Steel Building Insulation Types

Steel buildings are made from sheets of metal fastened to a steel frame. They are fairly low-cost and can be constructed much more quickly than traditional buildings. Because the walls in a metal building consist only of thin steel sheets, the temperature inside the building can be difficult to control. Fortunately, there are a number of types of insulation that can be used to help regulate temperature within the building. Insulation can also help prevent excess moisture and control sound transmission through the building's walls.

R-Value

When selecting insulation, one of the most important criteria to evaluate is the product's R-value. R-value measures the thermal resistance of a material, which is the material's ability to block heat transmission. Higher R-values are associated with higher levels of thermal resistance, meaning that the best insulators are those with the highest R-value. It's important to note that the R-value associated with a material is only valid when the product is installed under the manufacturer's specified conditions.

Batt Insulation

Fiberglass batts are one of the most common types of insulation used with steel buildings. They are among the most affordable types of insulation, and can be installed quickly and easily. The R-value of fiberglass is measured based on the thickness that is used. A two inch layer of fiberglass has an R-value of 7, while a six inch layer has an R-value of 19. The material should fit loosely into the space where it is installed, as it tends to lose its effectiveness when compressed.

Rigid Foam

Rigid foam is another common steel building insulator. It is made from sheets of polyurethane or polystyrene, and is typically more expensive than fiberglass batts. Rigid foam insulation has an R-value between 4 and 8 per inch, depending on the type of material purchased. It is considered a superior insulator because it will not sag like batt insulation, and tends to leave fewer gaps, which reduces air leaks. Foam board is also easy to install, and can be used effectively even in small spaces.

Faced Insulation

Many steel building owners choose faced insulation over traditional batts. Faced insulation consists of cotton or fiberglass batts that are coated with a vinyl or polypropylene coating. This coating helps improve the R-value of the material while adding some aesthetic appeal to the building's interior walls. The use of faced insulation can significantly reduce the amount of moisture that enters the building, which can prevent problems with mold and mildew.

Fiberglass Metal Building Insulation

While many installers choose simple rolled batt insulation, there are other fiberglass insulation materials made specifically for steel buildings. They are known as fiberglass metal building insulations, and are pre-engineered to meet the standards set by the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association. These products come in pre-cut lengths designed to fit the metal panels used to create steel buildings, and are faced to accommodate the insulation needs of metal buildings in different climate zones.

References

• Fiberglass in Steel Buildings
• North American Insulation Manufacturer's Association
• Insulation for Steel Buildings