What is the Difference between Fiberglass Insulation & Foam Insulation?
Which insulation should you choose Fiberglass insulation, or elastomeric rubber insulation? In buildings and houses, insulation plays a crucial role. Insulation is the component that resists heat flow, which can help increase heating and cooling efficiency. It helps to maintain the desired temperature inside. Good insulation is essential for homeowners who want to improve the comfort of their homes and reduce energy bills.
This topic can be boring for those not involved in HVAC. However, heating and cooling are responsible for about half of all energy consumption in a typical home and 40% in commercial buildings. It is worth taking the time to think about insulation issues. There are many types of insulation available depending on the material. Fiberglass and elastomeric Nitrile Rubber are the most popular types. They have superior insulation performance and can be used with cellulose, straw, hemp and sheep's wool.
Fiberglass Insulation:
Fiberglass insulation comes in rolls, loose fill, and 8-foot batts. Fiberglass insulation is lightweight and economical. It can be used for commercial and residential purposes. Because it is made from glass, such insulation is resistant to dampness and burning.
Fiberglass insulation can also be installed without expensive equipment, making it a more affordable option. It reduces noise by trapping heat in millions of tightly bound fibers. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, fiberglass has an R value between 2.9 to 3.8 per inch of thickness. For areas that have limited cavity space, there are some fiberglass batt insulation manufacturers who produce medium- and high-density fiberglass batt insulation. These R-values range from 3.7 to 4.3 per in.
Elastomeric Foam Insulation:
Elastomeric Nitrile Rubber Insulation, also known as foam insulation, is the preferred choice for engineers due to its superior moisture resistance. Its cellular structure has millions of barriers that resist liquid migration. This characteristic not only helps to control moisture but also provides long-lasting thermal performance.
Elastomeric rubber insulation has a distinct advantage when it comes to indoor air quality. Elastomeric rubber insulation does not contain fibers or formaldehyde and is free from volatile organic compounds.
Elastomeric rubber insulation comes in sheets, rolls and tubes. The soft, spongy open-cell foam has a R-value of 3.6 to 4.3 and is impermeable but permeable for moisture. Closed-cell foam, on the other hand, becomes rigid upon application and has an R-value range of 6 to 7.
The decision between fiberglass insulation and elastomeric Nitrile Rubber insulation will depend on the preferences of engineers after an analysis of the building's requirements as well as the specifications of the owner.
You can go for anyone which seems suitable to fit your requirements and GIS solution can help you out in all situations. From highest quality fiber glass insulations to finest elastomeric foam insulation, we provide all at competitive prices. We have a team of experienced engineers that first evaluate what type of insulation is best for your property and then provide you with highest quality insulation solutions with complete perfection and proficiency.
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