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Insulation

11 min read

Window Caulking: A Guaranteed Seal

Insulation

11 min read

Window Caulking: A Guaranteed Seal

InsulationWindows and doorsWindow Caulking: A Guaranteed Seal

When contemplating about insulating a house or condo, window insulation is rarely at the forefront of our minds. However, every year, in Quebec, energy costs related to poorly insulated window joints are valued at $417 out of the $1,460 spent. 

That’s 30% of your energy budget that’s just gone out the window. However, all of that can change with properly insulated window joints. The above-mentioned financial losses are far from being the only ramification of poorly insulated windows

 

What Are the Ramifications of a Poorly Insulated Window?

Water condensation requiring an insulated window joint

Source: Canva

There are plenty, and Zein Chehadeh of MAG-MTL Projects Inc. best filled us in on some of these when he sat down with us and stated that “a poorly insulated window will have a lot of ramifications, including poor [thermal, Ed.] insulation and poor soundproofing.”

And it doesn’t end here. According to him, there are at least 5 ramifications: air leaks, weak thermal insulation, poor soundproofing, condensation buildup, and mould growth.

 

Air Leaks

When it comes to window thermal insulation, there are two elements that should be factored into the pressure drop between the inside and outside of our home:

  • Temperature difference;

  • Wind force.

 

Temperature Difference & Air Density

The temperature, to which humidity levels are combined, directly influences air density:

Temperature (measured in °C & °F)

Air mass at 100% humidity

Air mass at 1% humidity

-10°C/14°F

1.340

1.341

0°C/32°F

1.289

1.292

10°C/50°F

1.241

1.247

20°C/68°F

1.194

1.204

30°C/86°F

1.146

1.164

40°C/104°F

1.096

1.127

 

This difference in density between the indoor and outdoor air masses results in what is referred to as the "stack effect." The heavier air mass will move towards the lighter air mass, much like the way water flows from one container to another. 

As a result, if your house is kept at a toasty 20°C (68°F) during the winter, when it’s -10°C (14°F) outside, the cold outside air, which is heavier, will seep into your dwelling.

On the other hand, during the summer, the refreshing 20°C (68°F) temperature inside your house will flow outside if the temperature is higher, like 30°C (86°F) for example. It’s all about communicating vessels.

As such, for a 10-metre high house, and an inside-and-outside temperature difference of 10°C (14°F), the stack effect will be 4 Pa (pascal). This usually happens during summertime.

For the same reason, a temperature difference of 30°C (86°F) between the inside and the outside will result in a 13 Pa stack effect. This unit will increase based on the height of the building since warm air is lighting than cold air. 

 

Wind Force

The above-mentioned values failed to take into account the wind force, which can profoundly change the pressure value. Thus, for a wind speed of 18 km/h (11 mph), the pressure exerted on the building's façade exposed to wind is 15 Pa, while the unexposed areas are subjected to a low pressure of 5 to 10 Pa.

In other words, if your windows are poorly insulated, your house will rapidly become the centre focus of drafts. 

 

Poor Thermal Insulation

As you’ve gathered from our brief overview of air masses: During the winter, you’re warming up the exterior atmosphere, and during the summer, you’re cooling it. Might as well point out that you’re literally throwing cash out the window. 

The environmental and financial impacts are so important that our neighbours across the pond (France), have, for example, set up a so-called CEE (White Certificates), which have led to more than 3 million window replacements since 2011, including those of their Senate. 

This shows how pressing the topic of thermal insulation is nowadays, when energy consumption is the focal point of all concerns. 

 

Little Soundproofing

As Chehadeh mentioned, windows with faulty or no insulation joints have very weak soundproofing abilities. 

A substandard window will only reduce exterior sounds seeping into your house by 26 to 28 decibels. On a decibel scale, 30 dB is comparable to a quiet bedroom. With such windows, outside sounds are almost as loud as if they were in your house. 

A high-end, double-pane window with joint insulation reduces noise levels to 40 decibels, which amounts to the average noise a moviegoer might emit. 

 

More Condensation

This is another serious problem that results from poorly insulated windows. In Quebec, condensation is especially prevalent in homes with poorly insulated windows since it usually occurs during the winter.

And that’s why the Canadian government encourages its citizens to invest in Energy Star-certified windows, meaning windows that have the following:

  • Triple panes;

  • Fitted with an anti-condensation coating;

  • Inert gas between the glass panes;

  • Quality spacers;

  • Insulated frames and sashes;

  • Extensively waterproof.

The whole lot is designed to better fight against a serious problem that we’ve already broached in a previous article: mould.

 

Mould Growth

Chehadeh draws the perfect parallel between condensation and mould: 

“Substandard window insulation will result in more condensation, which will, in turn, facilitate mould growth.”

In fact, mould growth in homes can cause health problems such as asthma, or much more serious illnesses in cases involving individuals with an immune deficiency. Among other things, mycetoma is, in immunocompromised individuals, a disease caused by the presence of mould spores in the lungs.

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How to Calculate Window Insulation Value

window insulation joint methods

Source: Canva

Before going over the various features offered with window insulation joints, let’s clarify the constraints these face, and how they’re measured.

To understand window insulation levels, you first need to consider two things: the window joints and the window itself.

 

Joint Thermal Efficiency

Windows are naturally subject to air pressure, which will vary between 50 and 600 Pa, and amount to a 5 to 60 kg/m² pressure, or 11 Lb to 132 Lb/sq. ft. So, what’s the reason behind such a variation? Well, because it correlates to 32 to 111 km/h winds, which equals 20 to 69 mph. 

Like a structure’s façade, windows are exposed to severe constraints, which directly affect the joints. Therefore, the thermal permeability is measured in m³/(h x m x Pa2/3). This ratio shows the cubic metres of air that penetrate a joint per hour and per joint metre, according to a pressure difference of 1 Pa. It's then used to determine the heat loss value, measured in W/m²K.

If you’re unfamiliar with K-value, continue on to the section down below.

 

Window K-Value

It’s a window's thermal conductivity value, measured in W/(m²K). A window, made up of a sash, a glass pane, as well as a screen, has a good thermal conductivity value when it’s measured somewhere between 1.1 and 0.6 W/m²K. 

This value can take into account up to 12 different factors, which ultimately correspond to the window’s overall thermal conductivity value (glass pane, frame, screen, etc.) divided by their total surface area. 

As such, not all materials are the same, as depicted in the chart below:

Material

Thermal conductivity [W/mk]

Standard K-value [W/m²K] for a window sash

Standard K-value [W/m²K] for a window

Wood

0.12

2.1 -3.1

1.5 - 2.8

Aluminum

220

5.0 - 6.6 (thermally insulated)

1.9 - 3.3

PVC plastic

0.16

2.3 - 3.9

1.7 - 2.9

 

 

Various Sealants & Their Features

Installation a sealing window joint

Source: Canva

There are at least 5 different types of window insulation materials, and each has its pros and cons. As such, we've outlined their characteristics to help you choose between silicone, polyurethane, acrylic, MS polymer, latex, and hybrid sealants.

 

Caulking Silicone

Silicone is a white sealant made of silicon and methyl chloride. It’s:

  • Stretchy;

  • Resistant to adverse weather;

  • Easy to apply;

  • Adhesive;

  • Cheap.

It’s available under three formulas: neutral, ascetic, and aqueous.

Ascetic formulations have a vinegar-like odour while curing. Like neutral formulations, they're ideal for glass surfaces. The aqueous formulation will work fine when applied to a damp or wet surface.

Silicone sealants have a shelf life of over 20 years and are virtually unaffected by temperature variations, which is ideal for sealing windows in Canada, where the temperature fluctuation varies greatly from one season to the next.

Silicone sealants also have downsides:

  • Have to be applied in dry temperatures above 0°C (32°F);

  • Rendered useless when submerged or in stagnant water;

  • Can’t be painted;

  • Can stain stone and mirrors;

  • Will yellow when lacking UV exposure.

Hence, never use silicone sealant on a stone surface. The oily nature of the sealant can seep into the stone and discolour it. However, you can use sealants that were specially designed for this type of material.

 

Polyurethane Sealants

Polyurethane sealants are found in three formats: putty, foam, and tape.

They have plenty of advantages over silicone. The following are listed below:

  • Water and submersion proof;

  • Flexible;

  • Can be applied to plastic, glass, stainless steel, soil, etc.;

  • UV ray resistant;

  • 20-year shelf life.

They also have downsides, most notably:

  • Temperature fluctuation sensitivity (hardens during winter, softens during summer);

  • Can harden and crack over time;

  • Toxic isocyanate-based.

 

Acrylic Sealant

It's a mix of acrylic resins designed to fill in expansion joints or cracks. These sealants have a lot of advantages: they can be painted, are odourless while curing, and are easy to smooth out when first applied.

However, compared to silicone, acrylic sealants have a lot more downsides:

  • Less flexible;

  • Not as adhesive;

  • Not as waterproof;

  • Also has to be applied during dry temperatures above 0°C (32°F);

  • Have to be painted if applied outside.

 

MS Polymer Sealants

Consists of polymer and silane compounds that are also intended to render joints waterproof, benefiting from the fact that they're: 

  • Supple;

  • Stretchy;

  • Compatible with water-based paints;

  • Devoid of isocyanates;

  • Can be applied to damp surfaces and all types of materials.

However, MS polymer sealants also have downsides. As such, this material doesn’t age well when exposed to UV rays and doesn’t usually adhere well to solvent-based paints. 

 

Latex Sealants

Latex-sealed window joints are made using a water-based compound, and it has a lot of advantages. This type of product is cheap, can be painted, and is ideal for an aesthetic finish. 

However, it isn't made for outdoor use. 

 

Hybrid Sealants

Hybrid sealants are compounds that combine both polyurethane and silicone. As such, it’s designed to blend the advantages of both types of caulking. However, it's still very new in the construction industry. Therefore, there’s yet to be any feedback regarding this type of sealant.

 

Waterproofing Membranes

If sealants have yet to convince you that they're effective window joint insulation materials, you can also turn to another solution: window membranes. 

Such material is an elastomeric covering that’s installed around the perimeter of the window, which acts as a thermal insulator. The membrane also acts as a water leak prevention tool. For this reason, it's always paired with the installation of flashing with a drip edge.

 

Price Range for Window Insulation Materials

Applying a window sealing joint

Source: Canva

Cost of Silicone Sealant

For a 2.7 oz (roughly 81 ml) tube of silicone sealant, expect to pay $20. Some retailers carry multi-pack kits, which can be purchased for as little as $12 apiece. 

Which amounts to $4.44/oz.

 

Cost of Polyurethane Sealant

As for polyurethane sealant tubes, these go for about $35 for 10.01 oz (about 300ml). They’re cheaper than silicone sealants. 

Which amounts to $3.46/oz. 

 

Cost of Acrylic Sealants

The cost of acrylic sealants varies between that of silicone and polyurethane sealants; for a 14.5 oz (about 435ml) tube, the price is around $55. 

Which amounts to $3.79/oz.

 

Cost of MS Polymer Sealant 

This is the most expensive window sealant product mentioned. For two 19.3 oz (580 ml) tubes, expect to pay a little under 120 dollars.

Which amounts to $6.22/oz.

 

Cost of Latex Sealant

Latex sealant is, by far, the cheapest option. 10 oz tubes (about 300 ml) go for less than $5 apiece.

Which amounts to $0.50/oz.

 

Cost of a Hydrid Covering

You can purchase hybrid coverings for less than a silicone or polyurethane sealant. In fact, you can buy 10.1 oz (304 ml) tubes for roughly $8. 

Which amounts to $1.26/oz.

 

Cost of a Window Waterproofing Membrane

Sold in roll form, you can find a 12-inch wide by 75 feet-long roll for less than $85. 

Cover photo source: Ozgu Ozden - Unsplash

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Last modified 2023-02-14

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SoumissionRenovation.ca 20 Sep 2023

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The overall recommended thermal resistance takes into account the combined thermal resistance of all material layers or poorly ventilated air or lack of ventilated air in a building’s wall. Note that these are minimal requirements, definitely not optimal. As part of the Novoclimat program, the requirements will be stricter for all above-grade building parts. Exterior Wall Insulation Standards The recommended value for above-grade exterior walls is R-24.5. Novoclimat’s recommended value for above-grade exterior walls is R-29. The simplest way to improve the energy efficiency of exterior walls is by installing insulation panels on the warm side of the wall. Since the work is done inside, the insulation value is increased and the walls are rendered draft-proofed, without ever touching the exterior siding. Ideally, this should be done during the renovation stage, as requirements can be met without demolishing the space and maintaining most of the original square footage. NOTE: The gaps between each panel must be meticulously sealed, and adding a vapour barrier may be needed if the chosen product doesn’t also fulfil that purpose. Attic and Roof Insulation Standards The recommended value for a roof is R-41.0 Novoclimat’s recommended value for a roof is R-51.0 In an attic, energy savings can be made by laying loose-fill insulation over the existing insulation materials. NOTE: Avoid obstructing vents or soffits located near the roof’s eaves. This could result in condensation and ice dams that could lead to material deterioration as well as impede the structure’s integrity. Foundation Insulation Standards The recommended value for foundation walls is R-17.0 The recommended value for basement floors is R-5.0 The recommended value for basement slabs is R-7.5 To improve a basement’s energy efficiency, insulating from the inside is also simpler. Rigid panels will be installed up against the concrete walls or batt insulation will be inserted between the structure’s studs held against the foundation walls. NOTE: Fibreglass insulation should never come into contact with concrete! The best product to insulate rim joists and a concrete foundation (basement or crawl space walls) is often a spray-applied polyurethane foam. This type of insulation must be covered by a gypsum panel post-application. A few exceptions or clarifications: A foundation wall that cloisters a heated space from a non-heated space, from outdoor air, or adjacent ground must have an overall thermal resistance of R-17.0, no matter where the building is located. A foundation wall with more than 50% surface exposure to outdoor air, as well as a part of a wood foundation wall, must have a total thermal resistance (RSIt) equal to that required for above-grade walls (R-24.5). A wood foundation wall must be insulated just like an above-grade wall would be, no matter the surface area exposed to outdoor air. For composite foundation walls, the percentage of surface space exposed to outdoor air has to be calculated for all parts of a wall, and the RSIt value will apply solely to that specific part. Are you looking for experts for your insulation-related project? Fill in our form to be connected with top-rated contractors! What’s the best R-value to properly insulate a home? Source: Canva An R-value—or its metric equivalent: RSI value—is a material’s thermal resistance coefficient. The higher the R-value, the more effectively a specific material will be able to impede heat flow, which is what defines thermal resistance. When referring to insulation, we often tend to forget that the total R-value accounts for the whole of the materials present in the building’s composition, rather than solely the ones considered in the “insulation” material category. Most building materials like wood, concrete, exterior siding and cladding, plaster, etc., have a significant impact on thermal performance, no matter how small it might be. When considering a house as a whole, it’s currently recommended to opt for an 80 Energuide rating with air barrier certification. Using the current building methods (concrete walls poured into an insulated form, spray polyurethane foam, etc.) makes reaching an 84 Energuide rating possible, 90 even, while also ensuring a permanent air barrier. What’s the R-value of insulation materials? When it comes to insulation, the chosen material is key. While almost all insulation materials can be put to the test in new constructions—as long as it was planned ahead of time—with residential renovations, the four most commonly used insulation types are loose-fill, batt, rigid panels, and spray foam. Here’s a list of thermal resistance coefficients for various insulation materials: Insulation materials Thermal resistance value Fibreglass or mineral wool R-3.5 Rockwool R-4.0 Extruded polystyrene (type 2-3-4) R-5.0 Expanded polystyrene (type 2) ≈ R-4 Polyurethane (type 1) ≈ R-5.2 per inch Polyurethane (type 2) ≈ R-6 per inch Polyisocyanurate (PIR) ≈ R-6 per inch Cellulose insulation ≈ R-3.5 per inch Blow-in fibreglass ≈ R-3 per inch Straw ≈ R-35 per bale Cotton ≈ R-3.8 Wood fibre ≈ R-3.3 Spray polyurethane foam ≈ R-6 Half-inch HD fibreboard ≈ R-1.5 7/16 inch OSB panel ≈ R-0.7 Gypsum ≈ R-0.44 Ensuring the Thermal Efficiency of a Building Source: Canva In Quebec, the thermal resistance standards to meet, when it comes to a new building or extending an existing structure, obviously differ. In most municipalities, these values add up to R-41 for roofs, R-24.5 for above-grade walls, and R-17 for foundation walls. Although we previously stated the recommended energy efficiency, a regular house will typically have an R-value ranging between 30 and 50. (For new homes, this number will increase to R-60.) During a renovation process, reaching such targets is often very challenging—maybe even impossible. However, homeowners should still aim for these figures, especially if their heating expenses are rather high. Quebec’s Insulation Standards: Ensuring Sustainable and Comfortable Buildings Quebec’s insulation standards, as stipulated by the Construction Code, play a vital role in building sustainable, comfortable, energy-efficient structures. These ensure buildings that: Resist Quebec’s harsh weather conditions Minimize energy loss And provide pleasant indoor environments These standards result from careful consideration with the goal of improving the quality of life for citizens while also contributing to limiting the carbon footprint. As such, by adhering to current standards, we’re not only fulfilling legal construction requirements but we’re also making a tangible step toward a future built on preserving the environment.

7 min read

SoumissionRenovation.ca 20 Sep 2023

What Are the Different Ways to Insulate a Garage Ceiling?

A garage ceiling can be insulated using several types of insulation materials. If you’re having a hard time wrapping your head around which ones, rest assured, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we compared 14 different materials based on their thermal characteristics. So not only will you find the most insulating materials, but you’ll also find those that are most compatible with the insulation method that you may want to carry out at home. How to Choose the Best Insulation Material for a Garage Ceiling Source: Canva To figure out which insulation materials are best for a garage ceiling, we looked at 14 different materials based on the following 5 thermal characteristics: Thermal conductivity (K-value) Thermal resistance (R-value) Diffusivity Effusivity Thermal lag (in hours) Before we get ahead of ourselves, here’s a list of the best garage insulation materials: Rank Material 1 Polyurethane (latest technology) 2 Extruded polystyrene (common) 3 Expanded polystyrene (common) 4 Cork (natural) 5 Rockwool (loose-fill) 6 Polyurethane (common) 7 Expanded polystyrene (high-density) 8 Expanded cork 9 Rockwool (medium-density) 10 Expanded cork (loose-fill) 11 Extruded polystyrene (XPS HFC) 12 Extruded polystyrene (XPS) 13 Expanded polystyrene (medium-density) 14 Rockwool (low-density) Now, let’s take a closer look at the different insulation material values: R-Value (for an 8-inch thickness) An R-value stands for a material’s thermal resistance coefficient and is based on two factors: Thickness Thermal conductivity A material’s thermal conductivity is quantified by a numerical value, and the lower that value is, the better the material’s insulation properties are. However, thermal resistance, measured by the R-value is quite the opposite: the higher the R-value, the better the insulation performance. Rank Insulation material Conductivity R-value 1 Polyurethane (latest technology) 0.025 8.05 2 Extruded polystyrene (common) 0.031 6.5 3 Expanded polystyrene (common) 0.035 5.7 4 Polyurethane (common) 0.035 5.7 5 Expanded polystyrene (high-density) 0.040 5 6 Expanded cork (loose-fill) 0.040 5 7 Cork (natural) 0.040 5 8 Extruded polystyrene (XPS HFC) 0.040 5 9 Extruded polystyrene (XPS) 0.042 4.8 10 Rockwool (medium-density) 0.044 4.55 11 Rockwool (low-density) 0.050 4 12 Expanded polystyrene (medium-density) 0.052 3.8 13 Rockwool (loose-fill) 0.060 3.3 14 Expanded cork 0.090 2.2 Are you looking for experts for your insulation project? Fill in our form to be connected with top-rated contractors! Thermal Diffusivity and Effusivity Thermal diffusivity and effusivity are significant thermal properties to consider when choosing an insulation material meant for a garage ceiling. By selecting a material with decent thermal properties, you’re in turn ensuring that your garage is efficiently insulation and safeguarded. Thermal diffusivity Thermal diffusivity is a material’s capacity to transmit heat through conduction. An excellent thermal diffusivity is typically indicated by a value below 0.2, whereas a value exceeding 1 is considered exceptionally poor. Rank Insulation Material Diffusivity 1 Expanded cork 0.16 2 Cork (natural) 0.17 3 Expanded cork (loose-fill) 0.27 4 Extruded polystyrene (common) 0.63 5 Polyurethane (latest technology) 0.64 6 Rockwool (medium-density) 0.61 7 Polyurethane (common) 0.71 8 Extruded polystyrene (XPS) 0.83 9 Extruded polystyrene (XPS HFC) 0.86 10 Expanded polystyrene (high-density) 0.97 11 Expanded polystyrene (common) 1.20 12 Rockwool (loose-fill) 1.46 13 Rockwool (low-density) 2.20 14 Expanded polystyrene (medium-density) 2.99 Thermal effusivity As for thermal effusivity, it indicates a material’s ability to transmit heat through radiation. The lower the effusivity coefficient, the better the insulation material is. As such, a value above 1,000 suggests poor insulation capabilities in a material, while a value below 35 indicates excellent insulation properties. Rank Insulation material Effusivity 1 Expanded polystyrene (medium-density) 30.08 2 Expanded polystyrene (high-density) 30.60 3 Expanded polystyrene (common) 31.86 4 Polyurethane (latest technology) 32.49 5 Rockwool (low-density) 33.66 6 Extruded polystyrene (common) 38.97 7 Polyurethane (common) 41.41 8 Extruded polystyrene (XPS HFC) 43.08 9 Extruded polystyrene (XPS) 46.17 10 Rockwool (loose-fill) 49.72 11 Rockwool (medium-density) 56.32 12 Expanded cork (loose-fill) 76.94 13 Cork (natural) 96.18 14 Expanded cork 227.68 Thermal Lag Thermal lag refers to the time period (delay) during which an insulation material can inhibit heat transfer. Rank Insulation material Thermal lag (hr) 1 Expanded cork 16 2 Cork (natural) 15 3 Expanded cork (loose-fill) 12 4 Rockwool (medium-density) 8 5 Extruded polystyrene (common) 8 6 Polyurethane (latest technology) 8 7 Polyurethane (common) 7 8 Extruded polystyrene (XPS) 7 9 Extruded polystyrene (XPS HFC) 7 10 Expanded polystyrene (high-density) 6 11 Expanded polystyrene (common) 6 12 Rockwool (loose-fill) 5 13 Rockwool (low-density) 4 14 Expanded polystyrene (medium-density) 3 What are the best materials to insulate a garage ceiling? Source: Canva Polyurethane made from the latest technology and extruded polystyrene are, without a doubt, the best materials to insulate a garage ceiling. However, if you’re looking to solely use eco-friendly materials in your home, cork is your best bet. Learn more about the best garage ceiling insulation materials down below. Polyurethane panel or polystyrene panel? It all depends on the quality of the polyurethane material. If you come across polyurethane with a thermal conductivity of 0.026 rather than 0.035, it indicates that it’s a cutting-edge polyurethane technology; it’s more efficient than a polystyrene panel. Otherwise, polystyrene will be a way better insulation material. Moreso because you can choose extruded polystyrene, or even better yet, expanded polystyrene. Polystyrene and polyurethane panels have the added bonus of being aesthetically pleasing, while also cutting back on drywall use. Rockwool Mineral wools are far from the most efficient insulation, but they do have one significant advantage: their flexibility. It isn’t uncommon to see piping snaking through a garage ceiling. Therefore, rockwool is the perfect material. Since it’s very malleable, it can easily be slipped between pipes. As a result, you won’t need to install drop ceiling tiles to properly insulate your garage, which turns into significant space gain. Vapour barrier A vapour barrier is a must if your garage happens to be below a living space. Typically, the vapour barrier will be a part of the living space's flooring insulation system. Cork As we’ve already mentioned in the first part of the article: cork is an excellent insulation material for green homes. It ranks just below polyurethane and polystyrene. However, cork has two issues: Requires installing drop ceiling tiles Isn’t made for winter Therefore, if your garage ceiling is rather low, cork may not be the best insulation material. Generally speaking, in Quebec, where winters are quite harsh, cork doesn’t typically hold its own. As a matter of fact, while it does have an exceptional thermal lag in terms of heat, its thermal conductivity and resistance (R-value) are deemed average. How to DIY a Garage Ceiling Insulation Source: Canva There are three methods used to install insulation material on a garage ceiling: Glue/screws Drop ceiling (drop tiles or self-supporting membrane) Spray You can base your decision on: Your preferred method The height of your garage The insulation material you’ve selected For example, should you decide to opt for a spray-in method, polyurethane is your only option. Whereas, with a drop ceiling, you can use mineral wools, polystyrene, or polyurethane. However, using the glue/screw method, for which the polystyrene panels are typically preferred, you’ll lose a significant amount of height in your garage. Concrete Garage Ceiling Insulation Tips Source: Canva Favour the following three insulation materials: Polyurethane insulation panels Extruded polystyrene insulation panels Cork If you’re not comfortable using the glue/screw installation method, note that a concrete garage ceiling can be insulated using spray polyurethane foam.

9 min read

SoumissionRenovation.ca 12 Sep 2023

How to Properly Insulate a Flat Roof

Ensuring that your flat roof is adequately insulated is a vital part of maintaining a comfortable temperature inside your home. Depending on your budget, you can insulate your roof from the inside or outside. However, to meet Novoclimat’s program requirements, you have to select the appropriate materials and correctly carry out their installation. Discover our advice for maintaining effective insulation and saving on your monthly energy expenses. Insulating Different Types of Flat Roofs Source: Canva Insulating a flat concrete roof Pouring a concrete slab onto a flat roof means benefiting from two concrete-specific characteristics: Waterproofing Diffusion resistance These qualities render the use of a waterproofing layer, like a vapour barrier, useful. However, it very much relies on whether the concrete was properly poured, meaning without any apparent cracks forming, and ensuring that the joints are adequately coated and sealed. And it doesn’t end here, as a flat roof’s concrete slab must be highly resistant to water infiltration. Should it be insulated over or under the slab? Flat roof insulation can either be laid above or under the concrete slab. When it’s laid above it, the roof itself is similar to an inverted flat roofing system. When the insulation material is laid under the concrete slab, a layer of gravel, or greenery, is added to protect the concrete from excessive temperature variations. However, when the insulation is placed beneath the concrete slab, long-term, humidity can seep in between the slab and the layer of insulation. Therefore, it’s best to also add a smart vapour barrier. The latter diffuses humidity one way while blocking it in the other. Traditional vapour barriers have limited potential to dry ambient air. As such, the moisture trapped between the layers can lead to mould growth issues. For this reason, insulating from the outside (warm roof insulation) is often preferred when working with concrete flat roofs. Insulating a timber flat roof Timber flat roof insulation can just as well be laid under or above the waterproofing layer. However, just like with concrete, it’s advised to lay the insulation material above the waterproofing layer. Otherwise, humidity-related issues can quickly arise. In fact, the matter of installing a ventilation system is often questioned and will be reiterated in further detail in the cold flat roofing system section of the article. In some countries, like England, timber flat roofs are vented. However, studies have shown that ventilating such roofs generates more humidity compared to non-ventilated roofs. This is actually the subject of a Danish study that questions the dew point. The dew point occurs when the temperature reaches the degree at which water vapour condenses and forms small droplets. The Danes have shown that a ventilated flat roof that was insulated from the inside presents humidity issues as soon as the dew point temperature rises above 11°C (52°F). Moreover, a dew point of 11°C occurs when the temperature inside a home reaches 20°C (68°F), while the relative humidity level (RH) hits 56%. Therefore, it’s best to lay the insulation material above the vapour barrier. Should you decide to add insulation above and under the vapour barrier, make sure the insulation laid beneath the vapour barrier isn’t thicker than a third of the roof’s overall thermal resistance. How to Insulate a Flat Roof for a Warm Roofing System With a warm roofing system, the insulation is installed from the outside, thereby creating a shared thermal boundary between the roof and the inside of the home. To do so, a vapour barrier is placed directly on the roof’s structure, effectively serving as the waterproofing layer. Above the vapour barrier, a layer of insulation is added, which can be made of: Rockwool Glass wool Lastly, an elastomeric or thermoplastic olefin membrane is stacked on as a top coat. Since the insulation is stuck to the vapour barrier, it further protects the structure against water infiltration and debris. Also, by having both insulation and a vapour barrier, thermal storage becomes a possibility. Therefore, heat is stored throughout the day, and later released at night, which limits the need for heating during winter. How to Insulate a Flat Roof for a Cold Roofing System A cold roof, often referred to as a vented roof, is designed as a two-part structure that enables air to circulate between the insulation layer on one side and the waterproofing layer on the other. This roofing system’s goal is to mitigate humidity buildup through effective ventilation. The one drawback with this type of ventilation is that it can lead to humidity seepage in two ways: Snow infiltration Moisture buildup inside the enclosed space The second point is especially recurrent as condensation occurs as soon as: The temperature in an area dips below the dew point The temperature outside changes suddenly To add to this, this type of roofing is expensive, which is why it isn’t commonly used. This is all the more true in Quebec, where inclement weather often contributes to mould growth with this kind of roof. Are you looking for experts for your insulation project? Fill in our form to be connected with top-rated contractors! How to Insulate a Flat Roof from the Inside or Outside Source: Canva Whether it be installed from the inside or outside, the first thing you need to ask yourself is, “Where should the insulation be installed?” In this specialized trade, three configurations should be considered, depending on where the flat roof’s waterproofing layer is positioned: Insulation beneath the waterproofing layer (cold roof) Insulation atop the waterproofing layer (inverted) Insulation around the waterproofing layer 1. Insulating under the waterproofing layer This is the most common configuration for flat roof insulation. The layers are stacked, bottom first, like so: Load-bearing structure Insulation Waterproofing There’s an alternative with timber flat roofs. With such a roofing system, the insulation is placed directly between the trusses. The insulation and structure make a single layer. This type of insulation method meant for flat roofs is especially used with cold roofing systems, which we’ll discuss further in this article. 2. Laying insulation above the waterproofing membrane Using this method, also referred to as “inverted roof insulation,” the waterproofing layer sits beneath the insulation. It thus protects the waterproofing layer from any weather-related damages. However, since the waterproofing doesn’t protect the insulation, the latter is subject to humidity and mould. Hence, an inverted roof insulation system must have the following three characteristics: Withstand diffusion Waterproof Be frost-free The only insulation material that has all three of these characteristics is extruded polystyrene (XPS). This material is sold in panel form, which is later laid on the roofing, and covered with a layer of gravel or timber. This type of flat roof is highly sought-after during renovation projects. It means the insulation-related work can be carried out without having the replace the existing insulation. This is known as a hybrid roofing insulation system. Nonetheless, it still has three major drawbacks: The weight of the panels can weaken the structure Heat loss can occur via the roof’s edges Water can seep beneath the insulation The water that seeps between insulation panel gaps will eventually reach the insulation layer. Rainfall, which is often described as cold water, will reduce the home’s thermal performance. 3. Adding insulation around the waterproofing This technique is made possible with two layers of insulation: one above the waterproofing and one beneath it. It includes the first technique mentioned, the one used for inverted flat roofs. This type of layering limits heat loss during periods of rainfall. However, the same constraints, in terms of the roofing finish that apply to inverted roofs, also apply here. Since the waterproofing membrane is laid atop the first insulation layer instead of the structure itself, thermal amplitude can increase the flat roof’s mechanical constraints. This is especially true when it comes to edges and joints. Meeting Effective Insulation Standards by Choosing the Right Material Source: Canva Since the end of 2012, Part 11 of the Quebec Construction Code and Novoclimat program have mandated a minimum R-41 rating for all flat roofs. However, this regulation solely applies to new constructions. To reach this value, you can turn to the following insulation materials: Polyurethane or urethane Glass wool (fibreglass) Polyurethane or urethane “Polyurethane” and “urethane,” are terms used interchangeably. They both refer to the same insulation material. Urethane insulation is a worthwhile insulation for flat roofs. They’re sold in either foam or panel format and are especially efficient materials for insulation, soundproofing, as well as waterproofing. Polyurethane has an R-value, per inch thick, that’s between 5 and 7. Glass wool Glass wool is one of the most commonly used insulation materials for flat roofs. Albeit fibreglass isn’t as efficient as polyurethane, it’s still a pretty decent insulation material. It has an R-value, per inch thick, that’s between 2.2 and 2.7. Glass wool is a mineral wool made with sand and recycled glass. It’s a great thermal and phonic insulation material that’s also especially resistant to humidity. It’s super easy to install and doesn’t require any sort of regular maintenance. What about EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Terpolymer)? EPDM’s R-value is somewhere between 0.24 and 0.33, however, it isn’t an insulation material per se. The truth of the matter is that this elastomer assembly is actually a single-layer membrane that serves as roofing for flat roofs. As such, you won’t want to insulate your flat roof with an EPDM membrane. How thick should a flat roof insulation be? However thick the insulation layer should be truly depends on the flat roof’s structure and intended purpose. For thermal insulation, the recommended thicknesses are between 10 and 15 cm, based on the insulation type selected. Regardless, to reach the required R-41 rating, you’ll have to take into account the chosen material’s R-value. As such, given the above-listed properties, fibreglass insulation should be thicker than one made of polyurethane. Insulating Your Flat Roof: A Sustainable Investment for Unparalleled Comfort The insulation stage is crucial to improve a building’s energy efficiency while also benefiting from unparalleled comfort. By choosing the right materials, you can significantly reduce heat losses during wintertime and maintain a comfortable temperature during summertime. By investing in quality insulation, you’re also reducing your long-term energy expenses and carbon footprint. Insulating your flat roof means ensuring your indoor space is comfortable and eco-friendly.


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