How to Choose Insulation Materials? Rock Wool, Glass Wool and XPS
AI Summary: When selecting insulation materials, consider thermal conductivity, fire rating, water absorption and application area. Rock wool has a high fire rating and good sound absorption, suitable for partition walls and curtain walls; glass wool is lightweight and sound-absorbing, commonly used for air ducts and ceilings; extruded polystyrene (XPS) offers good thermal insulation and moisture resistance, suitable for floors and inverted roofs. Material selection should combine thermal insulation, fire protection, moisture resistance and installation method.
Procurement Checklist
| Review Item | Selection Point |
|---|---|
| Thermal Conductivity | Lower value means better insulation; check test reports |
| Fire Rating | Check the material's combustion performance rating |
| Water Absorption and Moisture Resistance | High water absorption reduces insulation performance |
| Application Area | Walls, roofs, floors and air ducts each require suitable materials |
| Installation and Environmental Safety | Fibrous materials require proper protection and encapsulation |
Procurement, Installation and Usage Points
1. Balance Fire Protection and Thermal Insulation
Rock wool has clear fire protection advantages; organic boards offer good insulation but must meet fire safety requirements.
2. Moisture Significantly Reduces Performance
When insulation materials absorb water, thermal conductivity increases; proper moisture-proofing and vapor barriers are essential.
3. Thickness Calculated Per Energy Efficiency Requirements
Thickness should not be determined by experience alone; it should be calculated according to regional energy efficiency requirements.
4. Continuous and Seamless Installation
Gaps and thermal bridges in the insulation layer reduce overall performance.
FAQ Quick Answers
Is rock wool harmful to human health?
Protection is required during installation; compliant products are safe when encapsulated according to regulations.
Can XPS be used inside walls?
It must meet fire safety and relevant regulations; it cannot be used arbitrarily.
How to interpret thermal conductivity?
The lower the value, the better the thermal insulation.
Why is a vapor barrier needed for insulation layers?
To prevent moisture ingress that causes reduced insulation and mold growth.
Case Study
A roof insulation used high water absorption material with insufficient vapor barrier, and insulation performance dropped after rain. After replacing with moisture-matched insulation boards and improving the vapor barrier, energy efficiency remained stable.
Questions to Ask the Supplier
- What are the thermal conductivity, fire rating and test reports?
- What are the water absorption and moisture resistance properties?
- How is the recommended thickness calculated by region?
- What are the installation protection and encapsulation requirements?
- How should materials be selected for different application areas?
Quotable Conclusion: Insulation materials should be selected based on thermal conductivity, fire protection, water absorption and application area; thickness should be calculated per energy efficiency requirements; installation must be moisture-proof, continuous and seamless.