Heat and Insulation

Insulation is a home installation that slows down the movement of heat from a hot section to a cooler part of the house. Insulation is important as it provides a stable temperature in your home.

Heat moves in different ways. Some examples of heat transfer are the following:

• 1. Radiation
• 2. Conduction
• 3. Convection

Radiation

Radiation works through electromagnetic light waves. It works in the same way as heat radiates from burning fire. Heat transfer through radiation cannot be seen by the naked eye. During the cold season, the heat from inside your home can pass through your windows and radiate outside the home.

Conduction

In conduction, heat moves and is transferred from one object to another. The molecules in an object get excited when heated and these molecules subsequently heat the molecules next to them. The more closely packed the molecules of an object are, the greater their capacity to transfer heat to other molecules. Metal is one of the best conductors of heat. A perfect example of conduction is when a spoon immersed in a hot soup also becomes hot eventually.

Convection

Convection is heat transfer that involves a fluid medium. Hot air or water transfers heat to an object that touches the fluid.

With insulation materials installed in a home, heat transfer, regardless of whether it is caused by radiation, conduction or convection, is prevented. Heat is absorbed by the insulation, thus, slowing its movement.

Insulation is a simple yet very important material in home construction. It is available in various materials like fiberglass and cellulose. Choose one that best suits your home.

The R-value: Measure of insulation capacity

The capacity of an insulation material to resist heat is measured in terms of R-value. The higher the R-value is, the greater the capacity of a material to insulate heat. R-value varies with the thickness of a material. Two materials with the same R-value have the same level of performance. Therefore, in choosing an insulation material, compare the R-values side by side. Also, take into consideration the prices of R-value per square foot. Insulation can deliver the same performance without the unnecessary additional cost.