Insulation is a fundamental element in industrial and commercial construction as it drives energy efficiency, savings, structural integrity and occupant comfort. Our expert team of shed builders knows the right insulation in the right application can significantly reduce energy costs while optimising comfort.
Various types of insulation are available in Australia and it helps to understand their composition, installation methods and where they can be installed.
Unmasking the Magic of Insulation
Insulation acts as a barrier to energy transfer, e.g. heat and sound. This reduces the amount of energy needed for heating and cooling.
Proper insulation helps significantly in our varying climate to keep buildings cool in summer and interiors warm in winter. This dramatically reduces the reliance on non-eco-friendly air conditioning systems.
Further, insulation minimises temperature fluctuations, creating a stable indoor environment. This is particularly important for warehouses, manufacturing facilities, computer server rooms and large commercial spaces where temperature control is vital for both equipment and personnel.
Insulation also improves acoustics by dampening external noise and internally-generated noise, which is beneficial for office buildings, factories and retail spaces.
Last, but by no means least, insulation can assist with preventing condensation, reducing the risk of mould growth and related illnesses and structural deterioration.
Types of Insulation Available
Glass Wool Insulation:
Composition: Recycled glass and sand, formed into batts or rolls, bound with resin.
Installation: Installed in walls, ceilings and roofs as batts or loose-fill insulation.
Rock Wool Insulation:
Composition: Basalt rock melted at high temperatures and spun into fibres.
Installation: Used in walls, ceilings and around piping and ductwork.
Rigid Foam Insulation (Polyisocyanurate or Expanded Polystyrene):
Composition: Synthetic polymers, e.g. polyisocyanurate (PIR) or expanded polystyrene (EPS).
Installation: Applied to floors, walls and roofs as rigid panels.
Spray Foam Insulation (Polyurethane):
Composition: Polyurethane mixed with a foaming agent.
Installation: Sprayed directly onto surfaces, expanding to fill gaps and seal leaks.
Does Insulation Provide Fire Protection?
While some insulation materials, like rock wool and PIR foam, offer natural fire resistance, others require fireproofing treatments. Specialist fireproof insulation, such as intumescent coatings and fire-rated panels, will improve safety.
It is essential to integrate fireproofing measures into the overall building design rather than relying solely on insulation for protection.
When Should Insulation Be Updated?
Regular inspections can identify when insulation needs replacing. Signs of deterioration include:
Increased Energy Bills: Poor insulation leads to heat loss, increasing heating and cooling costs.
Moisture Damage: Wet insulation loses effectiveness and can lead to mould growth.
Settling or Compression: Some insulation materials, like loose-fill and fibreglass batts, may settle over time, reducing performance.
Upgrading insulation improves energy efficiency, enhances comfort and ensures long-term cost savings.
Industrial and commercial shed builders should prioritise high-quality insulation in the right application to create comfortable, energy-efficient structures.
If you’re considering a new build, the Blackbird Industries team can help design a well-insulated industrial shed or commercial building that meets your specifications, usage and budget requirements. Chat with our experts today.