Choosing the Right Insulation for Your Industrial Property
There are five common types of insulation in industrial real estate. Find out the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Insulation Types
Industrial properties need insulation just like any other building type. Proper insulation will reduce heating and cooling cost, lower moisture retention, and reduce emissions, but it can also considerably dampen noise — which may particularly be a concern for, say, a manufacturing facility a short distance from a residential area.
There are several types of insulation available for industrial buildings, each with distinct benefits.
Spray Foam
Spray foam insulation gained popularity in the late 1980s, and it offers many benefits. It is relatively easy to install, and once it expands and sets, it holds its shape permanently, sealing open areas to prevent air from coming out or in. Its main downside is that it is relatively expensive compared to most other insulation types.
Fiberglass
Another very common insulation type, fiberglass — often used in rolls or pre-cut panels — is a cost-effective and relatively efficient material to use in virtually any kind of property. The material is flame resistant, and it is extremely flexible. Fiberglass insulation is also extremely effective as an acoustic insulator, reducing sound coming in or out of a building.
There are some notable downsides to fiberglass, however, especially when it comes to airflow. Fiberglass, as a less dense material, is not very effective at stopping drafts. Also due to its volume, it does not fare particularly well in moist environments and can even be affected by mold growth.
Radiant Barrier
Commonly used in roofs, radiant barrier insulation is a reflective material, similar to aluminum foil, that doesn’t absorb radiant heat, instead reflecting it back out. This type of insulation is particularly useful in summertime in warm climates, when the strength of the sun can cause temperatures inside a building to rise significantly. With radiant barrier surfaces, this heat from the sun is reflected back — generally onto nearby cooler surfaces — avoiding heat gain that would otherwise occur.
Although radiant barrier insulation can reduce cooling costs by as much as 10%, it generally needs to be accompanied by a cooling system to keep a building at its ideal temperature. This type of insulation may also require maintenance, as dust collecting on the panels can reduce their effectiveness.
Cellulose
Generally used only for walls, cellulose insulation is typically made from recycled paper products like cardboard or newspapers. Cellulose insulation can be installed in two ways — either dry via a blower or wet through a spray similar to spray foam insulation.
Cellulose insulation is relatively cheap and is extremely flexible, is able to be placed around most objects in walls, and is resistant to insect and rodent infestation. However, long term this insulation material does have some drawbacks, particularly relating to settling. The materials can, over time, pack down, allowing heat or cold to pass through more easily. Another disadvantage is related to moisture. As the material is largely comprised of cellulose, dampness can be a serious issue, leading to mold or mildew.
Vinyl
Vinyl insulation is made from polystyrene coated with PVC material, which is then glued in place on walls or ceilings. The price point for vinyl is relatively high compared to most other options, and the amount of insulation it provides is significantly lower than many other materials, like cellulose and spray foam. However, vinyl offers benefits in reducing thermal bridging — areas where heat or cold can transfer more easily — potentially more than other types.
Related Questions
What are the different types of insulation available for industrial properties?
The most common types of insulation for industrial properties are fiberglass, cellulose, and spray foam. Fiberglass insulation is the most common type of insulation used in industrial properties, as it is relatively inexpensive and easy to install. Cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper and is a great choice for soundproofing and energy efficiency. Spray foam insulation is a more expensive option, but it is highly effective at sealing air leaks and providing superior insulation.
What are the benefits of using insulation in an industrial property?
Insulation is an important factor to consider when investing in an industrial property. It can help reduce energy costs, improve the comfort of the building, and reduce noise levels. Insulation can also help protect the building from extreme temperatures, moisture, and other environmental factors. Additionally, insulation can help reduce the risk of fire and improve the safety of the building.
Insulation can be used in walls, ceilings, and floors of industrial buildings. It can also be used in the roof and around windows and doors. Insulation can be made from a variety of materials, including fiberglass, cellulose, and foam. The type of insulation used will depend on the climate, the building's purpose, and the budget.
For more information on insulation and industrial properties, please visit this article.
What factors should be considered when selecting insulation for an industrial property?
When selecting insulation for an industrial property, it is important to consider the type of insulation, the R-value, the thickness, and the cost. The type of insulation should be chosen based on the climate and the type of building. The R-value is a measure of the insulation's ability to resist heat flow, and the thickness should be chosen based on the climate and the type of building. The cost of the insulation should also be taken into account. Additionally, it is important to consider the environmental impact of the insulation, as some types of insulation may have a greater impact on the environment than others. For more information, see Types of Insulation from the U.S. Department of Energy.
What are the most common insulation materials used in industrial properties?
The most common insulation materials used in industrial properties are fiberglass, cellulose, and foam. Fiberglass is the most common type of insulation used in industrial buildings, as it is relatively inexpensive and easy to install. Cellulose is made from recycled paper products and is often used in walls and ceilings. Foam insulation is often used in areas that are difficult to access, such as around pipes and ducts.
For more information, please see this article from Energy Star.
What are the best insulation materials for industrial properties?
The best insulation materials for industrial properties depend on the type of industrial property and the climate. For example, in colder climates, fiberglass insulation is often used in warehouses and distribution centers, while in warmer climates, spray foam insulation is often used. Additionally, rigid foam insulation is often used in refrigeration and cold storage centers, and in data/communications centers, specialized insulation materials are often used to protect electronic equipment.
For more information, see Energy Star's guide to insulation for industrial buildings.
What are the installation requirements for insulation in an industrial property?
Insulation requirements for industrial properties vary depending on the type of industrial property and the intended use. For example, warehouses and distribution centers typically require insulation to maintain a consistent temperature and reduce energy costs. Refrigeration and cold storage centers require insulation to maintain the temperature of the facility. Flexible buildings may require insulation to reduce noise levels and maintain a comfortable temperature. Heavy manufacturing buildings may require insulation to reduce noise levels and protect against fire hazards. Light manufacturing buildings may require insulation to reduce noise levels and maintain a comfortable temperature. Data/communications centers may require insulation to reduce noise levels and protect against fire hazards.
For more information on insulation requirements for industrial properties, please refer to the U.S. Department of Energy's guide to insulation types.