Hszigetel

Hőszigetelés, sometimes written without diacritics as hszigetel, refers to the set of methods and materials used to reduce heat transfer between a building and its surroundings. The goal is to keep indoor temperatures stable with lower energy input for heating in winter and cooling in summer. Effective hőszigetelés improves comfort, lowers energy bills, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. In building practice, insulation is often combined with airtightness and ventilation strategies to control moisture and indoor air quality.

Common methods include external wall insulation (EWI), where insulating material is applied to the outside of a building; internal wall insulation (IWI); roof or attic insulation; and floor insulation. For renovations, retrofit solutions aim to minimize disruption and maintain structural integrity.

Materials vary by thermal performance, fire resistance, moisture handling, and environmental impact. Widely used options are mineral wool, expanded or extruded polystyrene (EPS, XPS), polyurethane foam, and cellulose. Natural fibers and recycled materials are also used. The choice depends on climate, climate zone, building type, cost, and compatibility with existing structures.

Performance is usually described by the U-value (W/m²K) for a given element; lower U-values indicate better insulation. Requirements are set by national and European standards and building codes, often in conjunction with requirements for air tightness and ventilation. Installation quality, moisture management, and potential condensation risk are critical considerations; gaps, thermal bridging, or improper ventilation can undermine effectiveness.

Environmental aspects include energy savings over the building’s life cycle, material durability, and end-of-life disposal. Hőszigetelés remains a central element of energy-efficient building design.