Roof Insulation - Top Concern

The roof is the topmost part of the house and gets the radiation heat from the sun full-on, more than any other house part. Over and above its main task of stopping the sun’s heat, it also preserves the energy while giving more comfort with less overall cost on utilities. Doing this it would then need roof insulation.

With the insulation, there is better thermal protection in cold situation during winter time. The insulation works by preserving the convection of the heat inside the house. At the opposite, it reduces the chances of thermal moisture that can result in molds and mildew.

Insulation materials

For the roof, the insulation materials come in two types. One is the reflective insulation material and the other is the bulk insulation material. This one comes in forms like blanket, blown-in cellulose, rigid boards and sprayed foam.

In hot and cold conditions, the insulation roof using reflective materials is good for controlling better the unwanted temperature gain (or loss) including moisture penetration. Most homes and commercial buildings unite both materials (reflective foil and bulk insulation) to create complete insulation systems.

Reflective materials

The insulation using reflective materials is composed of two different layers of aluminum foils sandwiched with the inner layer of foam, plastic bubble or fiberglass. This prevents the energy from penetrating the inside of the structure.

Otherwise, it reflects around 97% of radiant energy away from the roof surface. This works best in summer with the use of aluminum reflecting the heat away from the protected structure.

Bulk materials

The composition is in blankets or batts insulation materials made of foam. The foam, in turn, is made of fiberglass, mineral wool, cotton or sheep’s wool. This works against the rising warm air, trapping heat from penetrating inside or outside.

The rigid foam does not compress or absorb moisture. It also has higher insulation and a longer life. The sprayed polyurethane foam is good for insulating metal walls and roofs.  It seals the air and moisture leaks and controls condensation.

Wood-frame

For most homes in any conditions, it is ideal to use the combined capabilities of the reflective and bulk insulation. Also in attics that are unheated, the bulk insulation materials can be used on the floor while the reflective material is effective in being used under the roof to reflect the inside heat.

For heated attics, you can use the same insulation applied over the roof surface. It can give relief to the conditions generated by radiant heat. Most of home roofs have enough space between the rafters to allow two inches of airspace for air circulation under the roof. 

This space allows the moisture and vapor to penetrate directly into the house. The reflective barrier can also work and act to suppress moisture and vapor as well. The condensation of moisture creates problems like molds and mildew as well as rot and dripping.

The ventilation provided by the space under the roof surface helps the moisture to escape and stop ice build up (in winter) and the damage it can cause. Roof insulation is a top concern for everyone concerned.