological resistance;
• low vapor and moisture permeability;
• ability to sound absorption;
• long service life (up to 30 years).

Extruded polystyrene foam: properties and characteristics

Extruded polystyrene foam for walls has the same structure as extruded, but the closed pores are smaller - 0.1-0.2 mm. The main thing that distinguishes these two materials is the granule manufacturing technology. Because of it, the extruded polystyrene foam received less flexibility and margin of safety than the foamed version, a different vapor permeability - 0.013 mg / (m · h · Pa), but retained high thermal conductivity - 0.029-0.034 W / (m · K).

Properties and characteristics of fiberboard

Fibrolite - insulation in the form of slabs made of wood fibers and binders. The cut shows a base of natural fibers and a layer of Portland cement (60 and 40%, respectively). Features of fiberboard for walls:

• thermal conductivity - 0.08-0.1 W / (m · K);
• humidity - up to 20%;
• water absorption - 35-40%;
• bending strength - 0.5-1.3 MPa.

Fibrolite is a non-combustible insulation, provides excellent sound insulation, does not rot, it is not affected by fungus and mold, and the service life is up to 60 years.

Environmentally friendly cork materials

If you choose ecological insulation for walls, you should pay attention to cork materials. They are 100% natural, as they are extracted from the bark of oak. The structure of the cork sheet resembles microcells, which are filled with gases.

The heat transfer coefficient of the plug is 0.043-0.050 W / (m · K). The insulation does not burn, does not rot and does not absorb foreign odors. It withstands temperature changes, absorbs sound and vibration, and can be easily installed on a wall without special knowledge and tools.

Liquid ceramic insulation: properties and characteristics

Liquid ceramic insulation - modern insulation in the form of a liquid foam suspension. It is an innovative product that replaces the classic solutions for reducing heat loss through walls. The coating is flexible and dense, evenly fills the available cavities. The maximum effect of thermal insulation is achieved due to the vacuum in the microcavities of the substance.

Advantages of liquid ceramic insulation as wall insulation:

• high anti-corrosion properties;
• durability (up to 15 years);
• wide range of operating temperatures;
• flexibility in thermal expansion;
• ease of application;
• environmental friendliness.

Liquid foam is made from a polymer resin that hardens in air. To apply it, you must use special equipment. It is practical and inexpensive option reduce heat loss through walls, roofs or foundations. Liquid foam has the following properties:

• excellent adhesion to any surfaces and materials;
• minimal preparation of the base (cleaning and draining the wall);
• high vapor permeability;
• no excessive pressure after drying;
• easy application and removal of excess.

Liquid foam is ideal as insulation for horizontal and sloped surfaces, but also works well for wall insulation.