Insulation of the walls of the house is carried out in the case when the house is intended for living and the walls do not retain heat enough.
All devices for heating a house (steam, stove, gas heating) consume maximum energy, but heat is not stored.
Thermal insulation can provide a comfortable environment in the house by insulating the walls, because the wall is a vulnerable place in the house, which experiences a large wind load.
With insufficient insulation of the walls, the cold easily penetrates the house.
Insulating walls from the inside or outside is an individual decision. Less popular way of warming - from the inside. With this method, the area of \u200b\u200bthe room is significantly reduced.
This shortcoming of the method plays important role in deciding the method of thermal insulation in favor of external insulation work. In addition, there is a high probability of moisture inside the wall, especially in regions with high humidity.
Wall insulation from the outside is significantlymore often. This method requires more costs, but the internal area for living in the house is preserved, which is especially important in houses, the area of \u200b\u200bwhich is already insignificant.
Wall insulation methods
Types of thermal insulation, their advantages and disadvantages
Among the many heaters, those that are most suitable in terms of their physical characteristics and heat-insulating properties predominate.
What is the best way to make external insulation? The main types of wall insulation intended for external thermal insulation are:
- (good thermal insulator, resistant to warping, waterproof, but poor vapor permeability, risk of damage by rodents, toxic when burned);
- (low water resistance, durability, resistance to temperature extremes, but is vapor-tight, prone to rodents);
- (durable, low thermal conductivity, durability, resistance to temperature changes, no seams during application, however, it can create pressure in the cracks of the building, exposed to ultraviolet radiation, low fire safety during application);
- (excellent heat insulator, sound insulator, non-combustible, durable, but during installation it emits harmful formaldehydes);
- (waterproofing, soundproofing, environmental friendliness, durability, lack of seams, not affected by mold, rodents, however, shrinks during application, which can provoke peeling, recommended for combined insulation);
- glass wool(thermal insulation, sound insulation, not affected by mold, rodents, fire safety, moisture resistance, non-toxicity, but due to the fragility of the fibers, it requires additional protection);
- fibrolite(thermal insulation, sound insulation, environmental friendliness, fire resistance, durability, but with all the positive properties it is short-lived, not recommended for rooms with high humidity: baths, saunas);
- cork material(light, durable, non-flammable, environmentally friendly, heat insulator, sound insulator, but quite expensive). In addition, there are other materials, but they are less popular.
The choice of insulation
Differences in the insulation of aerated concrete, wooden, brick houses
From what material the walls of the house are made, the method of insulation depends. If we compare houses made of wood, brick and aerated concrete, we can distinguish following points noteworthy:
- Unlike brick walls and houses made of aerated concrete, a prerequisite for installation is the installation of a crate to ensure ventilation. Installation of the lathing of block walls is carried out only under or other hinged cladding;
- the most suitable heaters for aerated concrete and brick walls are materials with a high moisture resistance index (foam, expanded polystyrene), while For wooden houses ideal insulation is breathable mineral wool boards;
- the thermal conductivity of a brick wall is higher than that of aerated concrete, so the wall must either be insulated with a thicker layer of insulation, or the thickness of the brickwork must be increased;
- with external insulation of a wooden house, the surface should be carefully prepared by treating it with antiseptics;
- most often, fastening the layers of a wooden wall pie requires the installation of chipboard or OSB sheathing.
In addition, one should keep in mind all the indicators of the materials from which the walls are built, such as moisture resistance, thermal conductivity and thermal resistance.
How to calculate the thickness of insulation for walls
Before you buy a heater, you need to correctly calculate 
the thickness of the purchased material.
An indicator of the thickness of the material is the result of thermal resistance. The value for each region is different and is determined in accordance with the indications of SNiP.
For the region of the central part of the Eurasian continent, it is approximately equal to three.
The thickness of the insulation layer is equal to the difference between this indicator according to SNiP and the total amount of thermal conductivity of each material that is present in the wall.
To determine the thermal conductivity coefficient for each material, use the formula:
P=R/K ,
where R is the thickness of the material, K is an indicator of its thermal conductivity (the manufacturer indicates on the packaging).
After adding all the coefficients, the value is subtracted from the three. It turns out the thickness of the material necessary for insulation.
Wall pie device
Wall cake is a collection of layers of materials that are stacked vertically in a certain order.
Each layer of the pie wall has its own styling features. If the sequence of layers is violated, then there is a risk of destruction of the entire structure.
The device of a wall cake for external insulation must comply with the order of laying materials, starting with inside walls:
- interior decoration;
- internal bearing layer (drywall, sheathing);
- vapor barrier (required in frame houses);
- bearing wall;
- insulation;
- waterproofing (depending on the insulation);
- crate;
- ventilation gap (depending on the heat insulator);
- finishing.
Wooden wall cake
Such a scheme for laying materials should be followed if the house is timber, frame or log.
If the wall is brick or aerated concrete, then the wall pie is slightly different:
- interior decoration;
- Brick wall;
- insulation;
- ventilation gap (if mineral wool is used);
- load-bearing layer outside or crate (if you want to mount facade materials);
- finishing (plaster, siding, porcelain stoneware).
"Wet" wall cake
Particular importance should be given to waterproofing and vapor barrier.
Lathing installation
The crate for external insulation is necessary when attaching the siding as exterior finish walls. With vertical siding, the crate is fixed horizontally, and vice versa: with horizontal - vertically.
The crate can be made of wooden beams or their metal profile.
Lathing of beams
Before proceeding with the crate, it is necessary to prepare the bars: treat with an antifungal agent.
- saw off a beam of the required size;
- fix the brackets around the entire perimeter with self-tapping screws according to preliminary marking;
- fix the beam as guides on the right and left sides of the wall;
- if there is no thermal insulation, then it is necessary to fasten the beam to the wall by drilling holes for dowels and fixing it with self-tapping screws.
Run the crate along the entire wall, if it is necessary to level the surface, use special mounting wedges.
Lathing of beams
profile crate
The metal profile should be fixed with hangers and brackets.
Installation of a metal crate:
- fix the profile on the right side of the wall and on the left side so that there is at least 100 mm from the corner to the guide;
- according to the marking, drill holes for dowels and attach brackets along the entire wall;
- if thermal insulation is installed, then the insulation plates are pricked onto the brackets;
- lay the vapor barrier in the same way as a heater;
- install a metal profile along the edges of the wall;
- set the height of the profile with a thread and fix the profile along the entire wall;
- fasten stiffeners from the remains of the profile between the elements.
NOTE!
It is better to choose a metal profile for siding with curved edges.
It is best to use a good quality aluminum profile.
profile crate
Why do you need a counter-lattice
Lathing and counter lathing are concepts that are often confused. The crate is necessary for attaching the coating elements to it.
The counter grille is attached perpendicular to the crate and performs the function of ventilation and at the same time fixes the hydro-barrier.
Counter rails must be installed in the walls on the sheathing or on the rafters.
The walls of houses that are equipped with a counter-lattice are called ventilated.
With a ventilated facade, the properties of the cake materials are preserved and the formation of moisture and mold is prevented.
Installation of waterproofing and vapor barrier
When installing waterproofing outside the wall of a wooden house, it can be done:
- by applying a special solution to the walls;
- with the help of additional materials (waterproofing polyurethane foam).
If the wall is brick, then you can use special solutions or resort to an adhesive form of waterproofing: roofing material. Glue it vertically, overlapping, removing the formed air bubbles and gluing the joints with mastic.
When using decorative facing materials, special plaster waterproofing is used.
Waterproofing mineral wool
When installing a vapor barrier from the outside, films should be used that protect the surface of the wall from the outside and allow moisture to pass from the side of the walls.
Installation of vapor barrier films is reduced to the rules:
- they should be laid between the insulation layer and the wall;
- provide a gap for ventilation between layers;
- overlap the film, glue the joints, fasten the film with brackets.
If the vapor barrier is installed on a round beam, then there is no need to install a ventilation gap. In the case of square boards, such a need is mandatory.
External wall insulation with mineral wool for siding
For effective insulation mineral wool walls prepare the surface for subsequent installation work : clean up debris, close up gaps, remove gutters and other decorative elements, apply markings, attach hangers.
- laying mineral wool slabs from the bottom up between the guide posts end-to-end, pushing the material onto the suspensions and attaching the dowel-nails;
- close the cracks with pieces of insulation;
- lay a vapor barrier membrane similar to a heater;
- attach racks to suspensions;
- then proceed to the lining.
Metal crate
This method is suitable for metal profiles.
If a wooden beam is used, then the mineral wool insulation is somewhat different:
- on the prepared wall, attach the bars with corners at a distance of the width of the mineral wool slab;
- the insulation is laid end-to-end between the racks, fixed with a pair of dowels, the slots are sealed with mounting foam;
- if a second layer of insulation is needed, then counter-rails are attached to the racks and mineral wool slabs are laid between them;
- the diffusion membrane is attached to the frame with staples;
- install a counter-lattice, which serves as the basis for fastening siding panels and creates an air gap in the wall cake.
Wall cake for siding
Fastening mineral wool to the wall with dowels
External insulation technology using foam
Styrofoam can be used to insulate the walls of a private house from the outside. The order of work on foam insulation provides for the sequence of work performed:
- preparation of walls (cleaning of debris, sealing cracks, primer);
- applying the necessary markup;
- attach a profile at the bottom of the wall, which will serve as the basis for even laying the first row of plates;
- attach the foam by applying an adhesive solution, starting from the bottom corner. The second row of sheets is attached in a cross order;
- after the final drying of the glue, fix the foam plastic with umbrellas;
- joints are sealed with mounting foam, if large - with pieces of foam. After solidification, the excess foam is cut off;
- for finishing slopes and corners, special corners should be used, which are glued to the reinforcing mesh tape.
Laying sheets in a checkerboard pattern
Sheet fastening
CAREFULLY!
It is better not to insulate wooden houses with foam, since with a breathing tree it is better to use a porous insulation that can pass moisture and air vapor.
In this case, mineral wool is ideal.
The main mistakes of insulation
External wall insulation country house must be made in accordance with the requirements and rules for the installation of materials. Errors that most often occur during insulation contribute to improper circulation of air flows and the formation of moisture inside the cake, which leads to a weakening of thermal insulation qualities:
- incorrect calculation of heat resistance;
- in the absence of a basement rail at the bottom of the wall, the insulation may come into contact with the ground;
- polystyrene foam during installation should not be left in the sun for a long time;
- gaps between the insulation plates lead to the appearance of cold bridges;
- at the corners of the building and around doors and windows, expansion dowels should be installed to securely fasten the material.
In addition, you should not save on materials, since in addition to their correct installation, the poor quality of the material should not cause poor-quality insulation.
Thus, when insulating the walls, the living area is preserved, a careful study of the details is required to calculate the amount of materials and determine the order of installation work.
Useful video
Mineral wool insulation technology in video instructions:
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Wall insulation is an operation that is designed to solve several problems at once.
First, in this way can correct errors in calculations when designing a house, when the walls do not have the required thickness and cannot cope with heat-saving functions.
Secondly, insulation can be initially included in the design of the house as part of the construction plan, reducing material consumption and increasing functionality outer walls.
There are two insulation options that should be considered carefully.
There are two types of wall insulation:
- Outside.
Comparing these options with each other is not quite the right thing to do., since the process of wall insulation is literally possible only with an external location of the insulation.
The outer wall of the house performs three main functions:
- Mechanical barrier to protect against penetration into the room.
- The supporting structure of the building.
- Barrier to outside cold air.
Thus, when the insulation is located outside, all the working functions of the wall are preserved, plus an additional barrier appears, excluding contact with cold air, which is why internal warmth does not dissipate into the atmosphere. Accordingly, the temperature of the wall rises, dew point shifts outward, the process of condensation of moisture and wetting of the material stops. All problems are solved in the most efficient way.
Comparison of insulation methods
With the internal location of the insulation, the wall completely ceases to perform heat-saving functions, remaining only a supporting structure and an obstacle. The fact is that the wall is not insulated from the inside, but, on the contrary, is cut off from contact with warm internal air.. Its temperature sometimes drops to the degree of equalization with the outside, which creates a lot of problems for organizing the removal of steam from the interior of the house.
If the insulation lets steam through, then the wall will definitely get wet, which is fraught with undesirable consequences.. The solution to this problem is a complex procedure, which includes the need to organize supply and exhaust ventilation, ensure the most hermetic cut-off of the internal atmosphere from contact with the heater, etc.
The presence of such problems quite eloquently convinces of the preference for external insulation as an effective process, practically devoid of disadvantages or harmful consequences.
The most common insulation materials
Almost all heaters available in wide sale, are suitable and common materials.
These include:
mineral wool
The best option -, a dense fibrous material made from molten rock. It has high heat-saving qualities, conducts water vapor well, which is important for external wall insulation.
Does not promote the appearance of insects or rodents, does not burn. The disadvantage of the material is the ability to absorb moisture requiring the organization of high-quality hydroprotection.
Basalt wool
Styrofoam (PPS)
A material that is very popular due to its low price and very high heat-saving qualities.. It consists of many small hermetic granules filled with gas bubbles and soldered into a single array using hot steam.
It has a convenient manufacturing format, is easy to process and keeps its shape well, which helps a lot during installation. Wherein, almost impervious to moisture or water vapor, which requires appropriate measures to be taken to remove it.
In addition, it is not elastic - it crumbles or breaks when deforming loads appear.
Styrofoam
Expanded polystyrene (EPS)
Chemically, the material is an analogue of polystyrene, but a different manufacturing technology significantly changes its characteristics.- a frozen foam mass, not consisting of individual particles, but being a continuous porous slab.
That's why the permeability to water or steam of XPS is practically zero. The heat-saving properties of the material are very high, it is durable, and is produced in the form of rigid plates. At the same time, it is much more expensive than polystyrene, which somewhat reduces its use.
Styrofoam
polyurethane foam
How insulation is used applied by spraying with special equipment. Most useful property PPU is the ability to apply as densely and airtightly as possible to the surface, without the formation of cracks or gaps.
A layer of hardened foam is formed, dense enough and at the same time light, not allowing steam or water to pass through.. It is quite expensive, in addition, equipment is required, as well as a specialist who knows how to work with PPU. It is used, most often, for internal application.
polyurethane foam
Penoplex
A variety of EPPS, which has qualities similar to it, but is somewhat modernized. Different types are made - for walls, for foundations, etc. The material is ideal for insulation and waterproofing of buried sections of walls or structures, and has proven itself as a heater for interior work.
It is produced in the form of plates of various thicknesses.
Penoplex
What is the best material for wall insulation?
largely depends on the general climatic and atmospheric characteristics of the region, as well as on the material of the walls. The main selection criterion is the ratio of the vapor conductivity of the wall and the insulation, which ensures the unimpeded removal of steam from one layer to another without the formation of accumulations or barriers.
NOTE!
The basic rule of insulation must be followed: the vapor permeability of materials should be maximum inside and decrease as you move out.
Compliance with this condition gives a guarantee of high-quality work of the wall cake, durability, preservation of the properties of wall materials and insulation.
Consider the most common wall options:
Foam concrete
Such a porous material most easily conducts steam and absorbs moisture. Such properties determine the choice of insulation that can easily pass steam - mineral wool. At the same time, it is necessary to provide high-quality external vapor and hydroprotection, which ensures the removal of vapors to the outside and does not allow moisture to penetrate inside.
The best choice would be a single-acting waterproof membrane.
Insulation of foam concrete walls with mineral wool
Wooden
In terms of insulation, wood is a reliable insulator in itself.. Risky areas in this case are the joints of logs or beams, connecting planes and corner ligaments. The meaning of the whole procedure in this case is transferred to the plane of waterproofing and cutting off cracks.
Therefore, both mineral wool and polystyrene can be used as a heater., although in any case, careful surface preparation and, in particular, sealing of all cracks will be required. Without this, a positive result is not guaranteed.
From time immemorial, Russian huts were saved by the presence furnace heating- the draft carried away the extra particles of steam, and the kindling mode contributed to this. Currently, high-quality ventilation of the premises is required.
Insulation of wooden walls with mineral wool
brick
Brick is the most dense material, of the named ones, it is the least capable of passing water vapor.. At the same time, having a maximum density, the brick has a fairly high thermal conductivity, easily gives off heat to the environment.
Therefore, the most effective heat insulator is required, capable of retaining heat and protecting the wall from external influences. The recommended material can be mineral wool, polyurethane foam or polystyrene foam (expanded polystyrene), moreover, for mineral wool, waterproofing will be required, and polystyrene will create a risk of moisture accumulation at the outer boundary of the wall-insulation.
Thermal insulation with polyurethane foam
How to calculate the thickness of the insulation?
The calculation of the thickness of the outer insulation can be made according to several parameters:
- According to the location of the dew point.
- The thermal conductivity of the material.
Both methods require a lot of special data and are produced according to complex formulas. Most importantly, such calculations do not take into account the impact of subtle effects that can completely unpredictably change current processes. Therefore, in practice, they usually use ready-made data from similar projects that have shown themselves positively in operation, or they use online calculators, of which a sufficient number are offered on the network.
Specifications
It is only necessary to substitute the necessary data and get the finished result. For reliability, you should test it on several others to get the average value, the most correct.
How to avoid mistakes when insulating walls?
The reason for all the errors is the lack of information about the technology and a poor understanding of the meaning of the actions performed. Therefore, you should study the issue as fully as possible, find out all the nuances of vaporization and finding the dew point.
In addition, it is necessary to carefully analyze the technological processes used to insulate walls in these conditions and on this material, clarify all the weaknesses and find out the most effective ways their elimination. Only after that should work begin.
Dew point
External thermal insulation of walls - the most successful and effective procedure. The main condition for success is the correct choice of material and the possession of the necessary knowledge, skills or other information. This approach ensures quality and reliable insulation exterior walls, creating a cozy atmosphere in the house.
Useful video
In this video you can see an overview modern species thermal insulation:
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Surely the inhabitants apartment buildings a little jealous of those who live outside the city in a private building. Own living space, garden, fresh air- everyone's dream. Alas, not everything is so simple, because the harsh Russian winters force you to carefully insulate your home to avoid freezing. This implies impressive investments and constant monitoring of the condition of the heat-insulating material, from which residents of city houses are exempted.
Warming your home is preferable to using a dozen heaters - you can save money and make your home more comfortable. It is known that there are two ways of thermal insulation of a private building - from the outside and from the inside. Experienced experts recommend using both, but it is primarily worth taking care of external insulation. About what material is best suited for certain houses - further.
Requirements for thermal insulation material
The consumer is not in danger of a long search for good products - the market is saturated with goods from different manufacturers, so in any hardware store you can choose a decent heater. However, before buying, it is necessary to analyze the material in question for its physical and chemical properties. These include:
- thermal conductivity coefficient (characterizes the ability of the insulation to conduct or retain air; the lower the indicator, the better - you do not have to use a thick layer of material);
- moisture absorption coefficient (indicates the ability of the material to absorb water as a percentage by weight; the higher the indicator, the less durable the insulation);
- density (based on the value, you can determine how much the material will make the house heavier);
- resistance to fire (there are 4 classes of flammability; the first one (G1) is most preferable, which stops burning without an open source of fire);
- environmental friendliness (not the most important indicator for consumers, and in vain - to preserve the health of family members, you should choose only natural material from natural components, does not emit impurities into the atmosphere and does not contain synthetic elements);
- durability (the service life of the insulation set by the manufacturer);
- hygroscopicity (the ability to absorb vapor from the air);
- resistance to pests (insects, rodents, birds);
- soundproofing properties;
- ease of installation (insulation should be fixed quickly, with a minimum set of tools; it should also be minimal amount additional work like cutting into even pieces).
It is difficult to choose a material that would have all the desirable qualities. For this reason, it is possible and necessary to carry out insulation outside and inside.
Advantages of external thermal insulation
The question of warming a private house from the outside arises in two cases - at the design stage of a building or when buying a finished one, but at the same time not having decent thermal insulation. The second situation is more common. What are the benefits of insulating a home from the outside? These include:
- reduced wall deformability due to additional protection;
- the facade perceives sharp temperature fluctuations; as a result, the service life of the building will be extended;
- freedom in choosing the design of the facade, even when the building is erected;
- the area of the interior remains unchanged; this allows you to carry out any kind of decoration, and living conditions will remain the same.
Ways of external insulation of the house
The need and benefits of thermal insulation from the outside are obvious; now the consumer should familiarize himself with the methods of insulation. There are three of these:
- "well" arrangement of the material;
- "wet" insulation with gluing;
- ventilated facade.
In the first case, the insulation is placed inside the walls (for example, between layers of bricks). It turns out that it is "locked" between two levels. The method is effective, but it is impossible to implement it for an already built house.
In the second case, the insulation layer is fixed to the glue on the outside of the walls, then additionally attached to the dowels. Several types of coatings are applied on top - reinforcing, intermediate, decorative (finishing). A good way, only requires the intervention of specialists; Do-it-yourself wet wall insulation is impossible without experience.
The ventilated facade resembles a "well" masonry, only the outer layer protrudes facing material- drywall, tiles, siding, etc. Additionally, you will have to build frame system for fixing sheets of heat insulator.
The last method is the most popular, common and profitable. It will cost much less than "wet" insulation; in addition, even a beginner will be able to do the work with their own hands. Now the consumer faces the most difficult choice.
Existing materials can be divided into two large groups - organic (of natural origin) and inorganic (obtained using special materials and equipment).
Types and advantages of inorganic heaters
The first place in the list rightfully belongs to the most popular material - mineral wool. It is of three types - stone (basalt), glass and slag. Differing from each other only externally, varieties of mineral wool have the following qualities:
- low coefficient of thermal conductivity (0.03 - 0.045);
- density variations (from 20 to 200 kg/m3);
- excellent soundproofing properties;
- vapor permeability (mineral wool can "breathe");
- fire resistance.
It is not without a number of disadvantages, including:
- attraction for rodents and insectoids;
- deterioration of thermal insulation characteristics by 50% when only 3-5% of the volume is wet;
- never completely dries out.
In general, mineral wool is good, but it is highly undesirable to use it for cladding a house from the outside.
The second known external insulation is foam. Its advantages:
- the heat conductivity coefficient is slightly lower than that of mineral wool (0.03 - 0.037);
- costs less than other heaters;
- easy;
- density from 11 to 40 kg/m3.
- fragility;
- release of toxic substances during fire;
- does not “breathe”, which forces residents to build additional supply and exhaust ventilation;
- when directly wet, it absorbs moisture, becoming unusable.
Extruded polystyrene foam is not inferior in thermal conductivity to mineral wool and polystyrene. In addition, he:
- does not absorb moisture;
- convenient for installation, because it is produced in plates;
- stronger than foam
- almost does not pass air.
Flaws:
- flammable;
- when burned, it releases harmful substances.
There is another type of raw material used for external thermal insulation walls of the house - "warm" plasters. They are a mixture of balls (formed by glass, cement and hydrophobic additives). They “breathe”, isolate the room from moisture, do not burn, are not afraid of sunlight, and are easy to repair. Not very common on the market, however, experienced consumers have already appreciated this insulation.
Varieties and benefits of organic materials
For those who want to feel as close to nature as possible, it is recommended to use raw materials from natural ingredients. These include:
- cork heaters - have a thermal insulation coefficient of 0.045 - 0.06; are crushed tree bark, compressed under the influence of hot steam and resin as a binding element; easy to cut, "breathe", do not form mold, non-toxic; today they are increasingly used to insulate walls from the outside);
- cellulose wool (ecowool) - thermal conductivity from 0.032 to 0.038; are crushed cellulose, treated with flame retardants to improve fire-fighting properties; properties resemble cork materials, but absorb liquid better; do not withstand heavy loads and are not suitable for wall cladding;
- hemp - supplied in plates, rolls, mats based on hemp fibers; does not hold the load well, although it is quite dense (20-60 kg / m3);
- straw - an old way of thermal insulation of the walls of the house; breathable material treated with flame retardants to reduce flammability; today it is practically not used;
- algae - an exotic method of sheathing exterior walls; density up to 80 kg / m3, do not burn, do not rot, do not arouse interest in rodents, are resistant to mold and fungus. Best suited for light walls.
Preferred insulation for home cladding
Each material has pros and cons. Based on the information presented above, it is possible to compile a symbolic rating of the most quality materials for the walls of the house (the first is the most preferred, etc.). It is also worth considering the type of facade design.
For ventilated systems, cotton wool is better suited - mineral, cellulose. When laying wells, give preference to a material that does not allow moisture to pass through. This is extruded polystyrene foam. Plaster wall decoration goes well with insulation, whose density is more than 30 kg / m3. For example, with mineral wool, PPS, polystyrene, any organic material.
For light walls of a wooden house, breathable material is better suited - mineral wool, hemp, ecowool, cork insulation. The former is preferable, but costs a little more.
A country house should be of high quality sheathed with reliable material. The consumer can choose any of the previously discussed, guided by their wishes or financial capabilities. A competent approach to the acquisition of insulation is the key to a long service life of a cozy home.
Construction and composition of the walls multi-storey buildings or one-story houses, as well as their thickness, are not able to ensure 100% safety of thermal energy inside the premises. Monolithic concrete or stone are considered cold materials, but in terms of strength they rank first among all materials used in civil and industrial construction. To turn these materials into energy-saving and warm structures, a multi-layer thermal insulation technology for building structures of any type is used. Thermal insulation is made for walls both outside and inside. When performing insulation, all SNiPs and GOSTs are observed, these two points are very important in the construction process.
All houses, structures or buildings made of stone require additional thermal insulation. Stone includes such materials as: brick (solid, hollow, silicate, hollow porous), aerated concrete blocks, foam concrete and fortan blocks, rubble stone, shell rock, kotilets and all types of cement and reinforced concrete products (monolithic slab structures, concrete panels and ceilings).
Wall insulation, characteristics
There are the following types of wall insulation:
Styrofoam(insulation for walls expanded polystyrene) - is a modern polymer insulation of the latest generation. This product is used in almost all areas of construction and even in industrial production processes. Styrofoam grades PPT-25 and PPT-35 are used for wall insulation (outside and inside), attic balconies, loggias and mansards, as well as balcony floors. The dimensions of the foam boards are standard: 1000x500x50mm.
The material has the following qualities: low water absorption coefficient, zero thermal conductivity, resistance to biological and chemical damage, windproof and soundproofing properties, low weight, flexibility and ease of installation. The material is in the group of environmentally friendly products. Service life - more than 50 years. The price of this product is the most affordable, despite some disadvantages as a flammability class.
Mineral wool (stone wool or glass wool) is a heat and sound insulating material widely used in the insulation of buildings for any purpose, and especially walls (external and internal), balconies and loggias. The internal and external use of the insulation justified its quality due to the physical and technical characteristics:
In insulation work (eg wall insulation in a panel house), mineral wool with thermal conductivity: 0.034-0.037 W / mK and flammability class NG (non-combustible) is used. It is possible to work with material at temperatures from -60ºС — to +220ºС. This roll insulation for walls has the following dimensions: 1000x600x50mm, 7000x1200x50mm, 9000x1200x50mm, 10000x1200x50mm, 10000x1200x100mm, except for rolls, cotton wool is produced in slabs.
Brands of mineral wool used for wall insulation: Ursa, Izovol, Knauf, Rockwool, TechnoNIKOL, etc.
polyurethane foam- a kind of plastic, has a cellular-foamy structure. The cell space is filled with air and occupies 90% of the total mass of the product. PPU has a high level of resistance to various chemicals, does not absorb water, excellent heat and sound insulation, has a low weight and a high level of adhesion to all types of work surfaces: concrete, glass, wood, steel, brick, painted surfaces. With material it is possible to work at a temperature of 100 degrees. Operating period - up to 30 years.
PPU (polyurethane foam) is widely used in the process of insulating walls and frame balconies, as well as for insulating buildings with complex configurations. The zero level of thermal conductivity and the elasticity of the product are exactly what you need to insulate walls, balconies, attics and attic spaces. The seamless process of using this product and its perfect adhesion creates a truly hermetic seal. No need to ask the constant question: “what insulation is better for thermal insulation?” - PPU is an excellent coating for walls both outside and inside. This material is a guarantee of excellent vapor barrier and, first of all, waterproofing. The only negative is the high cost.
Extruded polystyrene foam- the latest generation material, made according to a special technological process. For wall insulation, the brand of extruded polyurethane foam Penoplex and Technoplex is more often used. In the manufacture of Technoplex, graphite is used in the form of nano-sized particles. Nano-sized graphite increases the strength of the material and increases the energy saving of the product.
Penoplex (insulation for walls penoplex) - has a high energy saving coefficient, zero heat loss, excellent sound insulator. In addition to wall insulation, this material is widely used in the insulation of balconies, loggias, floors, basements and other building structures. When installing a "warm floor" - penoplex is an essential material. The coefficient of thermal conductivity is 0.0029W/(m°C). Comparing Penoplex with foam panels, mineral basalt wool or glass wool, it surpasses them in terms of energy saving. Moisture resistance is equal to 0.2%, the strength factor is 200-500kPa. Not subject to destruction by mold, chemical substances and rodents. The boards are quickly assembled due to their flexibility and low weight. The product corresponds to the flammability class - G1, G4. Almost all brands of extruded polystyrene foam are endowed with such characteristics.
Liquid thermal insulation. For example, alphatec is a liquid-like thermal insulation of the latest technological progress in the field of insulation. The production technology of this material includes a polyacrylic system with the formation of many ceramic bubbles. The bubble system is filled with vacuum and it is this technical side that acts as an insulating component.
Material Features:
- heat insulator for external and internal use,
- ultra-thin insulation for pipes of any purpose and diameter,
- excellent material that prevents corrosion and other metal destruction,
- energy-saving product with zero heat loss,
- the material prevents the formation of condensate,
- frost protection,
- resistance to sudden temperature changes,
- reducing the weight of the structure,
- preservation of space,
- in addition to elasticity and energy saving, the product has aesthetics.
"Heat mirror effect" Alfatek - is to reflect the heat flow received from the coolant or heat reflector and keep the heat in itself. This ultra-thin insulation interrupts the contact of the base with the flow of cold entering the room from the outside, that is, from the street. The thermal conductivity of the material is 0.001W/m°K.
Thermal insulation Alfatec (liquid insulation for walls) anti-corrosion protection of all metal surfaces with coverage for all hard-to-reach places, which cannot be covered with other types of heat insulators. The put layer of isolation is not exposed to destruction from the side of the atmospheric phenomena and chemical substances. The concentration of paint does not affect the reduction in the degree of insulation, the main thing is uniform application and the absence of cold bridges.
The appearance of the Alfatec product is similar to a conventional paint based on water and acrylic polymers. In addition to pipe systems and metal structures insulation is used to insulate all types of surfaces: brick, stone, concrete, etc. Before application, careful surface treatment is necessary: dust removal, degreasing and drying. For work on metal, priming or other treatment with anticorrosive agents is not required, the paint of the insulator acts as a corrosion preservative.
Other heaters are also used: ecowool, warm plaster, polyethylene foam (penofol, termaflex, isolon, energy flex), foam glass and others.
How to insulate walls?
For thermal insulation of such materials, there are three options:
- Option I - insulation for the walls of the house is mounted around the entire perimeter of the interior, inclusive, attic, balcony and loggia (walls, floor, stream, and on the balcony, in addition to the above, there is also a parapet);
- Option II - the insulation is placed in the thickness of the construction cake (when pouring concrete, thermal insulation such as expanded polystyrene, BSA or polystyrene concrete is placed right in the middle of the pour);
- Option III - insulation of the structure from the outside (hinged ventilated facades as insulation for walls - foam plastic, extruded polystyrene foam, stone wool or glass wool, expanded polystyrene concrete and others).
All options have their pros and cons, for internal insulation, the disadvantage is the formation of condensate, this is a clear and urgent problem. modern construction and thermal insulation.
Masonry in the form of a "pie"
The construction “pie” consists of the following layers: the first layer is load-bearing walls, the second layer is cement or mixed plaster and heat-insulating material, the third layer is the finishing facade cladding, consisting of: primer, glue, building cladding mesh, finishing plaster and decorative finishing material.
Bearing walls are made of durable masonry or filler material, additional connecting and reinforcing elements. Stone or concrete are two durable building and masonry materials used in the construction of houses from the base or foundation to the attic. The load-bearing walls account for the entire mass of the building, the service life of the house and the strength to withstand the additional weight added by means of other materials and devices depend on their strength: reinforced concrete stairs and flights of stairs, roofing structure with its constituent materials, plumbing network, heating equipment and all contents of residential premises (furniture, Appliances and sanitary equipment, etc.). When planning a future building, all these nuances are calculated to the smallest detail.
As for thermal insulation, here you can list a whole list of heaters: polystyrene foam, extruded polystyrene foam, mineral (stone) basalt wool, fiberglass wool, polyurethane foam (PPU), liquid thermal insulation, warm plaster, cellulose boards, sandwich panels and other thermal insulation materials. Insulation according to the technology is superimposed on an even layer of plaster, that is, before the walls are insulated, the surface is plastered.
The final or finishing layer is carried out in order to seal the previous layers - the load-bearing wall and insulation, as well as to decorate the walls from the outside of the building. Wall insulation from the inside is carried out using a similar technology, with the exception of finishing plastering.
Insulators have almost the same coefficient of thermal conductivity, due to which the thickness of all types is the same, the calculation of the thickness of insulation for walls is carried out in terms of the correct choice of material with a high level of energy saving inside the building. If construction is carried out in an area with a harsh climate, a double layer of insulation is used, regardless of whether it is mineral wool or expanded polystyrene. Compared to basalt wool, extruded polystyrene foam or simple foam plastic adheres tightly to the base without forming cold bridges, but is inferior in flexibility to stone wool.
Vapor permeability plays an important role in the thermal insulation of walls, the higher this coefficient, the less likely it is that condensation will form. Condensation leads to the destruction of all composite components of the layered masonry, thus shortening the operational life of the building.
Fire safety ranks first among technical requirements during construction and insulation. Despite the importance of this item, the foam is still widely used because of the cost and ease of installation. Styrofoam is 5 times cheaper than mineral basalt wool, which is why it is allowed in the process of performing thermal insulation.
According to the agreement SP 23-101-2004 “Design of thermal protection of buildings”, using foam plastic (foam plastic wall insulation technology), all window openings and areas surrounding windows are insulated with non-combustible materials - mineral wool, glass wool and other non-combustible materials. This technology "saved combustible" foam from the list of prohibited products for thermal insulation of buildings and houses.
Fasteners are plastic dowels or basalt-plastic tapes. Tapes are mounted with a step of 60 X 50 cm from each other. The fastening system or fixing the insulation to the wall is quite durable, with a service life of up to 50 years. The entire finishing layer rests only on the foundation of the building.
Attention! When performing work on wall insulation from the outside, it is necessary to properly close the lower space in the area of \u200b\u200bthe foundation and the three-layer cake.
To avoid destructive consequences from the thermal insulation process, walls are ventilated or hinged ventilated facades are installed. Due to the space between the insulation and outer wall, as well as installing ventilation holes an obstacle is created for the formation and settling of moisture inside the construction "pie". Thus, the constantly ventilated layer cake will serve for many years without complaints from consumers.
After the completion of construction, it is already known what material to insulate the walls with, because these facts are included in the project plan, and for secondary housing, what kind of wall insulation is needed, how to choose them ?! A civil engineer together with a technologist, when examining such structures after a full examination, will be able to give an accurate technical answer to this sore point. There is nothing complicated here - the main thing is to repair the building, and then everything is done according to the specified scheme of external thermal insulation.
Mineral basalt wool is an ideal insulation for walls under siding, in this case it is necessary to perform phased installation and proper ventilation of the facade. IN panel houses the walls from the inside are very cold, even in the case when the external insulation is 100% complete, there is a need for insulation. It is urgent to install wall insulation under the wallpaper, then the walls will become warm and dry when touched.
No matter how comfortable and modern a house is, without high-quality thermal insulation it will not become comfortable for living. Properly organized insulation can significantly reduce heating costs, protect the facade of the house and its premises from dampness, freezing, mold and fungi, which will significantly extend the life of the building. The most popular is outdoor, or facade insulation Houses.
Advantages and disadvantages of external insulation
All load-bearing elements of the structure should be thermally insulated, but this is especially important for the outer walls of the house, since they are the leaders in terms of heat loss.
By insulating the outer walls, it is possible to protect them from the negative effects of high and low temperatures, as well as their abrupt change. As a rule, the insulation is closed with a facade, which also performs a protective function, taking on the atmospheric effect on itself. All this contributes to maintaining the strength of the walls, increasing the period of their maintenance-free operation.
Insulation from the outside can be quite voluminous, but this does not affect the usable area of \u200b\u200bthe premises in the house. This cannot be achieved when warming rooms from the inside, because even the thinnest layer of thermal insulation leads to a slight, but a decrease in usable area.
In addition, with external insulation, it is possible to avoid the formation of "cold bridges", which inevitably arise between the floor and walls, walls and partitions when internal insulation premises. User reviews suggest that "cold bridges" are practically not formed when the facade is insulated. Otherwise, they can be easily eliminated by using special gaskets at the joints of insulation sheets.
The task of thermal insulation of external walls is to bring the total indicator of their resistance to heat transfer to the design indicator that is optimal for a particular area. More details about such calculations will be discussed below.
Usually, insulation is resorted to already on erected walls. Thanks to the diversity modern materials and insulation techniques, it is possible to solve the problems of heat transfer and, accordingly, protect the walls from freezing, the appearance of erosion on concrete surfaces, rotting wooden structures.
In rare cases, you can do without additional wall insulation in frame houses in the first place. Others, for example, foam block houses, definitely need thermal insulation.
Ways
Depending on the type of facade, structural features and the chosen option for exterior decoration, one or another method of installing insulation is selected. Today's thermal insulation materials have a small thickness with high thermal efficiency. They are suitable for laying on a "wet" and "dry" facade, and can also be poured into wall voids. The first involves the use of building mixtures for finishing, fixing the insulation is carried out on glue.
Hinged facades involve the use of fasteners. As a rule, panels and tiles are used for decoration, which delight in the variety of designs. The user can choose calm, muted shades of the panels or, on the contrary, bright ones. Facade materials imitating stone, wood, imitating plaster or brickwork are very popular.
Insulation with bulk material, for example, granulated foam glass, is used in the construction of walls using the well method. Also, materials of this type are suitable for mixing masonry mortars and plaster mixes. Regardless of the chosen method of laying the insulation, it is necessary to prepare the surface of the walls. All protruding elements must be beaten off, cracks and gaps are eliminated with cement mortar.
It is necessary to remove all communications from the facade - wires, pipes. The surface must be level, clean and dry. After that, it is necessary to prime the facade in 2-3 layers. The primer will provide additional protection walls, as well as better adhesion of materials. It is recommended to pre-treat wooden surfaces with an antiseptic or choose a primer containing antiseptic additives.
Under plaster
Insulation in the form of sheets or plates is glued onto the prepared wall with special glue. Additional fixation is provided by umbrella dowels, which are inserted into specially made holes on the surface of the glued insulation. Each subsequent row of insulation is attached with an offset of ½ sheet of the previous row. For some time after gluing, the material remains mobile, so it is possible to align it and correct minor flaws.
After the insulation is fixed, a thick layer of glue is applied to it, into which the reinforcing mesh is pressed. First, it is attached to the corners of the building, for which special corners are used. After about a day, the facade mesh is securely installed at the corners and you can proceed to attaching the mesh to the rest of the facade surfaces.
The next stage is the plastering of surfaces. The composition is applied in several layers. Each subsequent - after the complete drying of the previous one. To improve the adhesion of the layers and eliminate small irregularities on the dry layer, you should walk with fine sandpaper.
The final layer of plaster is covered with decorative plaster or painted with facade paint. The latter usually has an acrylic base, the presence of polyurethane in the composition is acceptable to increase the strength and wear resistance of the painted layer.
Ventilated facade
To increase the thermal efficiency of buildings, more and more often resort to the organization of a ventilated facade. Its feature is the presence of air space between the insulation fixed close to the wall and facade material. This distance is usually 25-50 mm.
In addition to preparing the facade, it is necessary to install a crate - a system consisting of metal profiles or wooden bars, which is a frame. Facade materials are attached to this frame.
For crates are increasingly used metal profiles, which is associated with their greater bearing capacity, as well as durability and fire resistance. Important point- the profiles of the crate must be made of stainless steel. It is acceptable to use other metals, but on condition that they have anti-corrosion protection.
Wooden logs are also used as a frame. Before installation, they are treated with flame retardants and compounds that increase the hydrophobicity of wood. The frame is attached to the entire surface of the facade by means of brackets. Insulation (in the form of sheets, mats) is laid between the railing guides, which is mounted on brackets (as if hung on them).
A waterproofing windproof membrane is laid on top of the insulation, which protects the heat-insulating layer from moisture and blowing. The membrane together with the insulation is fixed to the wall by means of dish-shaped dowels. The fastening element must necessarily fall in the center of each heat-insulating sheet, 2-3 dowels are installed at the edges.
The completion of the work is the installation hinged panels or tiles, which are fastened with self-tapping screws to the crate and interlock with each other by means of a locking mechanism. The latter ensures the wind resistance of the facade, the absence of gaps in it. For the design of corners, window and door openings, various architectural elements, special additional structures are used.
It is a mistake to assume that only a hinged facade can be ventilated. "Wet" technology is quite applicable to a ventilated system. For this, the facade is also designed wooden crate, between the guides of which the insulation is glued. A protective membrane is installed on top of it.
This "pie" is covered with a solid crate of plywood or boards. They are mounted on wooden logs, so a solid wooden "facade" is obtained. It is primed, and after drying, finishing plastering is performed.
Finally, there is the so-called integrated approach - the organization of a ventilated facade using thermal panels. The latter are insulated facade slabs (for example, clinker), which are glued or fixed to the crate. Additional insulation walls are not needed, the main thing is to choose the desired thickness of the thermal panel insulation (the standard thickness is 30-100 mm) and seal the gaps between the facade tiles.
Three layer system
This insulation technology is possible only when building walls at home. As a rule, it involves laying walls according to the principle of a well. As the level of the facade rises, an air space is formed between the walls. It is filled with bulk insulation or liquid heat-insulating mixtures.
An option for such construction may be the use of dimensional aerated concrete blocks with large cavities for the construction of walls. At the same time, the cavities in the blocks are filled with loose heaters (expanded clay, perlite).
A simpler and less time-consuming way to build warm walls is to use blocks of non-removable polystyrene foam formwork. Assembly of blocks is somewhat similar to assembly children's constructor- elements of the wall structure are fastened by means of spikes and grooves. After the wall has risen somewhat, a reinforcing belt is installed and a concrete solution is poured.
The result is reinforced concrete walls equipped with inner and outer heat-insulating layer. Facade finishing in this case is carried out using ½ brick masonry, facade tiles or simply plastered. Choice of options interior decoration also wide.
The only way to organize a three-layer insulation system is to sheathe the structure with brickwork. In other words, the masonry acts as the outer layer of the "pie", as well as the finishing of the facade.
The technology involves insulating the main wall with insulation, and then lining it with bricks. This method is only suitable for reinforced foundations that protrude at least the width of a brick. If the bearing capacity of the existing foundation is small, then brick cladding requires the installation of its own foundation. It, in turn, must be connected with the base of the main walls.
Varieties
Depending on the composition and production technologies of manufacturing, heaters have a different appearance, specifications and scope. There are materials that are used exclusively on flat surfaces, while others are suitable only for a hinged ventilated facade.
However, modern heaters are quite versatile. So, bulk materials are suitable not only for insulation flat surfaces or backfill in the inter-wall space, but can also be added to the cement mortar for pouring or floor screed. Mineral wool materials are used for wet and hinged facades, and are also suitable for thermal insulation of internal walls, floors and ceilings. Moreover, due to the heat resistance of stone wool, it can be used to insulate baths or saunas.
Stone wool can be used to insulate structures that are not subjected to loads, as well as those that are under pressure. To do this, you just need to choose the right density of cotton wool.
Due to the variety of release forms, it is possible to choose a more convenient option in terms of installation for a particular site. So, for warming flat, even areas, it is convenient to use roll materials. Plates will help out if necessary to cover large flat vertical surfaces. Bulk materials or foam insulation are suitable for basement insulation.
Styrofoam and extruded polystyrene foam
Previously, styrene foam heaters were almost the only ones, and therefore were widely used. Today, the situation is different, and the owners of private houses are in no hurry to use it for thermal insulation.
Expanded polystyrene materials are represented by two types - non-pressed foamed polystyrene (more commonly known as polystyrene foam) and an analogue obtained during extrusion. Styrofoam is a light rectangular blocks of white color, which can have different thicknesses. Air-filled base foam balls. They provide significant indicators of the thermal efficiency of the material.
However, it is important to understand that it is thanks to this structure that the material is able to absorb up to 300% of its mass of water. Naturally, in this case, there is no trace of the former thermal efficiency.
Styrofoam does not allow the walls to "breathe", and after 5-7 years its thermal efficiency will decrease by about 8 times. This is confirmed by laboratory studies and is associated with destructive changes in the material (the appearance of cracks, cavities).
The main danger of using polystyrene foam as a heater is its tendency to actively burn with the release of extremely toxic substances into the air. In this regard, it is banned for use in construction in many European countries.
However, in fairness it should be noted that, due to its low weight, the foam does not require strengthening the facade, it is easy to install, and has a low cost. More modern variety Styrofoam is extruded polystyrene foam. Thanks to the technological features of production, the material managed to eliminate many of the shortcomings of the non-foamed analogue.
The extruded material also consists of many smaller (compared to foam) air bubbles, each of which is isolated from the next. This increases the thermal efficiency of the material, as well as mechanical strength and moisture resistance.
The components of carbon dioxide or inert gases present in the composition somewhat increase the fire resistance of the extruded insulation, but it is not necessary to talk about its complete fire safety.
Due to the low vapor permeability, the material is suitable for use only as part of ventilated facades. At the same time, it is important to glue it tightly to the surface of the walls, avoiding gaps and cracks between the insulation and the wall.
Extruded polystyrene foam is good for insulating a basement or foundation. The increased strength of the material will ensure its resistance to soil pressure, and moisture resistance will protect it from getting wet and damaging the base.
polyurethane foam
The use of polyurethane foam is considered one of the most effective methods of thermal insulation, since in terms of its thermal insulation characteristics it significantly exceeds most thermal insulation materials. To achieve a positive effect, a layer of 2-3 cm is sufficient.
Polyurethane foam refers to liquid types of insulation that are applied by spraying. After hardening, a durable moisture-resistant layer is formed. Due to the improved adhesion of the material, such a monolithic “fur coat” is applied to almost any surface. An important advantage polyurethane foam is its fire resistance. Even when decomposed by high temperatures it does not release toxins.
It is worth noting the environmental friendliness of the coating. During spraying, the composition contains compounds hazardous to health, however, as they solidify, they evaporate. The material is not suitable for contact finishing (plastering, painting) as it is not possible to obtain a completely smooth and even surface during the spraying process.
Leveling the polyurethane "fur coat" (as well as its complete removal) is a very laborious process. Among the disadvantages is low vapor permeability. This necessitates enhanced facade ventilation. Polyurethane foam is not recommended for application to wooden walls, since in just 5-7 years the wood rots due to constant high humidity.
Mineral wool
Today, this material is becoming more widespread due to its versatility, good thermal insulation performance and affordability. Such a material is a randomly arranged fibers, between which air bubbles are contained in large volumes. It is they who provide not only a high thermal insulation effect, but also good sound insulation.
When insulating facades, glass and basalt wool are usually used. The first one is based on cullet and quartz sand, which are melted. Long and thin fibers are formed from the semi-liquid mass, after which they are given the necessary shape (mats, rolls).
Glass wool is plastic, which, firstly, makes it easy to transport and store, and secondly, it can be used on uneven surfaces. The material is pressed and packed into compact boxes or rolls. After opening the package, the material assumes the intended shape and volume. In addition, due to its elasticity, glass wool insulation is optimal for facing wall surfaces with complex configurations.
The material does not fade, does not attract rodents or pathogenic microflora (fungi, insects). The combustion temperature is 500 degrees, which allows us to speak of a low flammability class of the material. A definite plus is its affordable price.
A significant disadvantage of glass wool is its hygroscopicity. It is clear that when wet, the material loses its technical characteristics. In this regard, when using insulation, it is important to consider reliable waterproofing or the possibility of regular ventilation.
glass elements, being amorphous, stick together during operation. This causes shrinkage of the material - over time it becomes thinner, which negatively affects its thermal insulation abilities. Finally, glass wool fibers have cutting edges. They penetrate the skin, causing irritation.
In addition, rising into the air, glass wool particles enter the upper respiratory tract and on the surface of the mucous membranes, also causing swelling and irritation. To work with insulation, you must purchase a special suit, goggles, gloves and a respirator.
More attractive in terms of installation and specifications is basalt wool. It is also called stone, which is explained by the peculiarities of the composition. Cotton wool is produced from molten rocks (basalt, dolomite). The heating temperature reaches 1300-1500 degrees. Fibers are also drawn from the melted raw material, from which mats are formed. Those, in turn, are subjected to pressing and additional heat treatment to obtain strength and geometric accuracy of forms.
Basalt wool is superior in its thermal efficiency to fiberglass of similar density. Stone wool is characterized by excellent vapor permeability and high water resistance (due to special fiber impregnation). Despite the density of the mats, they are easily cut with a construction knife. In this case, the adhesive composition can be applied directly to the wool, as well as laying the plaster layer (after reinforcing the wool).
The fibers of basalt insulation are less brittle and do not prick. It is easier to work with the material, although you should not refuse a respirator. Like all mineral wool insulation, stone wool generates dust during installation, which negatively affects the state of the respiratory system.
Liquid products
When applied, liquid heaters look like paint. However, they contain evacuated voids, thanks to which amazingly low thermal conductivity values are achieved (by fractions of a thousandth, they exceed only the thermal conductivity of vacuum).
It is worth noting the ease of application and good adhesion with most building materials. The compositions are applied as paint coatings with brushes or rollers. Hardening time - on average, 6-8 hours. After that, an attractive externally, fire-resistant, environmentally friendly surface is formed. The liquid coating also protects the walls from negative atmospheric effects, has anti-corrosion characteristics.
Bulk types
Used to fill wall cavities or create solutions with thermal insulation properties. The oldest loose heat insulator is expanded clay, which is "balls" of fired clay of different fractions. Due to the porous structure, the material has good thermal insulation properties. In the process of sintering, it acquires surface strength. In combination with low weight, this expands the scope of expanded clay.
The advantage of the material is its non-hygroscopicity (despite the porous structure), fire resistance (does not burn, does not emit toxins during heating), biostability (does not become a habitat for any form of life, home or food for rodents), environmental friendliness and affordable price. When using expanded clay, it is important to fill it with a thick layer, use a multi-layer structure or large hollow blocks. This is the only way to achieve high-quality insulation.
A more modern bulk insulation is vermiculite. It is based on hydromica, which is subjected to high-temperature firing. As a result, it swells, turning into layered granules with a large number of pores.
It has a low coefficient of thermal conductivity, fire resistance and durability. The only drawback is the high cost (on average, 7000-10000 rubles per m3 of vermiculite). The optimal solution in this regard is the addition of granules to the composition of the plaster mixture to obtain a "warm plaster". Due to its high vapor permeability, such plaster is successfully used on different types of surfaces.
No less effective is the use of expanded perlite sand. The raw material is volcanic glass, which, after firing, forms fine and light porous sand.
Ready product it is characterized by high thermal insulation values (due to low density and gas content), fire resistance. Fine powder is found in perlite, which makes it quite difficult to work with it - the process promises to be troublesome and dusty. Best Solution- mixing it into concrete or masonry mortars.
The use of the latter provides high-quality thermal insulation and reduces the risk of the formation of "cold bridges", since the solution penetrates into the joints between bricks or blocks, fills cracks and voids. Perlite is also used as part of " warm plasters”, the application of which not only copes with the function of thermal insulation of the house, but also acts as a finishing facade.
Criterias of choice
In addition to low thermal conductivity, insulation for external walls must be characterized by high fire resistance. The best materials are those that belong to the NG class (non-combustible materials) or have a low flammability class (G1, G2). Fortunately, most materials are self-extinguishing, that is, they do not burn with an open flame.
However, modern synthetic-based insulation (and most of them) can emit hazardous combustion products during smoldering. According to statistics, it is they who cause human casualties in case of fire. For this reason, it is important to choose not only flame retardant material, but also to make sure that during combustion it does not emit toxic elements.
Another important criterion is the vapor permeability of the insulation. When insulating walls, it is important to bring the "dew point" to the outer layer of insulation. This point is a linearly changing boundary, which accounts for the transition of moisture from one state of aggregation to another, or rather, from vapor to liquid. The liquid, in turn, leads to wetting of the walls and insulation, after which the latter ceases to cope with its functions.
The walls get wet, erosion and other damage occur on them, zones of high humidity are found inside the house, which leads to dampening of the walls, the appearance of mold, and nesting of insects. To avoid such troubles allows the choice of insulation with high rates of vapor barrier and moisture resistance and, of course, the competent organization of the heat-insulating "pie" with the obligatory use of a vapor barrier film or membrane.
When choosing a heater, it is important to consider the material of the cladding. So, for brick walls, you can purchase polystyrene foam, while it is imperative to provide a ventilation system. Under the wet facade is traditionally used stone wool or styrofoam. Under hinged facades- mineral wool insulation, as well as under wooden buildings.
It is important to take into account the features of the operation of a suburban building. So, as a heater in the country, where you live only in the summer, extruded polystyrene foam is quite suitable. If you finish it with plaster, it will turn out to equip the facade cheaply and beautifully.
But polystyrene cannot be used to insulate walls made of aerated concrete. A good solution would be the use of mineral wool insulation and further finishing with siding. By the way, this option is also optimal for cinder block houses and expanded clay concrete walls. An arbolite house built from blocks with a thickness of 30 cm or more can not be insulated. The exception is living in a region with a harsh climate.
Preparatory work
Preparatory work involves the selection and purchase of insulation. It is important to correctly calculate its quantity (volume), as well as its thickness. If thermal insulation is carried out independently by the owner of the house, evenness and smoothness of the walls should be achieved.
To do this, communications are dismantled from their surface, protruding elements are knocked down, cement mortar cracks are filled. After that, the facade is primed in 2-3 layers. When organizing a ventilated system, a crate is mounted. When facing with brick, the foundation is strengthened.
Thickness calculation
With thermal insulation, it is important not only to choose the right insulation, but also to calculate its required thickness. Using an excessively thin layer will not solve the problem of heat loss. An unreasonably thick layer will lead to an excessive load on the walls, an unreasonable increase in the cost of work.
There is a special formula to calculate the thickness of the insulation, but it can be difficult for a non-professional to work on it. To simplify the calculation process allows knowledge of the regulatory requirements for the thickness of the walls. So, for brick walls, this thickness is 210 cm, for wooden ones - 53 cm. Next, you need to find out the thickness of the walls in own house, by subtracting to establish how many cm are missing from the normative indicators.
Mounting technology
Most modern heaters are versatile and suitable for mounting from the street to stone, concrete, wooden surfaces, block bases. As a finish, both decorative compositions and tiles, panels and siding for tiles and natural finishing materials are used.
The installation technology varies depending on the organization of the facade system and the materials used. A little higher, it was already said about 3 possible ways to arrange an insulated facade:
- thermal insulation under plaster;
- ventilated facade;
- three-layer facade.
When insulating walls, it is important to take care of the insulation of its basement. It is through the plinth that most of heat loss. As insulation is suitable expanded polystyrene foam, polyurethane foam, basalt insulation.
The surface of the plinth is cleaned of facade coating, dirt, if necessary, reinforced, necessarily leveled, primed. Next, the insulation is fixed in accordance with the technological recommendations for its installation.
