Advantages of Continuous Insulation

• Interpret the Code Requirements for Building Envelope Design and Performance   
• Learn About the Science Behind Thermal, Air and Moisture Control for Steel Stud Construction   
  
• Discover How POLYISO Meets Requirements and Outperforms Traditional Methods for Optimum Control   
• Understand Building Sustainability and Longevity   
  
• Examine How Professionals are Looking to a Better Future

This was proposed by Public Works & Government Services Canada, Real Property Services, A&ES, Technology and Environmental Services and illustrates the distinction between the terms ‘service life’ and ‘durability’.  We need to ask if the actual service life is likely to meet or exceed the design service life.  This answer will reflect a prediction of service life based on component and whole building durability factors under specific service conditions.  None of the service life definitions deal with how long a building may actually stand, only with how long it will, or should, stand without unforeseen cost or disruption.  

Steel stud wall systems for residential and commercial buildings are gaining in popularity.  Very strong thermal bridges caused by highly conductive steel studs degrade the thermal performance of such walls. Several wall configurations have been developed to improve their thermal performance. 

Very often, thermal performance of the steel stud wall is compared with wood stud wall. A reduction of the in-cavity R-value caused by the wood studs is about 10% in wood stud walls. In steel stud walls, thermal bridges generated by the steel components, reduce their thermal performance by up to 55%. 

Relatively high R-values may be achieved by installing insulating sheathing, which is now widely recommended as the remedy for a weak thermal performance of steel stud walls.

WHY USE POLYISO WALL INSULATION?

1. High R-value per inch
2. Reflective R-value
3. Thinner profile
4. Fire resistance
5. Thermoset material 
6. Permeability range
7. Additional properties 
8. Easy to specify and install 

Often referred to as “POLYISO”, it is a closed-cell, rigid insulation board consisting of a foam plastic core sandwiched  between two facers.  

The facers are composed of various inorganic and organic  materials, usually aluminum foil, glass fiber or paper mats. The boards are typically manufactured in 4’x8’ panels, however, custom sizes are usually available.

*Approximate thicknesses, consult manufacturers for actual values

As a result, for POLYSIO the thicker it is, the more thermally efficient it gets. When comparing each of the materials, POLYISO has the greatest r value for each of the thicknesses stated. For example, when comparing XPS and POLYISO at a thickness of 2 inches, POLYISO will get 30% more r value. Overall, POLYISO is usually one of the top choices due to all of its benefits.

THE BUILDING

• Less energy usage
• Prolonged life of HVAC equipment
• Improved durability
• Reduced air infiltration
• Enhanced moisture control
• Smaller carbon footprint

THE OWNER/OCCUPANT

• Lower energy bills
• Enhanced occupant comfort
• Reduced building maintenance
• Improved indoor air quality with proper ventilation strategy

Building codes play a major role in determining which products can be used in a building.  Mandatory building codes set minimum performance thresholds for new construction and existing buildings including energy, air quality, fire protection and other areas to ensure safe and effective building operations.  Energy codes determine minimum insulation levels. 

The most effective approach to market transformation is to increase the “Pull". Recognize the urgency of the energy situation and the need for change. Some states and cities offer tax incentives for buildings that meet green building codes or become LEED certified.