Insulation Materials Used in Industrial Applications

May 24, 2016

When choosing insulation products for large buildings and industrial facilities, building science specialists (as well as engineers and architects) have a broad range of options available. While these professionals may debate on approach and strategy, many agree that spray foam insulation products consistently deliver superior performance - that includes air sealing, moisture control, and thermal insulation - all in a single application. Needless to say, in larger buildings and industrial facilities, saving on energy and operating costs is crucial to the bottom line. This is precisely where spray foam insulation delivers - applications are effective, efficient and economical. Primarily an insulation product, Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) is equally effective in wall systems, attic assemblies, and low slope roofing. It's a product strategy with superb results and a proven history. When specified, SPF installations require professionalism at the highest level. Contractors must be highly trained and industry certified, with acquired project experience to guarantee optimal performance for the building or facility. Whether it's a new building or a retrofit, the task at hand is to install a 100% impermeable air seal throughout the entire building envelope. SPF does it all - an air barrier, vapor barrier, and insulator in one. Industrial facilities and commercial buildings have very unique needs - far different than single-family or multi-unit residences. Amongst the countless dynamics, these large buildings have energy and utility demands that are mammoth, all of them affecting the economic viability of the building. However, building structures that are properly sealed, insulated, and ventilated are well positioned for markedly reduced operating costs. Highly regarded by professionals throughout the industry, Spray Polyurethane Foam delivers a total energy performance solution. Today, commercial and industrial buildings waste most of their energy as a result of inadequate air sealing, and unsatisfactory thermal insulation. Solving those air-sealing issues is probably the most cost-effective, least expensive measure available. It will enhance both energy performance and comfort. By effectively sealing air leakage, SPF applications often result in savings of 20% just on the costs of heating and air conditioning. In fact, in older building structures, the savings are far greater, simply because existing insulation lacks air barriers to begin with. The truth is, when a building or facility has an effective air barrier system, it's been shown that natural gas consumption and electricity usage are radically reduced every year. Without exaggeration, there are very few building materials that can compare with the attributes of Spray Polyurethane Foam. Indeed, for professionals who have energy efficiency pre-requisites or code compliance requirements, nothing comes close to SPF. When it comes to air tightness and thermal performance, architects, engineers, and builders have no better choice. It's an all-in-one solution for commercial and industrial buildings. Today, there is increasing emphasis on what experts call "continuous insulation" throughout a building envelope. More and more, industry building standards and building codes are referring to "continuous insulation" across all structural components, and without any thermal bridges. This is precisely what SPF provides - a complete system that satisfies building envelope needs, as well as heating and air conditioning requisites.