Home Insulation Types
There are 2 types of house insulation: Bulk Insulation and Reflective Insulation.
Both types are integral for a proper home design. The bulk house insulation traps heat inside air pockets while reflective insulation resist radiant heat.
The bulk insulation resists heat conduction. The direction of the heat flow is not important.
The reflective house insulation reflects the heat from the shiny aluminium surface. Therefore, it is importantin what direction the reflective surface is facing.
In Darwin the reflective surface will face upward to repel the outside heat. In Melbourne or Sydney - the arrangement is reversed.
In most cases the house insulation is made of composite material. This usually incorporates the bulk insulation and reflective insulation into one item.
Insulation Levels for Better Homes
The level of insulation is measured in R-values (R stands for a resistance to flow). Each material has a specific R-value.
The higher the R-value the better is the insulation. It is not surprising that Victoria will require higher R-value insulation than Northern Territory.
The typical R-value figure for Melbourne is 3.7 for ceiling and 2.2 for walls. Darwin requires 2.7 for ceiling and 1.9 for walls.
Therefore Victoria is more concerned with the heat loss while Northern Territory with the heat gain. Energy efficient homes (or green home designs) must apply those R-values to be successful.
Home Insulation to Save the Heat
During cold days, an average home will loose:
- 25%-35% heat through the roof
- 11%-20% heat through windows
- 10%-20% heat through floor
- 15%-25% through leakage
Home Insulation to Keep Cool
During warmer days, the average home will gain:
- 25%-35% heat through the roof
- 25%-35% heat through windows
- 10%-20% heat through floor
- 5%-15% through leakage
Where to Install Home Insulation
Therefore, it is evident that roof and ceiling are the main source of gaining and loosing heat. The house insulation needs to be installed both under the roof and in the ceiling. External house walls should also be insulated. Builders usually install this insulation within cavities and stud frames.
It is estimated that roof and ceiling can save up to 45% of heating and cooling. Up to 20% can be saved by insulating house walls. Floor insulation is mainly needed in cold climates. Good green house design can save up to 5% on energy with proper floor insulation.
Remember, it is not enough for the builder to say "we use approved insulation". Ask for the R-value, ask for the types and ask for the locations of your house insulation.
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