Rakennuseristyksessä

Rakennuseristyksessä, or building insulation in English, refers to the process and materials used to reduce heat transfer in a building. This is crucial for maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures year-round, improving energy efficiency, and preventing issues like condensation and mold growth. Proper insulation helps keep heat inside during the winter and outside during the summer, thereby reducing the need for heating and cooling.

There are various types of insulation materials commonly used in construction. These include mineral wool (rock wool and glass wool), which is made from spun molten rock or glass, offering good thermal and acoustic properties. Foam insulation, such as polyurethane foam (PUR) and polystyrene foam (EPS and XPS), is lightweight and provides excellent thermal resistance. Natural materials like cellulose, made from recycled paper, and wood fiber insulation are also gaining popularity due to their environmental benefits.

The application of insulation varies depending on the building component. Walls can be insulated from the inside or outside, or within cavities. Roofs and attics are particularly important areas for insulation due to significant heat loss through them. Floors, especially those above unheated spaces or on the ground, also benefit from insulation. The choice of insulation material and method depends on factors such as climate, building design, cost, and desired performance. Building codes often specify minimum insulation requirements to ensure a certain level of energy performance.