The overall performance of an insulator must take into consideration real world factors such as installed performance, degradation, and how the product behaves as part of a building’s wall, floor or ceiling system.

When taking into account which parameters to consider when choosing an insulation, it is important to focus on the major issues associated with insulation and the thermal comfort, safety, and overall experience with the products. A list of key parameters is provided below:

  • The Three Heat Transfer Modes
  • Air & Moisture Infiltration
  • Thermal Bridging
  • Water Absorption
  • Aging or “Thermal Drift”
  • Physical Stability
  • Installation Deficiencies
  • Health & Safety
  • Qualitative Comparisons
  • Extreme Temperatures

Each parameter will have a varying level of impact on the building envelope’s ability to resist heat loss/gain.