There are many different types of insulation to choose from in South Africa. There are a couple of things to consider before you buy one of the products. In this article, we will cover some of the best insulation products to use on your residential property in South Africa.
Things to consider when choosing types of insulation:
- Where it will be installed. Ceiling, walls or underfloor.
- The R-value and density of each product.
In order to achieve the highest thermal performance, the product will need to be properly installed. The installation makes a huge difference in getting the most out of the products ability to restrict heat flow. Furthermore, using a professional installer is the best option. A company with experience is what you are looking for. Additionally, references for the company you have selected to install the product must be checked.
View our full range of products: 135mm | 100mm | 75mm | 50mm
Evaluate the installation
Check the installation properly after completion. It must fit snugly around any components that protrude through the product. Additionally, things like cables, wiring or electrical boxes. Check the depth of products that have been sprayed in. The depth will need to be measured. Add more roof insulation until the depth has reached a satisfactory level.
DIY installation
As a DIY project, gaps must not be left in any of the areas that have been insulated. Furthermore, the instructions from the manufacturer should be read. Check things like the safety precautions and the local building codes is a good place to start. Make sure you are capable of installing a product.
When selecting a product, make sure to select a one that is compliant with the SANS 10400-xa building laws. As a matter of fact, if you live in Johannesburg or Western Cape you should be using the 135mm products. Durban can use 100mm products where it doesn’t get too cold.
Reflective Insulation – Types of insulation
Materials with reflective properties are used to resist radiant heat flow. This happens because of its high reflectivity and it also has low emissivity (ability to re-radiate heat). Additionally, reflective insulation relies on a 25mm layer of air next to the shiny surface. Heat flow through the product changes, depending on which way the heat is flowing through the product.
Reflective insulation is an aluminium foil (shiny) laminated to plastic or paper and comes in long rolls. When the dust settles on the reflective surface it slowly starts to reduce its performance. Always face the reflective surfaces downwards or keep them vertical. Additionally, with single-sided foil the antiglare surface should always face outwards or upwards.
Reflective insulation R-values are supplied as up and down values. Depending on where and how the reflective product is installed will change the products total R-value. As a matter of fact, make sure system values given by the manufacturer relate to your situation.
- 45% on cooling and heating energy can be saved with insulation
- 20% additional cooling and heating energy with wall bulk insulation
- 5% on winter costs with the right floor product used on your home