Insulation

Despite widespread publicity and government grant schemes, many buildings in the UK still have less than the recommended level of insulation.

Yet insulation is one of the easiest and most efficient methods of improving environmental performance.

Insulation can perform in two main areas: heat loss/gain and acoustics. There is stringent legislation governing both areas:

Approved Document L (Scotland Part J) - Conservation of fuel and power

• Recent changes to Part L introduce strict energy efficiency requirements for new builds and renovations.
• Compliance is based on thermal performance of the building as a whole, which makes the process more complex.

Approved Document E (Scotland Part H) - Resistance to the passage of sound

• Sets standards for the acoustic performance of all dwellings, including new build and where there has been a material change of use.
• Minimum performance standards are set for airborne sound insulation and impact sound insulation for walls, floors, partitions and stairs.
• Compliance is regulated through pre-completion acoustic testing in some cases, or meeting the test values set out in Robust Details, depending on the structure involved.

Insulation Materials

Insulation will reduce the energy consumption and the CO2 needed to heat a building, so virtually any form of insulation offers a contribution towards sustainability.

However, products such as Hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) blown foams are less attractive because of the ozone depletion and climate change effect from releasing HCFCs into the atmosphere during production and at end of life.

Jewson has a national network of specialist insulation and dry lining centres that offer:

• Comprehensive range of thermal, acoustic and fire protection products in stock.
• Expert advice on meeting the latest legislation.
• Efficient and reliable service.
• Full range of associated products.