Types of Roof Insulation

Insulation must integrate well with the roof assembly and work in harmony with the structural deck. This ensures successful, long-term roof performance. Poor roof insulation choices can negatively impact roof performance. Here are the main types of roof insulation.

Glasswool Insulation

Glasswool roof insulation is a thermal insulating material that regulates indoor temperatures. The glass wool prevents heat transfer between the roof and the interior of a building. The material contains fine fibers of glass. The fine fibers are compressed to form an insulating blanket. This material is commonly installed within the roof cavities of buildings.

Glass wool insulation can trap air pockets within its fibrous structure. These air pockets act as barriers to slow the conduction and convection of heat. Glass wool insulation restricts the heat flow to maintain comfort indoors. This reduces the need for excessive heating or cooling.

The installation process involves carefully fitting the glass wool material between roof joists. The installer ensures complete coverage without leaving any gaps. The material's lightweight nature and flexibility make it easy to work with. This enables a seamless application.

Wood Fiber

Roof wood fiber insulation is made from wood fibers. The material is processed and treated to enhance its thermal and insulating properties. Roof wood fiber insulation is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional insulation materials. The material is sourced from sustainable forestry practices. It also does not require significant energy consumption during production.

This insulation material regulates indoor temperatures by reducing heat transfer through the roof. This keeps buildings cool in hot weather and warmer during colder months. Additionally, roof wood fiber insulation also offers excellent sound absorption. This contributes to a quieter and more comfortable living or working environment.

Wood fiber insulation forms a continuous layer between the roof structure and the outer covering. The layer prevents air leaks and creates a more energy-efficient building envelope. It is lightweight and relatively easy to handle, making installation processes less labor-intensive. 

In addition, wood fiber insulation contributes to energy savings and lowers the carbon footprint. The material also promotes sustainable construction practices. This makes it a popular choice among environmentally-conscious builders and homeowners.

Gypsum Cover Boards

Gypsum cover boards consist of gypsum, a naturally occurring mineral. The material has fire-resistant and moisture-resistant properties. Roofing professionals install them over the thermal insulation layer on roofs.

Gypsum cover boards provide a strong and stable substrate for the roofing membrane. They protect the insulation from damage during construction or from foot traffic. This improves the longevity of the roof. 

These boards are available in various thicknesses and types. You can choose from standard and glass-faced, catering to different roofing requirements.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass roof insulation is a material that improves the energy efficiency of buildings. The glass consists of fine fibers made from glass. The fibers are woven into a dense and flexible mat-like structure. 

This insulation traps pockets of air within its fibers to create a barrier. The barrier resists the transfer of heat between the interior and exterior of a building.

Construction workers unroll the material between the roof rafters or joists. The workers ensure a snug fit to cut air gaps. 

The benefits of fiberglass roof insulation are manifold. The material reduces heat loss during colder months. It also limits heat gain in warmer seasons.

Perlite Cover Boards

Perlite is a naturally occurring volcanic glass. The material expands through a heating process to have excellent insulating capabilities. These porous structures trap air within their cells and inhibit heat transmission.

The perlite cover boards reflect much solar radiation when placed on the roof surface. Such prevents the heat from being absorbed by the roofing system.

If you're looking for roofing services, All American Roofing Incorporated can help. We are a full-service commercial, industrial, and residential roofing company. Contact us today for professional roofing services.