Insulation and R-Values

In recent years, there has been a lot of emphasis on R-Values when building. R-Values are a measure of thermal resistance. In layman's terms, it is a measure of how much heat will be deflected or absorbed by the materials in your walls and ceiling of your home. A high R-Value will stop more heat from entering your home. The result is a cooler home with less heating and cooling expense.

For example, a brick home with R2.0 insulation batts may have the following layers and R-Values:

1. Outdoor air film R0.04

2. 110mm brickwork R0.14

3. Air cavity R0.17

4. Wall wrap R0.48

5. Wall batt R2.0

6. Plasterboard R.10

7. Indoor air film R0.12

TOTAL: R3.05

So, without the insulation batts, a standard brick wall offers R1.05

New products are offering higher R-Values. Take 75mm EPS cladding for example, which adds an extra R1.95. Now you have an R5.0 rating for your walls just by using a different material.

Aerated concrete is also a good product, with an R-Value of around R1.0

Adding wall and ceiling batts, and using modern building materials will ensure your home stays cooler/warmer without the costs associated with artificial temperature adjustment.