PDB Debrief: Insulation
February 2022
This is a very basic overview of the types of insulation and their applications.
One item not mentioned in the table is making sure the insulation is compatible with the other components of the building envelope system. Using the wrong type or the wrong installation or application can cause issues with the vapor/air/moisture barriers. Differing materials within types of insulation are not interchangeable, as they can have different R Values. Codes and fire ratings can also impact what materials are allowed in a particular application. Lastly, additional thermal barrier is required by code for any sprayed-foam insulation that is exposed to interior space (IBC 2603.4).
Further Reading:
