Post insulation for the exterior walls of the house. How to choose a material for thermal insulation of walls outside for a brick, wood and foam concrete house. External wall insulation

No matter how comfortable and modern the house is, without high-quality thermal insulation it will not become comfortable for living. Properly organized insulation can significantly reduce heating costs, protect the facade of the house and its premises from dampness, freezing, the appearance of mold and fungi, which will significantly extend the life of the building. The most popular is the exterior or front insulation of the house.

Advantages and disadvantages of outdoor insulation

All load-bearing elements of the structure should be insulated, however, for the outer walls of the house, this is especially important, since they are the ones leading in terms of heat loss.

By insulating the outer walls, it is possible to protect them from the negative effects of high and low temperatures, as well as their abrupt change. As a rule, the insulation is closed with a facade, which also performs a protective function, taking the atmospheric effect on itself. All this contributes to the preservation of the strength of the walls, an increase in the period of their maintenance-free operation.

Insulation outside can be quite voluminous, but this does not in any way affect the usable area of \u200b\u200bthe premises in the house. This cannot be achieved when insulating rooms from the inside, because even the thinnest layer of thermal insulation leads, albeit to a slight, but decrease in the usable area.

In addition, with external insulation it is possible to avoid the formation of "cold bridges", which inevitably arise between the floor and walls, walls and partitions during internal insulation of the room. Feedback from users suggests that "cold bridges" are practically not formed when the facade is insulated. Otherwise, they can be easily eliminated by using special gaskets at the joints of the insulation sheets.

The task of thermal insulation of external walls is to bring the total indicator of their resistance to heat transfer to the calculated indicator that is optimal for a particular area. More details about such calculations will be discussed below.

Usually they resort to insulation already on the erected walls. Thanks to the variety of modern materials and insulation techniques, it is possible to solve the problems of heat transfer and, accordingly, protect the walls from freezing, the appearance of erosion on concrete surfaces, rotting of wooden structures.

In rare cases, you can do without additional wall insulation in frame houses in the first place. Others, for example, foam block houses, definitely need thermal insulation.

The ways

Depending on the type of facade, structural features and the selected option exterior decoration one or another method of installing insulation is selected. Today's thermal insulation materials have a small thickness with high thermal efficiency. They are suitable for both wet and dry facades and can also be poured into wall voids. The first one involves the use of building mixtures for finishing; the insulation is fixed with glue.

Suspended facades involve the use of fasteners. As a rule, panels and tiles are used for decoration, which delight in a variety of designs. The user can choose calm muted panel shades or, on the contrary, bright ones. Facade materials like stone, wood, imitating plaster or brickwork, are very popular.

Thermal insulation with bulk material, for example, granular foam glass, is used when erecting walls using the well method. Also, materials of this type are suitable for mixing masonry mortars and plaster mixtures. Regardless of the chosen method of laying the insulation, the surface of the walls should be prepared. All protruding elements must be repulsed, cracks and gaps must be repaired with cement mortar.

It is necessary to remove all communications from the facade - wires, pipes. The surface must be level, clean and dry.After that, it is necessary to prime the facade in 2-3 layers. The primer will provide additional protection for the walls as well as better adhesion of materials. It is recommended to pre-treat wooden surfaces with an antiseptic or choose a primer containing antiseptic additives.

Under plaster

Insulation in the form of sheets or plates is glued to the prepared wall with special glue. Additional fixation is provided by umbrella dowels, which are inserted into specially made holes on the surface of the glued insulation. Each subsequent row of insulation is attached with an offset of ½ sheet of the previous row. For some time after gluing, the material remains mobile, so it is possible to align it and correct minor flaws.

After the insulation is fixed, a thick layer of glue is applied to it, into which the reinforcing mesh is pressed. First, it is attached to the corners of the building, for which special corners are used. After about a day, the facade mesh is securely installed at the corners and you can start attaching the mesh to the rest of the facade surfaces.

The next step is to plaster the surfaces. The composition is applied in several layers. Each subsequent one - after the previous one has completely dried. To improve the adhesion of the layers and eliminate small irregularities on the dry layer, you should walk with fine sandpaper.

The finishing layer of plaster is covered decorative plaster or colored facade paint... The latter usually has an acrylic base, the presence of polyurethane in the composition is permissible to increase the strength and wear resistance of the painted layer.

Ventilated facade

To increase the thermal efficiency of a building, they increasingly resort to organizing a ventilated facade. Its feature is the presence of air space between the insulation fixed close to the wall and the facade material. This distance is usually 25-50 mm.

In addition to preparing the facade, it is necessary to install a batten - a system consisting of metal profiles or wooden bars, which is a frame. Facade materials are attached to this frame.

For lathing they are increasingly using metal profiles, which is due to their greater bearing capacity, as well as durability and fire resistance. An important point - the profiles of the lathing should be made of stainless steel. Other metals may be used, provided that they have anti-corrosion protection.

Wooden logs are also used as a frame. Before installation, they are treated with fire retardants and compounds that increase the hydrophobicity of the wood. The frame is attached to the entire surface of the facade by means of brackets. Insulation (in the form of sheets, mats) is laid between the guides of the crate, which is attached to the brackets (as if hung on them).

A waterproofing windproof membrane is laid on top of the insulation, which serves to protect the thermal insulation layer from moisture and blowing out. The membrane, together with the insulation, is fixed to the wall by means of disc dowels. The fastening element must be in the center of each heat-insulating sheet, 2-3 dowels are installed at the edges.

The completion of the work is the installation of hinged panels or tiles, which are attached with self-tapping screws to the crate and interlock with each other by means of a locking mechanism. The latter ensures the wind resistance of the facade, the absence of gaps in it. For the design of corners, window and door openings, various architectural elements, special additional structures are used.

It is a mistake to think that only a curtain facade can be ventilated. Wet technology is quite applicable to a ventilated system. For this, the facade is also decorated wooden crate, between the guides of which the insulation is glued. A protective membrane is installed on top of it.

This "pie" is covered with a solid sheathing of plywood or boards. They are attached to wooden logs, thus creating a solid wooden "facade". It is primed, and after drying, the finishing plastering is performed.

Finally, there is the so-called integrated approach - the organization of a ventilated facade using thermal panels. The latter are insulated facade slabs (for example, clinker), which are glued or fixed to the lathing. Additional wall insulation is not needed, the main thing is to select the required thickness of the thermal panel insulation (standard thickness is 30-100 mm) and seal the gaps between the facade tiles.

Three-layer system

This insulation technology is possible only when building walls at home. As a rule, it involves laying walls according to the principle of a well. As the level of the facade rises, an air space forms between the walls. It is filled with bulk insulation or liquid thermal insulation mixtures.

An option for such a construction can be the use of overall aerated concrete blocks with large cavities for the construction of walls. In this case, the cavities in the blocks are filled with bulk insulation (expanded clay, perlite).

A simpler and less time-consuming way to build warm walls is to use blocks of non-removable polystyrene foam formwork. The assembly of blocks is somewhat similar to the assembly of a children's designer - the elements of the wall structure are fastened together by means of spikes and grooves. After the wall has risen somewhat, a reinforcing belt is installed and concrete mortar is poured.

The result is reinforced concrete walls equipped with an inner and outer thermal insulation layer. Facade decoration in this case is carried out using ½ brickwork, facade tiles, or simply plastered. Choice of options interior decoration is also wide.

The only way to organize a three-layer insulation system is to cover the structure. brickwork... In other words, the masonry is the outer layer of the "pie", as well as the finishing of the facade.

The technology implies the insulation of the main wall with a heater, and then lining it with bricks. This method is only suitable for reinforced foundations that protrude at least the width of the brick. If the bearing capacity of the existing foundation is small, then the brick cladding requires the installation of its own foundation. He, in turn, must be associated with the base of the main walls.

Varieties

Insulation materials have a different appearance, depending on the composition and production technologies, specifications and scope of application. There are materials that are used exclusively on flat surfaces, while others are only suitable for a curtain-ventilated facade.

However, modern heaters are quite versatile. So, bulk materials are suitable not only for insulating flat surfaces or filling in the inter-wall space, but can also be added to cement mortar for pouring or screed floors. Mineral wool materials are used for wet and curtain façades and are also suitable for thermal insulation of interior walls, floors and ceilings. Moreover, due to the heat resistance of stone wool, baths or saunas can be insulated with it.

Stone wool can insulate both non-stressed structures and those that are under pressure. To do this, you just need to choose the right cotton wool density.

Due to the variety of release forms, it is possible to choose a more convenient option from the point of view of installation for a specific site. So, it is convenient to use roll materials to insulate flat, flat areas. Plates will help out, if necessary, to cover large flat vertical surfaces. Loose materials or foam insulation are suitable for basement insulation.

Styrofoam and extruded polystyrene foam

Previously, styrene foam insulation was almost the only one, and therefore was widespread. Today the situation is different, and the owners of private houses are in no hurry to use it for thermal insulation.

Expanded polystyrene materials are presented in two types - non-pressed expanded polystyrene (more commonly known as foam) and an analogue obtained during extrusion. Styrofoam is a lightweight rectangular block whitethat may have different thickness... At the base are foam balls filled with air. They provide significant indicators of the thermal efficiency of the material.

However, it is important to understand that it is thanks to this structure that the material is able to absorb up to 300% of its mass of water. Naturally, there is no trace of the former thermal efficiency.

Styrofoam does not allow the walls to "breathe", and after 5-7 years its thermal efficiency will decrease by about 8 times. This is confirmed by laboratory studies and is associated with destructive changes in the material (the appearance of cracks, half-lengths).

The main danger of using foam as a heater is its tendency to actively burn with the release of extremely toxic substances into the air. In this regard, it is banned for use in construction in many European countries.

However, in fairness, it should be noted that foam plastic, due to its low weight, does not require strengthening the facade, is easy to install, and has a low cost. More modern variety Styrofoam is extruded polystyrene foam. Due to the technological features of production, the material managed to deprive many of the disadvantages of its non-foamed analogue.

The extruded material also consists of many smaller (compared to foam) air bubbles, each of which is isolated from the next. This increases the thermal efficiency of the material, as well as the mechanical strength and moisture resistance.

The components of carbon dioxide or inert gases present in the composition somewhat increase the fire resistance of the extruded insulation, but talk about its complete fire safety not necessary.

Due to its low vapor permeability, the material is suitable for use only in ventilated facades. At the same time, it is important to stick it tightly to the surface of the walls, avoiding gaps and gaps between the insulation and the wall.

Extruded polystyrene foam is good for insulating a basement or foundation. The increased strength of the material will ensure its resistance to soil pressure, and moisture resistance will protect it from getting wet and deteriorating the base.

Polyurethane foam

The use of polyurethane foam is considered one of the most effective ways thermal insulation, since in terms of its thermal insulation characteristics it is significantly superior to most thermal insulation materials. To achieve a positive effect, a layer of 2-3 cm is enough.

Polyurethane foam refers to liquid types of insulation, which are applied by spraying. After solidification, a durable moisture-resistant layer is formed. Thanks to the improved adhesion of the material, such a monolithic "fur coat" is applied to almost any surface. An important advantage of polyurethane foam is its fire resistance. Even when decomposed by high temperatures, it does not release toxins.

It is worth noting the environmental friendliness of the coating. During spraying, the composition contains compounds hazardous to health, however, as they solidify, they volatilize. The material is not suitable for contact finishing (plastering, painting), since it is impossible to obtain a completely smooth and even surface during the spraying process.

Aligning a polyurethane foam "coat" (as well as removing it completely) is a very laborious process. Among the disadvantages is low vapor permeability. This necessitates enhanced ventilation of the facade. Polyurethane foam is not recommended for application on wooden walls, because in just 5-7 years, wood decays due to constantly high humidity.

Mineral wool

Today this material is becoming more widespread due to its versatility, good thermal insulation performance and affordability. Such material consists of randomly spaced fibers, between which air bubbles are contained in large volumes. It is they who provide not only a high thermal insulation effect, but also good sound insulation.

When insulating facades, glass and basalt wool are usually used. The first is based on broken glass and quartz sand, which are melted. Long and thin fibers are formed from the semi-liquid mass, after which they are given the necessary shape (mats, rolls).

Glass wool is plastic, which determines, firstly, the simplicity of its transportation and storage, and secondly, the possibility of using it on uneven surfaces. The material is pressed and packed into compact boxes or rolls. After opening the package, the material takes the prescribed shape and volume. In addition, due to its elasticity, glass wool insulation is optimal for cladding wall surfaces with complex configurations.

The material does not melt, does not attract rodents or pathogenic microflora (fungi, insects). The combustion temperature is 500 degrees, which allows us to speak of a low flammability class of the material. Its affordable cost is a definite plus.

A significant disadvantage of glass wool is its hygroscopicity. It is clear that getting wet, the material loses its technical characteristics. In this regard, when using insulation, it is important to think over reliable waterproofing or the possibility of regular ventilation.

Glass elements, being amorphous, stick together during operation. This causes the material to shrink - over time it becomes thinner, which negatively affects its thermal insulation properties. Finally, glass wool fibers have cutting edges. They penetrate the skin, causing irritation.

In addition, as they rise into the air, glass wool particles enter the upper respiratory tract and on the surface of the mucous membranes, also causing swelling and irritation. To work with insulation, you must purchase a special suit, glasses, gloves and a respirator.

Basalt wool is more attractive in terms of installation and technical characteristics. It is also called stone, due to the peculiarities of its composition. Cotton wool is made from molten rocks (basalt, dolomite). The heating temperature reaches 1300-1500 degrees. Fibers are also drawn from the molten raw material, from which mats are formed. Those, in turn, are subjected to pressing and additional heat treatment to obtain strength and geometric accuracy of shapes.

Basalt wool is superior in thermal efficiency to fiberglass of similar density. Stone wool is distinguished by excellent vapor permeability and high water resistance (due to special fiber impregnation). Despite the density of the mats, they are easily cut with a construction knife. In this case, the adhesive can be applied directly to the cotton wool, as well as the plaster layer (after the wool is reinforced).

Basalt insulation fibers are less brittle, do not split. It is easier to work with the material, although you should not give up a respirator. Like all mineral wool insulation, stone wool forms dust during installation, which negatively affects the state of the respiratory system.

Liquid products

When applied, liquid insulation looks like paint. However, they contain evacuated voids, thanks to which stunningly low values \u200b\u200bof thermal conductivity are achieved (by fractions of a thousandth they are superior only to the thermal conductivity of vacuum).

It is worth noting the ease of application and good adhesion with most building materials... The formulations are applied as paint coatings using brushes or rollers. Setting time is on average 6-8 hours. After that, an attractive, fire-resistant, environmentally friendly surface is formed. The liquid coating also protects walls from negative weathering and has anti-corrosion properties.

Loose species

They are used to fill wall cavities or create mortars with thermal insulation properties. The oldest loose heat insulator is expanded clay, which is “balls” of fired clay of different fractions. Due to its porous structure, the material has good thermal insulation properties. During the sintering process, it gains surface strength. In combination with the low weight, this expands the scope of expanded clay.

The advantage of the material is its non-hygroscopicity (despite its porous structure), fire resistance (does not burn, does not emit toxins during heating), biostability (does not become a habitat for any of the life forms, a home or food for rodents), environmental friendliness and affordable price... When using expanded clay, it is important to fill it with a thick layer, use a multi-layer structure or large hollow blocks. This is the only way to achieve high-quality insulation.

A more modern bulk insulation is vermiculite. It is based on hydromica, which is subjected to high-temperature firing. As a result, it swells, turning into layered granules with a large number of pores.

It has a low thermal conductivity, fire resistance and durability. The only drawback is the high cost (on average, 7000-10000 rubles per m3 of vermiculite). The optimal solution in this regard is to add granules to the plaster mix to obtain a "warm plaster". Due to its high vapor permeability, such plaster is successfully used on different types surface.

The use of expanded perlite sand is no less effective. The raw material is volcanic glass, which after firing forms fine and light porous sand.

The finished product is characterized by high values \u200b\u200bof thermal insulation (due to its low density and gas content), fire resistance. The composition of perlite contains fine powder, which is why it is quite difficult to work with it - the process promises to be troublesome and dusty. The best solution is to mix it into concrete or masonry mortars.

The use of the latter provides high-quality thermal insulation and reduces the risk of "cold bridges" formation, since the solution penetrates into the joints between bricks or blocks, fills cracks and voids. Perlite is also used as part of "warm plasters", the application of which not only copes with the function of thermal insulation of the house, but also acts as a finishing finish of the facade.

Criterias of choice

In addition to low thermal conductivity, insulation for external walls must be characterized by high fire resistance. The optimal materials are those that belong to the class NG (non-combustible materials) or have a low flammability class (G1, G2). Fortunately, most materials are self-extinguishing, that is, they do not burn with an open flame.

However, modern synthetic-based heaters (and most of them) can emit hazardous combustion products when smoldering. According to statistics, it is they who become the cause of human casualties during a fire. In this regard, it is important to choose not only a fire-resistant material, but also to make sure that it does not emit toxic elements during combustion.

Another important criterion is the vapor permeability of the insulation. When insulating walls, it is important to bring the "dew point" to the outer layer of insulation. This point is a linearly changing boundary, which accounts for the transition of moisture from one state of aggregation to another, or rather, from vapor to liquid. The liquid, in turn, leads to wetting of the walls and insulation, after which the latter ceases to cope with its functions.

The walls get wet, erosion and other destructions occur on them, zones of high humidity are found inside the house, which leads to dampness of the walls, the appearance of mold, and insect nesting. Avoiding such troubles allows the choice of insulation with high rates of vapor barrier and moisture resistance and, of course, the competent organization of the thermal insulation "pie" with the obligatory use of a vapor barrier film or membrane.

When choosing a heater, it is important to consider the cladding material. So, for brick walls you can purchase expanded polystyrene, while it is imperative to provide a ventilation system. Stone wool or expanded polystyrene is traditionally used under a wet facade. For hinged facades - mineral wool insulation, as well as for wooden buildings.

It is also important to take into account the features of the operation of a suburban building. So, as a heater in the country, where you live only in the summer, extruded polystyrene foam is quite suitable. If you finish it with plaster, it will turn out to be cheap and beautiful to equip the facade.

But for the insulation of walls made of aerated concrete, polystyrene cannot be used. A good solution would be the use of mineral wool insulation and further siding. By the way, this option is also optimal for cinder block houses and expanded clay concrete walls. An arbolite house built from blocks with a thickness of 30 cm or more does not need to be insulated. An exception is living in a region with a harsh climate.

Preparatory work

Preparatory work imply the choice and purchase of insulation. It is important to correctly calculate its amount (volume), as well as thickness. If the thermal insulation is carried out independently by the owner of the house, the walls should be even and smooth.

To do this, communications are dismantled from their surface, protruding elements are knocked off, cracks are filled with cement mortar. After that, the facade is primed in 2-3 layers. When organizing a ventilated system, a crate is mounted. When facing with bricks, the foundation is strengthened.

Thickness calculation

With thermal insulation, it is important not only to choose the right insulation, but also to calculate its required thickness. Using an overly thin layer will not solve the heat loss problem. An unreasonably thick layer will lead to excessive stress on the walls, an irrational increase in the cost of work.

There is a special formula for calculating the thickness of the insulation, but it can be difficult for a non-professional to work with it. Knowledge of the regulatory requirements for wall thickness helps to simplify the calculation process. So, for brick walls, this thickness is 210 cm, for wooden - 53 cm. Next, you need to find out the thickness of the walls in own home, by subtraction, establish how many cm are missing to the standard indicators.

Installation technology

Most modern insulation materials are versatile and are suitable for fastening from the street to stone, concrete, wooden surfaces, base from blocks. As a finish, both decorative compositions and tiles, panels and siding for tiles and natural finishing materials are used.

The installation technology differs depending on the features of the organization of the facade system and the materials used. Slightly above, it has already been said about 3 possible methods for arranging an insulated facade:

• heat insulation for plaster;
• ventilated facade;
• three-layer facade.

When insulating walls, it is important to take care of insulating its basement part. It is through the base that most of the heat loss occurs. Foamed polystyrene foam, polyurethane foam, basalt insulation are suitable as insulation.

The surface of the basement is cleaned of facade coating, dirt, if necessary, reinforced, necessarily leveled, primed. Next, the insulation is fixed in accordance with the technological recommendations for its installation.

Surely the residents of apartment buildings are a little jealous of those who live outside the city in a private building. Own living space, garden, clean air - everyone's dream. Alas, not everything is so simple, because the harsh Russian winters force you to carefully insulate your home in order to prevent it from freezing. This presupposes an impressive investment and constant monitoring of the state of the thermal insulation material, from which residents of city houses are exempt.

Warming a house is preferable to using a dozen heating devices - you can save money and also make your home more comfortable. It is known that there are two ways to insulate a private building - outside and inside. Experienced experts recommend using both, but the primary thing is to take care of the external insulation. About what material is best suited for certain houses - below.

Requirements for thermal insulation material

The consumer is not threatened with a long search for good products - the market is saturated with goods from different manufacturers, so you can choose a decent insulation in any hardware store. However, before buying, it is necessary to analyze the material in question for its physical and chemical properties... These include:

• thermal conductivity coefficient (characterizes the ability of the insulation to conduct or hold air; the lower the indicator, the better - you do not have to use a thick layer of material);
• moisture absorption coefficient (indicates the ability of the material to absorb water in percentage by weight; the higher the indicator, the less durable the insulation is);
• density (based on the value, you can determine how much the material will weigh the house);
• resistance to fire (there are 4 flammability classes; the first one (G1) is most preferable, which stops burning without an open source of fire);
• environmental friendliness (not the most important indicator for consumers, and in vain - to preserve the health of family members, it is worth choosing only natural material from natural components that does not emit impurities into the atmosphere and does not contain synthetic elements);
• durability (the service life of the insulation set by the manufacturer);
• hygroscopicity (the ability to absorb steam from the air);
• resistance to pests (insects, rodents, birds);
• noise insulation properties;
• ease of installation (the insulation should be fixed quickly, with a minimum set of tools; also a minimum amount of additional work should be done with it, such as cutting into even pieces).

It is difficult to choose a material that has all the desirable qualities. For this reason, it is possible and necessary to carry out insulation outside and inside.

Advantages of external thermal insulation

The question of insulating a private house from the outside arises in two cases - at the design stage of a building or when buying a finished one, but at the same time does not have decent thermal insulation. The second situation is more common. What are the advantages of insulating a home from the outside? These include:

• reduction of wall deformability due to additional protection;
• the facade perceives sharp temperature fluctuations; as a result, the service life of the structure will be extended;
• freedom in choosing the design of the facade, even when the building is erected;
• the area of \u200b\u200bthe interior remains unchanged; this allows you to carry out any kind of finishing, and the living conditions will remain the same.

Ways to insulate the house outside

The need and advantages of thermal insulation from the outside are obvious; now the consumer should get acquainted with the methods of insulation. There are three of them:

• "Well" arrangement of the material;
• "Wet" glued insulation;
• ventilated facade.

In the first case, the insulation is placed inside the walls (for example, between layers of bricks). It turns out that he is "locked" among two levels. The method is effective, but it is impossible to implement it for an already built house.

In the second case, the layer of insulation is fixed to the glue outside the walls, then additionally attached to the dowels. Several types of coatings are applied on top - reinforcing, intermediate, decorative (finishing). A good way, it only requires the intervention of specialists; it is impossible to do wet wall insulation with your own hands without experience.

The ventilated facade resembles a "well" masonry, only the outer layer is facing material - plasterboard, tiles, siding, etc. Additionally, you will have to build a frame system for fixing heat insulator sheets.

The last method is the most popular, widespread and profitable. It will be much cheaper than “wet” insulation; in addition, even a beginner can do the job with his own hands. Now the consumer faces the most difficult choice.

Existing materials can be divided into two large groups - organic (of natural origin) and inorganic (obtained using special materials and equipment).

Types and advantages of inorganic insulation

The first place on the list rightfully belongs to the most popular material - mineral wool. It is of three types - stone (basalt), glass and slag. Differing from each other only externally, varieties of mineral wool have the following qualities:

• low thermal conductivity coefficient (0.03 - 0.045);
• density variations (from 20 to 200 kg / m3);
• excellent noise insulation properties;
• vapor permeability (mineral wool can "breathe");
• fire resistance.

It is not without a number of disadvantages, including:

• attractiveness to rodents and insectoids;
• deterioration of thermal insulation characteristics by 50% when only 3-5% of the volume gets wet;
• never completely dries out.

Generally mineral wool good, but it is highly undesirable to use it for cladding a house outside.

The second known outdoor insulation is polystyrene foam. Its pros:

• the heat conductivity coefficient is slightly lower than that of mineral wool (0.03 - 0.037);
• costs less than other heaters;
• lightweight;
• density from 11 to 40 kg / m3.

• fragility;
• release of toxic substances during fire;
• does not "breathe", which forces residents to build additional supply and exhaust ventilation;
• when directly wet, it absorbs moisture and becomes unusable.

Extruded polystyrene foam is not inferior to the thermal conductivity of mineral wool and foam. In addition, he:

• does not absorb moisture;
• convenient for installation, because it is produced in plates;
• stronger than polystyrene;
• almost does not let air through.

Disadvantages:

• flammable;
• emits harmful substances during combustion.

There is one more type of raw materials used for external thermal insulation of the walls of the house - "warm" plasters. They are a mixture of beads (formed by glass, cement and hydrophobic additives). "Breathe", isolate the room from moisture, do not burn, are not afraid sun raysare easy to repair. Not very common on the market, nevertheless, experienced consumers have already appreciated this insulation.

Varieties and benefits of organic materials

For those who want to feel the maximum closeness to nature, it is recommended to use raw materials from natural ingredients. These include:

• cork heaters - have a thermal insulation coefficient of 0.045 - 0.06; are crushed bark of a tree, compressed under the influence of hot steam and resin as a binding element; easy to cut, "breathe", do not form mold, non-toxic; today they are increasingly used to insulate walls from the outside);
• cellulose wool (ecowool) - thermal conductivity from 0.032 to 0.038; are crushed cellulose, treated with fire retardants to increase fire-fighting properties; properties resemble cork materials, but absorb liquid better; do not withstand heavy loads and are not suitable for wall cladding;
• hemp - supplied in slabs, rolls, mats based on hemp fibers; does not hold the load poorly, although it is quite dense (20-60 kg / m3);
• straw is an old way to insulate the walls of a house; breathable material treated with flame retardants to reduce flammability; practically not used today;
• seaweed - an exotic method of covering external walls; density up to 80 kg / m3, do not burn, do not rot, do not arouse interest in rodents, are resistant to mold and mildew. Better for light walls.

Preferred insulation for house cladding

Each material has pros and cons. Based on the above information, you can make a symbolic rating of the most quality materials for the walls of the house (the first is the most preferable, etc.). It is also worth considering the type of facade design.

For ventilated systems better fit cotton wool - mineral, cellulose. When laying wells, preference is given to material that does not allow moisture to pass through. This is extruded polystyrene foam. Plastering of walls goes well with insulation, whose density is more than 30 kg / m3. For example, with mineral wool, EPS, foam, any organic material.

For light walls of a wooden house, a breathable material is better suited - mineral wool, hemp, ecowool, cork insulation. The first is preferable, but costs a little more.

A country house should be high quality sheathed with reliable material. The consumer can choose any of those discussed earlier, guided by their wishes or financial capabilities. A competent approach to the purchase of insulation is the key to a long service life of a cozy home.

Thermal insulation of external walls is the most common method of reliable insulation of old houses and buildings made using modern technologies. A wide range of materials allows you to make the right choice for an individual building and an apartment building. The main thing, when choosing, is to know the negative and positive properties of the material for external wall insulation.

The advantages of this method of saving heat include 5 main advantages:

1. When installed, wall panels receive guaranteed protection against sudden temperature changes at different times of the year. Therefore, the scheme will save residents from severe frost, but also protect them from the heat in summer. With quality work, the formation of a cold bridge and heat loss is prevented.
2. Such a device does not affect the internal dimensions of the building and its useful total area.
3. Insulation installed outside protects the interior from mold and dampness.
4. The work does not require a lot of time and money. But thermal insulation with the help of materials has a sufficient level of building protection in comparison with the building lining with additional rows of bricks or foam concrete.
5. The appearance of the wall improves, the level of sound insulation increases.

All the advantages are the same for each material, but some of them will require a thicker layer or money to purchase and install thermal insulation layers.

Types of thermal insulation for outdoor protection

IN modern conditions, the industry develops and produces new substances that are used to perform thermal protection of a building or apartment. Each product will require the use of a variety of tools and methods for applying the protective coating to the walls.

They have their advantages and disadvantages, the degree of frost resistance and moisture resistance, for all these qualities, the most common materials for protecting walls are:

• foam plates;
• mineral wool;
• polyurethane foam;
• expanded polystyrene;
• wall treatment with liquid thermal insulation.

These are the main coatings for the external surfaces of the building, for the implementation the right choice, it is better to know their pros and cons in more detail.

Wall insulation with foam sheets

This is one of the most common methods in terms of value for money. To install a protective layer, no special skills are required; a beginner will also cope with the work. The calculation of the amount of material depends on the total wall area. Necessarily in this case they are determined with the required density and thickness of foam sheets. The optimum level of protection depends on these values.

For installation, a special cement-glue mixture is used; for secure fastening, it is possible to use special dowels. This is a very inexpensive and easy way. It has proven itself very well in low temperature environments.

Mineral wool for outdoor surfaces

Walls outside houses can be insulated with this roll material. At a low price, it has good insulating properties. The industry produces several types of this insulation:

• glass wool;
• slag wool, made from waste of open-hearth furnaces;
• stone rocks are the basis for the production of basalt wool.

It is the most inexpensive material for exterior wall insulation. To give the best chemical and operational properties, the boards are treated with special substances. Polymer impregnation is used to make the material water-repellent.

Wall treatment with polyurethane foam solution

With this method, a layer of protective material is sprayed on the surface of the outer walls. To obtain a solution, the equipment is used to mix the polyol and the polyurethane. At the same time, the product is foaming with the help of carbon dioxide. The finished mixture enters the assembly gun.

The product is supplied under pressure, sprayed, and evenly laid on the walls. At the same time, the use of adhesives is not required, after applying a layer of polyurethane foam, the installation of a fiberglass mesh will be required to give strength and a finishing finish takes place on top of it finishing materials... To achieve the ratio of layer size and thermal insulation properties the best option will be used outside, insulation with a density of 30 kg / m3.

Surface treatment with expanded polystyrene

One of the leaders in the market for wall insulation outside the house. Inexpensive, easy to handle and install, with excellent thermal insulation characteristics, expanded polystyrene allows it to be installed on most residential buildings. Available in 2 types:

• Extrusive. A substance with a denser and stronger structure. It is obtained by punching high-viscosity melt-based materials. In this way, extrusion-type insulation plates are formed.
• Unpressed. The PSB-S marking means non-pressed, self-extinguishing expanded polystyrene. A distinctive feature of this material is its granular structure. The sizes of the granules change from 5 mm. up to 15 mm. The two-digit number after the marking indicates the density of the material. Produced using the high temperature sintering method.

Plates are produced with special groove-ridges and grooves. At -250, a 50 mm thick slab provides excellent thermal conductivity for walls made from basic building materials.

Application of liquid thermal insulation

These modern material, are the most modern insulation outside the building. They are used for application on metal parts and as insulation of buildings from a foam block. When used outside the home, this ceramic interconnect resembles applied acrylic paint.

But the voids contained in the material play the role of insulation. This ensures a sufficient level of thermal insulation outside the building. The thermal conductivity level of liquid sealants is almost equal to zero vacuum heat transfer. The method is very simple and does not require the involvement of specialists. It is applied to all wall surfaces from any building materials. For this, it is necessary to paint the walls outside the building with manual or hydraulic painting tools, filling in all the voids and unevenness of the surface.

After 6 hours, the surface is completely dry. This forms a coating with a solid, resistant to mechanical damage, layer of insulation. The level of low thermal conductivity allows the substance to be applied in a thin layer, reducing heat loss through the walls. At very low and high temperatures there is no better tool that can work at temperatures - 600 and +2600. At the same time, not only walls are protected from solar radiation, but also metal parts.

Another advantage of using liquid thermal insulation of walls outside the building is a low level of moisture absorption, not exceeding 4 tenths of a percent of the mass of the substance layer. This method of protection will be better in terms of waterproofing the surface of the walls and the formation of condensation drips on them.

This type of insulation will protect the room from the formation of mold and mildew, and will also protect the interior rooms from freezing in very severe frosts and from the heat at high summer temperatures.

In conclusion, a few conclusions

Each of the listed materials used as insulation for external walls must fulfill its main purpose. First of all - to insulate a private household or an apartment in an apartment building. And then already isolate the premises from moisture, draft, but the main thing is to keep warm in the house.

Which insulation is better or worse depends on the individual capabilities of the owners of the premises and the conditions for its use. One of the main advantages of all the listed materials is the sufficient ease of application at a low cost of materials. Only for polyurethane foam insulation, the use of a special tool is required. In all other cases, work is carried out with a minimum stock of tools.

Outside insulation gives a much better effect than insulating a house from the inside. In addition to the main functions, the insulation protects the walls from precipitation, mechanical damage, weathering and thereby prolongs the service life of the entire building. Installation of insulation does not require special knowledge or skills, and most homeowners easily cope with this task on their own. But in order to do everything as efficiently as possible, you need to know what materials are available for insulating walls from the outside, and how to fix them correctly.

Despite the fact that the operating conditions outside and inside the house are strikingly different, in both cases the same materials can be used. Nevertheless, when choosing a heater, preference should be given to those options that best meet the following requirements:

• increased resistance to shrinkage;
• resistance to mechanical damage;
• uV resistance;
• durability;
• ease of installation;
• resistance to insects and microorganisms.

For wooden houses, the vapor transmission capacity of the insulation is also important, because wooden walls must "breathe". As a rule, finishing coatings for facades are designed for long-term operation, and it is too troublesome and not always advisable to remove them every few years to replace worn-out thermal insulation. At the same time, if the insulation under the finish is compressed, cracked, starts to rot or mice gnaw it, it will no longer be able to retain heat, which means that it will not be possible to do without repairs. That is why it is so important that the selected material fully meets the specified criteria.

Types of insulation materials

At the moment, the construction market offers the following materials for house insulation:

All of them differ in technical characteristics, installation technology, and have different service life. Moreover, each of them is suitable for outdoor use and has its own advantages. Let's consider these materials in more detail.

Mineral wool is made from fine fibers obtained by melting and spraying glass, blast furnace slag or rocks. Depending on the location of the fibers, the structure of the insulation can be corrugated, vertically layered and horizontally layered, have a different density and thickness. Each type of mineral wool has its own characteristics:

Mineral wool is produced in slabs and mats with various coating options - kraft paper, aluminum foil, fiberglass. Basalt insulation is the most expensive in terms of cost, and the higher its density, the more expensive it is.

The advantages of mineral wool:

• fine-fiber structure contributes to the free passage of air and water vapor, so the risk of condensation on the insulated surface is minimal;
• thanks to the mineral base, the material is not subject to combustion, which means it is an additional protection for walls from fire;
• the insulation has a relatively high moisture resistance, and therefore effectively prevents the penetration of moisture into the house;
• mineral wool perfectly absorbs sounds and vibrations, and street noise almost does not penetrate into the insulated room;
• the insulation is lightweight, easy to process, thanks to its elasticity, it quickly restores its shape after wrinkling during installation;
• microorganisms, insects do not develop in mineral wool, rodents do not like it.

Disadvantages:

• mineral wool tends to shrink, and the lower the density of the material, the faster deformation occurs. Less prone to shrinkage rigid basalt slabs, but due to the high cost, not everyone can afford such thermal insulation;
• with prolonged wetting, the insulation is saturated with moisture and loses its thermal insulation qualities;
• microscopic fibers are easily destroyed by squeezing and cutting the material, and then settle on the skin, causing irritation, can get into the eyes and lungs. Glass wool is considered the most dangerous in this regard, but with other types of mineral wool, at least gloves and a respirator should be used.

Popular brands of mineral wool.

Name	Brief characteristics
	Basalt insulation with increased rigidity, produced in the form of plates with a thickness of 25 to 180 mm. Suitable for all types of facades, can be used as a base for plastering. Differs in resistance to deformation and shrinkage, water resistance, low thermal conductivity, absolutely non-flammable. Fastening is done with dowels and glue
	A type of glass wool with various additives that improve the characteristics of the insulation. It is produced in plates and rolls, there are options with a foil coating. It is widely used for insulation of all types of facades, frame structures, internal partitions, roofing systems
	Fiberglass insulation that does not contain formaldehyde additives. Produced in plates and rolls, it is distinguished by biological and chemical resistance, elasticity, good vapor permeability. Material thickness - from 5 to 10 cm
	Glass wool insulation with a high content of water repellents. It is produced in the form of rolls, mats, rigid and semi-rigid plates, 50-100 mm thick. Suitable for all types of surfaces, ventilated facades, frame structures

Prices for mineral wool

Polyfoam and EPS

Heaters based on expanded polystyrene are excellent heat insulators due to their closed cellular structure. Almost 98% of the material is air or an inert gas, enclosed in sealed cells, so the insulation weighs very little. Both polystyrene and extruded polystyrene foam practically do not absorb moisture, which means that they are excellent for insulating foundations, plinths, basements. When insulating facades, these materials serve as the basis for applying plaster.

Benefits:

• polystyrene foam insulators weigh little and are easy to process during installation, so a beginner can cope with this. In addition, such thermal insulation does not exert a large load on the base, which means that there is no need for additional reinforcement of the supporting structures;
• microorganisms cannot develop in expanded polystyrene, therefore fungi and mold are not afraid of insulation;
• with proper installation, these materials serve for a long time, especially EPS - up to 50 years;
• styrofoam and EPS are resistant to soap and salt solutions, alkalis, bleach and other chemically aggressive substances;
• installation does not require the use of protective equipment in the form of a respirator or gloves, since the insulation does not emit toxic fumes or small particles, does not cause irritation.

Disadvantages:

• expanded polystyrene refers to vapor-proof materials, and therefore cannot be used to insulate wooden walls;
• the insulation is destroyed upon contact with solvents, drying oil, some types of varnishes, as well as under the influence of sunlight;
• soundproofing properties are much lower than that of mineral wool insulation;
• already at + 30 degrees, polystyrene foam begins to emit harmful substances - toluene, styrene, formaldehyde and others. When burning, the amount of toxic emissions increases significantly.

On the domestic market, domestic-made EPSPs - "Penoplex" and "Tepleks", as well as expanded polystyrene insulation of the brands Ursa, GREENPLEX, PRIMAPLEX are in great demand.

Styrofoam prices

Styrofoam

Cellulose insulation

Cellulose insulation, also called ecowool, is made from paper waste and waste paper. Ecowool is 80% cellulose fibers, the remaining 20% \u200b\u200bare antiseptics and fire retardants. The material is densely packed into all irregularities and voids and forms a dense seamless coating with high vapor permeability. Installation of insulation is carried out in two ways - dry and wet-glue, and both options can be done either manually or using a special installation.

The dry method allows you to perform thermal insulation in a short time and immediately start finishing... But at the same time, the density of the coating will not be high enough, which will lead to shrinkage and the appearance of cold bridges. In addition, during dry blowing, a large amount of fine dust is formed and you have to work in a respirator.

The wet-glue method ensures better adhesion of the insulation to the base, the layer is much denser and more resistant to shrinkage, which guarantees the durability of the insulation. True, it takes time for the material to dry - from 2 to 3 days, and even more in cold or wet weather. And until the layer is completely dry, it is impossible to proceed with the finishing.

Benefits:

• environmental Safety;
• excellent heat and sound insulation properties;
• resistance to bacteria, fungi, insects;
• fire resistance;
• long service life;
• affordable price.

• tendency to shrinkage;
• high hygroscopicity;
• laboriousness of performing work by hand.

Polyurethane foam

Polyurethane foam, or polyurethane foam, belongs to the new generation of heaters and has improved characteristics compared to traditional materials. It is a liquid polymer mixture, which, after being applied to the surface, hardens and forms a durable coating with a cellular structure. The components are mixed immediately before starting work, and the finished solution is applied by spraying using a special installation.

Benefits:

• the liquid mixture easily fills all irregularities, cracks, recesses, it is conveniently applied in hard-to-reach places;
• the material retains heat well and muffles sounds;
• PPU is resistant to chemically aggressive substances, practically does not absorb water, withstands sudden temperature changes;
• can be applied to any type of surface - wood, concrete, brick, metal;
• the insulation is very light, therefore it does not require reinforcement of the bearing bases;
• the average service life is 25-30 years.

• polyurethane foam is destroyed by exposure to sunlight;
• spraying requires equipment and skills to work with it;
• PPU cannot be used in areas that are very hot;
• high cost of material and services of specialists.

Wall insulation technology

Thermal insulation of the facade can be done in different ways, depending on the type of insulation. But for all options, a high-quality preparation of the base is a prerequisite, because not a single insulation can stop the processes of destruction of wall materials. Consider the methods of insulation with mineral wool and polystyrene foam plates, as the most popular in frequent construction.

Mineral wool insulation

Exterior walls are cleaned of dirt, peeling plaster or paint. Cracks and problem areas are repaired, the places affected by the fungus must be treated. Small irregularities do not need to be eliminated - mineral wool insulation is mounted using a frame, so all defects will disappear inside. At the end, the walls are covered with a waterproof primer with antiseptic properties so that mold does not develop under the thermal insulation layer.

Step 1. The bars for the frame are cut to the desired length, treated with antiseptic impregnation on all sides and dried in air.

Council. The cross-section of the beams should be selected taking into account the thickness of the thermal insulation layer. That is, if slabs with a thickness of 50 mm are stacked in one row, the thickness of the frame should be 5-6 cm, with two-layer laying - at least 11 cm.In the first case, a bar with a section of 50x50 mm is suitable for the racks, in the second - a board of 40x110 mm, installed on the edge.

Step 2. On the walls, markings are made for the frame guides strictly according to the level, holes are drilled for fasteners and beams are installed. The distance between the posts should be 10-15 mm less than the width of the insulation plate. During the installation process, the location of the elements is controlled by the building level; if necessary, wooden linings are used under the timber so that all the racks are in the same plane.

Step 3... Insulation is inserted into the cells of the frame. To do this, the plates are slightly squeezed along the edges, pressed between the racks and released. The material spreads out on its own and fills the space tightly. The insulation must be inserted so that there are no gaps between the plates.

Step 4. After filling all the cells from above, the insulation must be closed with a windproof moisture-proof membrane. The membrane is laid with the marked side out, the canvases are arranged horizontally, starting from the bottom. A construction stapler is used to fix the membrane. The top sheet is laid with an overlap of 8-10 cm, and it is recommended to glue the joints with tape.

Step 5... Over the membrane, wooden slats of counter-lattice 30-40 mm thick are stuffed to ensure an air gap. If this is not done, condensation will accumulate on the insulation, moisture will saturate wooden frame and the structure will deteriorate faster.

After that, it remains only to mount topcoat, for example, siding or corrugated board. The finish must completely cover the thermal insulation layer so that no precipitation falls on the plates. Only under such conditions will the material last a long time and effectively.

Last step - decorative finishing facade

Warming with expanded polystyrene

This method of insulation is noticeably different from the previous one. First, the base must be leveled so that the material adheres tightly to the surface. Secondly, the installation is carried out without lathing, the plates are attached with glue and dowels-fungi.

Step 1. The prepared walls are covered with a primer with quartz sand, for example, Betokontakt. If the substrate is porous, the primer is applied in 2 layers.

Step 2. Determine the lower border of the thermal insulation and draw a horizontal line around the perimeter of the house. Drill holes for dowels according to the marking with a step of 20-30 cm and fix the starting plate.

Starter bar fixed

Step 3. You will need special glue to fix the insulation. It is possible to use assembly adhesive in cylinders, for example, TYTAN STYRO 753, or dry adhesive mixture (Ceresit CT 83). The mixture is diluted in clean water according to the manufacturer's instructions, mixed until homogeneous with a mixer at low speed.

Take the first sheet, apply glue from the back in a continuous strip along the perimeter and in the center. Next, they apply insulation to the wall, resting the lower edge on the starting profile, check the location with a level, press firmly against the base.

Step 4. The entire row is fixed, tightly joining the sheets together. The next row starts with half of the sheet to offset the vertical seams. Excess glue protruding at the joints is carefully removed with a spatula.

Step 5. When the glue hardens, each sheet must be fixed with disc dowels. To do this, carefully drill holes in the wall through the insulation, insert the dowels and carefully hammer them in with a hammer. One sheet requires 5 fasteners - in each corner and in the center.

Step 6. Next, the glue solution is kneaded, applied in a continuous layer to the insulation, a reinforcing fiberglass mesh is laid on top and immersed in the solution. Openings and corners are additionally reinforced with corner profiles.

When the solution dries, the surface is sanded, dedusted and plastered with a thin layer. Now all that remains is to paint the facade or apply decorative plaster.

Ceresit glue prices

Ceresit glue

Video - Materials for wall insulation outside

Video - Insulation of the facade with penoplex

Content

Not only comfort, but also people's health depends on the microclimate in the house. The optimum temperature for living quarters is 20–25 ° C, and the humidity level is 50–60%. If winters are harsh, a significant portion of the heat energy is emitted through walls, roofs, doorways and windows. To retain heat as much as possible, wall structures must be insulated.

Choosing insulation for the walls of the house outside

It is recommended to insulate a private house from the outside, since internal insulation has many disadvantages. Insulation for exterior walls of a house is not uncommon on the market. Therefore, in order to select a quality material, it is enough to take into account when choosing technical specifications and installation features. This allows you to select the ideal thermal insulation.

The principles of insulation of the outer walls of the house

It is important to understand why facade insulation is a priority over thermal insulation of residential premises from the inside. There are situations when it is not possible to install heat-insulating material and external finishing of the building outside, in these cases, internal insulation is the only possible option.

The problem lies in the location of the "dew point" - the place where heat meets cold, which provokes condensation. And in a living room, moisture in the air is always present due to the vapors of bodies, respiration, and the use of water for domestic needs.

The dew point in a non-insulated wall is located approximately in the middle of the building envelope. This means that the wall draws in moisture from the side of the room. If you mount the insulation on the inner surface of the walls, the structure will freeze through and the slightest access of warm moist air behind the insulation layer will lead to condensation - the wall will get wet under the insulation.

Experts say that it is better to insulate the house from the outside. In this case, the wall structures will be isolated from contact with cold air, as a result of which the walls will not freeze. Depending on the insulation technology used from the outside, moist warm air that passes through the wall:

• will not come into contact with the cold one, since the insulating layer is mounted directly on the wall structure;
• gets into the ventilation gap between the wall and the heat insulator, the moisture will quickly evaporate, due to which there will be no conditions for the wall to get wet - with external insulation, the dew point is located outside the structure.

To choose the best option for external insulation, you need to take into account the characteristics of the materials from which the house is built, as well as the technical characteristics of heat insulators.

Heat insulator properties

Thermal insulation with mineral glass wool

Insulation for a house, regardless of the type of building, is characterized by a low thermal conductivity. But heat insulators are compared not only by this parameter. It is equally important to evaluate other characteristics that affect the durability, safety and functional properties of the material for external insulation:

• vapor permeability and water absorption indicators;
• impact on the microclimate of the room;
• resistance to aggressive environments;
• fire resistance;
• environmental friendliness and safety for health;
• resistance to biological damage (mold, rodents, insects);
• physical and mechanical parameters (including tendency to shrinkage, resistance to mechanical stress, elasticity, etc.);
• noise-absorbing properties;
• installation technology and ease of work;
• the ability to create a seamless thermal insulation coating;
• the ability to use on surfaces of complex configuration with a large number of hard-to-reach places;
• strength and durability of the service life.

When designing wall insulation, it is necessary to calculate the thickness of the thermal insulation layer using the thermal conductivity value of the selected material. Pay attention to the indicators of water absorption and vapor permeability of the insulation, because they affect the technology of installation work.

Types of heat insulators

Examples of different heat insulators

There are various types of wall insulation on the market, each of which has its own advantages. Thermal insulation of the facade is most often carried out using:

• foam (expanded polystyrene);
• extruded polystyrene foam (polystyrene foam, EPS, extruded expanded polystyrene);
• sprayed polyurethane foam;
• mineral wool (basalt);
• liquid thermal insulation.

Good thermal insulation should be chosen taking into account the material from which the wall was erected, as well as the planned option for external decoration.

Styrofoam

Thermal insulation of external walls with foam

Expanded polystyrene plates are actively used for external thermal insulation of building structures. Advantages of polymer material: low weight, easy installation, moisture resistance, affordable price. In addition, the heat insulator does not become a shelter for fungus and is not damaged by pests. If you prevent UV light from getting on the insulation, the material will last more than 50 years.

At the same time, the material also has a number of serious drawbacks - it is flammable, it is easily damaged by rodents. At a density less than 35 kg / m3, the foam has a loose structure, and it is vapor-permeable due to the pores between interconnected foamed polymer granules. The denser the material, the higher its thermal insulation properties.

Extruded polystyrene foam

Warming with expanded polystyrene

EPPS, penoplex is a foamed polymer material with a closed-cell structure. Polymer heaters for thermal insulation of a house have the same advantages, but extruded polystyrene foam differs from foam plastic for the better:

• low flammability (combustion is supported only with constant contact with the flame, in the absence of a fire source, the material self-extinguishes);
• vapor tightness;
• resistance to damage by rodents.

EPPS is widely used as an external insulation, if graphite nanoparticles are used in its production, the material has higher energy-saving properties and strength.

Sprayed polyurethane foam

Example of thermal insulation with sprayed polyurethane foam

PPU is a heat-insulating material with a closed-cell structure. Due to the fact that 90% of the weight is air enclosed in cells, modern insulation is characterized by low thermal conductivity.

PPU is resistant to biological damage, does not spread combustion, due to its low weight, such wall insulation does not load structures and the foundation base. The material is moisture and gas tight, provides a hermetic coating.

The spray method allows the use of polyurethane foam to create a seamless elastic thermal insulation on surfaces of any configuration. Polyurethane foam has high adhesion and reliably adheres to any type of base - wood, brick and block structures.

The disadvantages of PPU include the high cost and the need to use professional equipment during installation.

Mineral wool

Thermal insulation of walls with mineral wool

Fibrous materials for wall insulation outside are stone wool, slag wool, glass wool. The type of mineral wool depends on the raw materials used. They can be waste glass production and metallurgical industry, melt of stone (basalt) rocks.

In order to choose the right mineral wool heat insulator, it should be borne in mind that slag wool is not environmentally friendly, it is better for it to insulate non-residential buildings. Glass wool tends to cake over time, losing its thermal insulation properties. The ideal option is basalt wool, which holds its shape well, does not burn, is easy to install, dampens sound waves, is not afraid of biological damage and is durable.

Basalt wool can be used to insulate walls from building blocks, bricks, timber. Facade insulation works are carried out at any temperature.

The fibrous material is vapor-permeable and capable of absorbing moisture, which requires its reliable vapor barrier when installing internal insulation and external thermal insulation under the skin. Moisture condensation reduces the thermal insulation properties of the material.

However, vapor permeability - useful property, if thermal insulation of external walls made of "breathing" materials is carried out using the "under plaster" technology. In such a situation, moist warm air from the room passes through the mineral wool and is removed outside, and a favorable microclimate remains in the house.

Liquid insulation

Applying liquid thermal insulation

Liquid insulation is an innovative material for insulating wall structures from the outside. It is used for the processing of metal structural elements (prevents the occurrence of cold bridges), as well as for the insulation of walls made of foam blocks, bricks, wood.

The ceramic multicomponent composition visually looks like paint, but has a porous structure with vacuum voids. The total volume of voids reaches 80% of the material, due to which thermal insulation properties are provided.

The list of material advantages includes:

• the integrity of the coating, no seams;
• an easy way to apply to the walls from the outside (using a roller, brush or vacuum spray);
• the ability to use on surfaces of any configuration;
• resistance of the heat-shielding layer to external influences (high and low temperatures, moisture, ultraviolet light, mechanical damage);
• decorative appearance (the building does not need finishing on top of the insulating layer);
• protection of structures (protects metal from corrosion, wood - from UV radiation and moisture);
• resistance to biological damage.

With the help of liquid thermal insulation, you can successfully insulate the facade of a residential private house, an outbuilding, an industrial facility.

External insulation methods

The materials used to insulate a house from the outside are mostly universal and suitable for wall structures built from any materials. But it is important to understand how the insulation will affect the ability of the wall to "breathe" with a particular installation technology. Pay attention to the exterior finish on the outside of the insulation. As a rule, plaster, facade panels, siding, facing bricks are used.

There are three main ways to insulate a building from the outside:

• fastening the heat insulator under the plaster;
• arrangement of an unventilated three-layer system;
• installation of a ventilated facade.

The application of a liquid heat-insulating composition has not yet become widespread.

Wall insulation for plaster

Wall "cake" with mineral wool insulation

For installation under plaster, plate heaters are used for the outer walls of the house. The material is attached with special glue and umbrella fasteners to the aligned walls ( wooden structures pretreated with an antiseptic). Sheathing elements are mounted “at a distance” so that there are no long joint seams.

Then plaster is applied with the obligatory use of mesh for reinforcement. To prevent the plaster layer from falling off the polymer insulation over time, it is recommended to abrade its smooth surface for better adhesion and use a plaster material with high adhesion.

When choosing a heat insulator, it is important to consider:

• If you use foam or extruded polystyrene foam as an insulation material, the house turns into a thermos, since these materials are vapor-proof. To prevent the walls from getting damp from the inside, an effective exhaust ventilation must be provided in the house.
• By using mineral wool, you will maintain the vapor permeability of the wall, but provided that the plaster is not painted with acrylic paint, as it creates a film.

Non-ventilated three-layer system

Wall section when installing a non-ventilated three-layer system

It is used if the wall material is brick or blocks. The procedure for wall insulation when installing a three-layer non-ventilated system:

• any type of heat insulator is attached to the wall using glue or spray;
• with an indent for the air gap, the external facing of the house is mounted from decorative bricks.

If you insulate a house using this technology with foam polymer, you need to take care of good ventilation, as the walls stop "breathing". The advantages of the technology include the ability to create a beautiful brick facade of the house. It is also possible to mount facade panels.

Ventilated facade

Insulation of walls with a ventilated facade

The most common option provides for the possibility of covering the house with siding, decorative panels, clapboard. The material for thermal insulation of the facade can be mineral wool, EPS boards, foam.

The construction of the "pie" is as follows:

• lathing of boards to create a ventilation gap;
• fastening of waterproofing and vapor barrier;
• lathing (on boards) for laying a heat insulator;
• insulation in the resulting sections;
• windproof film;
• counter grill to create an air gap;
• finishing with the selected material.

Note! A common mistake is to install waterproofing directly on the wall of the house. In this case, the vapor permeability of the structure is lost.

Conclusion

To prevent the wall to be insulated from the outside damp and not covered with mold, it is required to use technology that does not violate its vapor permeability, or it is necessary to mount a high-quality ventilation system.