Environment

ECO Specifier Life-Cycle Assessment

Integrated Design and Policy Issues

Product is designed to replace fibre-based batts, blanket and sarking in one application. Product performs as a thermal insulation, vapour barrier and can be used as a thermal break.

Insulative performance is somewhat dependent on minimum air space dimensions (preferably over 20mm) adjacent to the outer surfaces and installation context. Reflective and hybrid insulation values should be quoted in the context of the building element as it is not the material itself which provides the thermal resistance but the impact of the low emittance surface that reduces heat flows across an air space.

It is important that penetrations through the foil (e.g. plumbing pipes or electrical cables) are taped and that the joins in the foil are taped. If air can leak from one air space to the next, the heat flow by convection ‘short circuits’ the reduced radiant heat flow caused by the reflective foil, substantially reducing its effect.

Reducing heating and cooling loads of buildings contributes to reductions in energy consumption and associated greenhouse gas emissions, through reduced need for air conditioning, and hence reduced plant size and
operating costs. Reduced re-radiation from surfaces exposed to direct sun
will also support staff comfort and increase productivity.