TRENDWATCH
Trendwatch – insulation
We dive into what’s hot, cool and critical in roofing insulation.
C
urrently there’s a decline in
domestic homes wanting to install
insulation due to the higher cost of
living. On the construction side, however,
we’ve seen an increase of developers and
construction companies using more
insulation as it is required by law.
There are several types of materials that
can be used for different roofs – cellulose
fibre, isotherm and aerolite are laid and
installed flat against ceiling boards so the
type of roof doesn’t matter as much.
However, slab roofs require insulated
boards to be laid into the concrete when
casting and roofs such as A-frame need
similar boards to be installed as a
replacement for regular ceiling boards.
The biggest challenges we face are found
in the condition of a roof – roofs that aren’t
maintained are a water leak risk which can
be an issue for insulation materials. Poorly
installed ceiling boards can also struggle to
hold the weight of any insulation material
which causes the boards to pull through
nails. The space inside the roof can also be a
challenge, especially in low pitch roofs.
The biggest detriment, however, is
incorrectly or poorly installed insulation
such as gaps that are left between the
materials which allow heat transfer and
therefore limit the effectiveness. Keeping
these gaps to an absolute minimum is key.
Inspections are done during the quoting
phase – it’s vital to inspect the condition of
the roof and ceiling as well as check for old
leaks. Walking planks are sometimes
temporary laid in the roof to help installers
navigate with better care.
The safety of installers as well as the
safety of the roof and building are crucial.
The correct personal protective equipment
and training allows installers to be aware of
potential hazards such as cabling, leaking
pipes and cracked tiles. Having trained staff
not only improves installation, but also
helps to find potential problems for clients
before it becomes a problem.
New materials are being developed for
more specific needs, normally to speed up
the process of installing insulation. Having
said this, insulation is always important –
with global warming and rising electricity
costs, people are seeking ways to lower the
usage of heaters and air conditioners and
insulation is just the answer they are
looking for.
Insulation
By Dalton Cohen
Dalton Cohen is the owner and
director of Togan Insulation, a
Gauteng-based insulation specialist
offering thermal, acoustic, geyser
and pipe insulation as well as
consultation on energy efficiency
and financial viability.
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CLADDING // CONCRETE // INSULATION // STEEL // THATCH // TIMBER // TRANSLUCENT // WATERPROOFING // COMPONENTS
JAN - FEB 2019
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