Insulation Types

Loose Fill

Loose fill materials include cellulose fibre and mineral wool, and is mainly used as ceiling insulation. It is simply pumped into the roof space, or sometimes the wall cavity. Since there’s no cutting, fitting or stapling it’s one of the fastest and easiest insulation types to install. Cellulose has been rated currently (by research sponsored by a leading European mineral fibre manufacturer) as the world’s most environmentally friendly insulation. It’s made from recycled paper, which has been chemically treated to resist fire, rot and vermin. The advantage of loose fill is that it is not restricted to standard sizes or shapes, and therefore will always fit snugly against and over the ceiling joists, giving a blanket coverage.

Bulk Insulation

Examples of bulk insulation products sold in Western Australia are ThermoSealed BATTS, fibreglass and polyester batts. These insulation batts are usually supplied in prefabricated sizes, and can also come in long rolls called blankets. The batt products are delivered to site in packs, and then installed into the areas requiring insulation. Bulk insulation is used as both ceiling and wall insulation. In vertical stud walls, batts are fitted into the stud wall spaces. Builders should ensure that batt-type products are installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s directions. 

Reflective Foil Insulation

Reflective foil has an ability to minimise radiant heat transfer, and it can also act as a water proofing membrane under a roof and in walls. Foil is available in single or multi layered forms, and can be bonded to rockwool batts, foam batts or plasterboard, providing insulation benefits in both directions. When using single layer reflective foil under a tiled or metal roof, bulk insulation will still be needed at the ceiling level to achieve a good insulation level through all seasons. 

Rigid Insulation

Rigid insulation comes in pre-cut boards that are used primarily in new home construction. They are also ideal for insulating areas such as raked ceilings, solid brick external walls, under wooden floors and around concrete slabs. Extruded polystyrene boards are most commonly used because of their rigidity and strength. 

Acknowledgement: ThermoSealed BATTS