Thermal Insulation in Buildings: How to Do and What are the Benefits?
Today, energy saving and environmental protection issues are gaining more and more importance. In this context, thermal insulation in buildings provides great economic and environmental benefits. So, what is thermal insulation in buildings, how is it done and what are its benefits?
In this content we have prepared as Haydar Boz, we will discuss in detail what thermal insulation in buildings is, how it is applied and the advantages it provides.
What is Thermal Insulation in Buildings?
Thermal insulation in buildings is the whole of the applications made to minimise the heat transfer between the internal and external environments of the building. Thermal insulation is carried out in order to maintain the temperature inside the building and to prevent the cold or hot air coming from the external environment from entering inside. Thanks to these applications, the interior of the buildings can be kept warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Thermal insulation is usually applied on building elements such as walls, roof, floor and windows. Various materials are used to insulate these elements. Materials such as glass wool, rock wool, polystyrene boards and polyurethane foam stand out among building insulation materials. These materials increase the energy efficiency of buildings with their high insulation properties.
Benefits of Thermal Insulation in Buildings
Thermal insulation in buildings provides benefits in many ways. Here are some of these benefits:
1. Energy Saving
Thermal insulation in buildings is one of the most effective ways to save energy. Thanks to thermal insulation, the amount of energy spent for heating in winter and cooling in summer is reduced. This allows energy bills to decrease and save economically.
2. Environmental Protection
Reducing energy consumption means reducing the negative impact on the environment. Less use of fossil fuels contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and thus mitigates environmental problems such as global warming and climate change. Building insulation is an environmentally friendly application in this respect.
3. Comfortable Living Spaces
Thermal insulation makes indoor temperatures more balanced. In the winter months, the indoor environment becomes warmer because cold air cannot enter, while in the summer months, hot air stays outside and the indoor environment becomes cooler. This contributes to the creation of comfortable and healthy living spaces.
4. Extension of Building Life
Thermal insulation in buildings also helps to protect building elements. Insulation materials protect building surfaces from external factors and extend the life of building materials. In particular, moisture and humidity are prevented from leaking into the building, ensuring longer life of the buildings.
5. Value Increase
Buildings with thermal insulation can have a higher market value. Buildings with high energy efficiency become more attractive for buyers. Therefore, thermal insulation can be considered as an investment and can increase the value of real estate.
How is Thermal Insulation in Buildings?
Thermal insulation in buildings requires careful planning and implementation. Here are the steps on how to make thermal insulation:
1. Selection of Insulation Materials
The first step is to select suitable insulation materials. Insulation materials differ according to the area of use. For example, glass wool or rock wool can be preferred for roof insulation, while polystyrene boards or polyurethane foam can be used for wall insulation.
2. Determination of Application Areas
In order for thermal insulation to be effective, it should be correctly determined to which areas it will be applied. Generally, external walls, roof, floor and windows are the main areas to be insulated. Insulation on external walls is called building jacketing and greatly increases energy efficiency.
3. Surface Preparation
The surfaces to be insulated must be smooth and clean. Cracks, holes or roughness on the surface should be removed and the surface insulation material should be made applicable. This stage is important for the insulation to be long-lasting and effective.
4. Application of Insulation Materials
Insulation materials are applied to the specified surfaces with appropriate techniques. For wall insulation, polystyrene plates are fixed with adhesive or mechanical fasteners. For roof insulation, glass wool or rock wool is laid and vapour barrier membranes are applied on it. Polyurethane foam is generally used for floor insulation.
5. Coating and Finishing
After the insulation materials are applied, the surfaces are covered with suitable coating materials. While decorative coatings or plasters can be used on exterior facades, plasterboard or similar coating materials are preferred indoors. These coatings both provide an aesthetic appearance and protect the insulation materials from external factors.
6. Maintenance and Control
After the thermal insulation is made, maintenance and control should be carried out at certain intervals. In case of damage or wear of insulation materials, necessary repairs should be made and the effectiveness of the insulation should be maintained. In this way, long life of the insulation is ensured.
Thermal insulation in buildings provides many benefits such as energy saving, environmental protection, comfortable living spaces, prolonged building life and increased value. Thermal insulation can be made in buildings by choosing the right insulation materials and with a careful application process. Thermal insulation is an important investment both individually and socially and will maintain its importance in the future. Thanks to thermal insulation in buildings, it is possible to contribute to a more sustainable and livable environment.