What insulation is best for the roof of the house. Which insulation is better for the roof: overview, types, features and reviews

There are many requirements for roof insulation: exceptionally light, non-shrinking and non-flammable building materials with a long service life are suitable for this design. In winter, thermal insulation is constantly in contact with cold roof, to provide reliable protection against losses, it must have good insulating properties. The second important function is to extend the life of the rafters: the material allows air to pass to them while being closed from moisture. The combination of these requirements leads to an inevitable increase in cost, there is no ideal variety in terms of "price-quality", the final choice depends on the conditions and budget.

Overview and description of materials

The best performance is observed in a multi-layer cake in the truss system. As an insulating layer, they use products with a loose, fibrous or cellular structure: glass wool, polystyrene, XPS, polyurethane foam, ecowool. When warming flat roofs preference is given to high-density types: foam glass, extruded polystyrene foam, ultra-rigid grades of stone wool. Bulk thermal insulation (expanded clay, foam plastic granules) can only be chosen when arranging attic floors or building a roof from scratch.

1. Styrofoam.

Conventional grades of foam are used only with a limited budget, with low weight and good insulating properties, it is not suitable for it temperature regime. Installation is carried out from the inside of the roof, important requirements include the absence of gaps at the joints and areas adjacent to the rafters and Mauerlat. Due to poor permeability and flammability, this insulation is not recommended for use in residential attics (at least without thoughtful ventilation), low strength does not allow its use in loaded flat roofs.

The extruded variety has the same disadvantages in terms of flammability and permeability, but due to its increased moisture resistance and density, it is excellent for inverted roofs. The problem of flammability in this case is solved by coating the plates with a thin layer. cement screed. The pluses also include the presence of an L-shaped edge, which minimizes cold bridges, the minuses - the cost is above average.

2. Mineral wool: stone and fiberglass.

Ideal for mansard roofs, used in multilayer roofing cake and allows structures to breathe. The basis is non-combustible materials, the standard flammability group for glass wool and basalt slabs is NG and G1. Insulating properties provide reliable protection of the house from external noise and heat loss through the roof with a relatively small thickness of the layer. This variety is definitely recommended to choose when covering the roof with corrugated board or metal tiles.

For quick insulation of the inter-rafter space, it is worth buying a light and elastic rolled mineral wool. Such grades are characterized by a high degree of compressibility (up to 60%), which simplifies the transportation and lifting of the material up. For attic walls and internal installation, it is better to buy thermal insulation in medium-density slabs, for flat loaded roofs - the same, but more rigid (above 90 kg / m3) and then placed under a screed or waterproofing. Positive reviews have universal plates with a springy edge, perfectly adjacent to the rafters. The only operational disadvantage is the need for reliable protection against condensate and steam penetrating from below.

3. Cellulose.

This building material has a loose base and is made from recycled cardboard processed products impregnated with antiseptics and flame retardants. It is permeable to air, but is not afraid of excess moisture and regulates the microclimate in the space under the roof. The insulating properties are high: 5 mm ecowool absorbs up to 63 dB, the thermal conductivity depends on the density, but does not exceed 0.041 W / m K. It is recommended to choose for warming attic floors along logs, mansard roofs, pitched roofs with boards and other multilayer structures nailed to the underside of the rafters in a continuous layer.

The use of ecowool allows you to get a seamless layer that is not afraid of fire, fungus, UV and accidental moisture, there is a significant savings on vapor barrier materials. The disadvantages include the impossibility self-assembly and the need for specialized equipment. Regardless of the chosen method of thermal insulation (blowing or wet-adhesive spraying), the costs will be large due to the complexity of the design. The second disadvantage is shrinkage, to prevent the formation of cold bridges under the roof, the minimum allowable density of ecowool is 55 kg / m3.

4. Description of properties of polyurethane foam.

PPU with a closed structure is well suited for protecting attics and roofs from the inside, this insulation is considered one of the best in terms of moisture resistance and heat retention. The minimum durability of this material reaches 30 years, and all this time it reliably protects truss system, ensures tightness and absence of fungus. Exist different types polyurethane foam, it can be used in the form of plates, but best reviews has sprayable. The latter is due to the absence of seams and waste. The method is suitable for roofs under construction and already in operation, the maximum effect is observed with thermal insulation of mansard roofs with a complex shape.

The controversial points include flammability: PPU in this regard better than foam, flame does not spread over its surface, when an open fire is eliminated, after a few seconds it dies out by itself. But it cannot be attributed to completely fireproof roof insulation, the standard group for cheap brands is G3. Some companies claim to use polyurethane foam with G2 and G1 flammability, in this case it is important to check for the appropriate certificate. The problem is completely solved by coating the surface of the cured foam with special compounds that simultaneously cover the foam from UV exposure, but they are expensive.

This type has no operational shortcomings, low vapor permeability in this case does not play a special role and is assessed rather positively in our review (roof structures are protected), thoughtful ventilation is required only in residential attics. The main limitation of application is the high price. PPU is applied using special equipment, a layer of 50 mm with an average density of up to 36 kg / m3 costs the owner 700 rubles per 1 m2, and if necessary, creating a thicker layer is even more expensive.

5. Expanded clay.

Bulk insulation for roofs, poured from the outside. It is used in flat roofs with subsequent waterproofing and screed or in structures with a slight slope. The first application option, in addition to improving thermal resistance, allows you to strengthen the roof. Expanded clay is cheap and complies with fire safety standards. But it weighs a lot (the density of this material reaches 600 kg / m3) and is inferior in thermal conductivity to cellular and fibrous varieties (the minimum calculated layer thickness is 20 cm). It is recommended to choose it only if you are confident in the bearing capacity of the walls and floors. Installation is most often carried out at the stage of construction or overhaul roof, it can be done on our own, but lifting the bags up requires considerable effort.

6. Foam glass.

It is used in the form of chips, slabs or blocks, according to its characteristics it is suitable for all types of roofing, the maximum effect is achieved with the thermal insulation of flat exploited roofs and in combination with soft rolled roofing materials. It is durable, non-flammable, durable insulation, not afraid of moisture, rodents and temperature changes. There are two disadvantages - the density is above average (200 kg / m3, with weak bearing capacity it is better to choose another option) and 2-3 times higher than the cost compared to other types.

What insulation to choose for the roof?

Preference is given to light grades with a density in the range of 25-45 kg / m3 and the longest possible service life (not less than the durability of roofing building materials). In any case, their thickness is calculated taking into account the required thermal resistance of the structure, depending on the region, and the thermal conductivity coefficient. It is not allowed to decrease the received value. Knowing this value, it is easy to find the volume of the insulating layer and the total weight of the insulation. In this regard, polyurethane foam, polystyrene foam and glass wool have proven themselves best.

When insulating mansard roofs and residential attics, the environmental safety of the material plays an important role. Ideally, the roofing cake breathes, and membrane films are used to prevent moisture from reaching the rafters and the inner layer. A suitable coefficient of vapor permeability has stone and fiberglass wool, ecowool, expanded clay, foam glass.

Ease of installation is important, especially when working from the inside. For quick placement in the space between the rafters, rolled fiberglass is excellent; slab grades are recommended to be laid in two layers with offset joints. If you need high-speed insulation from the inside, polyurethane foam would be an ideal option.

To insulate roofs with a zero or weak slope, moisture-resistant materials are required, compacted polystyrene foam has the best reviews in terms of price-quality. For inverted and loaded roofs, the recommended minimum compressive strength of the insulation is 0.4 MPa. This value is provided by extruded polystyrene foam with a density of 45 kg / m3, rigid basalt wool slabs from 90 (the higher, the better), foam glass and expanded clay with a cement screed.

When choosing a manufacturer, preference is given to trusted brands:

• Rockwool, TechnoNIKOL, Izorok and Parok for stone wool.
• Ursa, Knauf, Izover in fiberglass varieties.
• Penoplex, Ursa XPS, TechnoNIKOL for extruded polystyrene foam.
• Ecowool, Isoflok, Ecowool - for cellulose.

Attention is drawn to the integrity of the packaging and the absence of foreign odors, quality certificates are necessarily checked, confirming compliance with fire safety, sanitary and environmental standards, test results of insulating properties and strength characteristics.

Reviews

“Used cellulose wadding for roofing cake. He carried out the work at the time of the construction of the roof, applied it with a wet-adhesive method on a continuous layer of boards nailed to the underside of the rafters. The final thickness was about 15-16 cm, density - 65 kg / m3, he stuffed a wooden crate on top and deployed rolled waterproofing. Andulin was used as a roofing material. The cost of thermal insulation was high, but justified, there is no condensate in the attic, all building codes are observed.”

Grigory, St. Petersburg.

"Long searched good insulation for the walls and roof of the attic, settled on two layers of Rockwool Light Butts Scandic. The light slabs were well springy, there were no problems with installation in the frame and stuffing the crate. The disadvantages of the chosen option include the cost of vapor barrier films, but in general the result suited me, I don’t think I could have chosen a better option. A year has passed since the insulation was carried out, the plates hold heat and shape well, the room is being used.”

Sergei, Nizhny Novgorod.

“My house has an attic with a pitched ventilated roof. Built for a long time, used rolled glass wool. After 3 years, I noticed the loss of its insulating properties, after opening I found that it was all compressed and slid down. I decided to buy plates, in particular - Knauf insulation for the roof, inexpensive and moisture resistant. Laid in 2 layers of 100 and 50 mm, the width fits the step of the beams. So far I’m satisfied with the choice, 4 years have passed - it’s still warm inside the attic. ”

Andrey, Rostov-on-Don.

“I was building a large room for a carpentry workshop with a shed roof with a slope of 35 degrees. On the recommendation of a familiar builder, I decided to purchase basalt wool Parok in slabs. I laid them in 2 layers of 50 mm. Of the pluses, I can note an acceptable price, convenient dimensions and lightness, its edges did not crumble and deform. For 3 years there are no special remarks, there is shrinkage, but insignificant.

Edward, Moscow.

“When choosing insulation for a mansard roof, I settled on polyurethane foam and did not regret it. The work was carried out by specialists, for 65,000 rubles I received a dry, airtight and comfortable room. The whole process from applying thermal insulation to sheathing took a week, I did the finishing myself in order to save money. thermos effect and unpleasant odors no, there wasn’t, the roof endured the winter well.”

Yuri, Moscow region.

Price

View	Thermal conductivity coefficient, W/m K	Specific weight, kg	Vapor permeability, mg/m h Pa	Thickness cm	Price for 1 m2, rubles
Penoplex Roof	0,03	33	0,013	40	175
Ursa Geo Pitched Roof	0,035	20	0,61	15	230
Ecowool	0,032-0,041	65-70	0,3	5 cm wet	400
		55-65		15-20	3600 per 1 m3
Rigid spray foam	0,019-0,028	35	0,04-0,05	5	700
Expanded clay	Up to 0.16	400	0,18	20	From 1300 per m3
Foam glass	0,041	200	0,02-0,03	60	1400

The device of a roof is one of the most difficult and responsible stages in construction of the house. Today, a wide variety of roofing projects are being implemented, from simple pitched roofs to sophisticated hip structures. More and more attention during design is given to thermal insulation. It is from above that the cold most often penetrates into living quarters. And if earlier only the attic floor was insulated, now a lot of emphasis is placed on the thermal insulation of the truss system. This is due to the desire of homeowners to make an attic or living room under the roof. But the most best result gives a set of measures, including insulation and roofing, and ceilings. Experts identify several qualities that a roof insulation should have.

1. In the process of installing thermal insulation of the roof, it is important not to overload the truss system. Therefore, the material must be very light.
2. The main parameter for the insulation will be the thermal conductivity. It is selected taking into account the climatic features of the region. The lower the thermal conductivity, the better the insulating properties.
3. In roof structure necessary element there will be effective ventilation. Steam must freely leave the house, otherwise the properties of the insulation will deteriorate.
4. Birds, rodents, insects, as well as microorganisms can also break the thermal insulation layer. Therefore, preference should be given to biostable materials.
5. When installing a residential attic, you need to take care of sound insulation. best material will be one that combines heat and sound insulation qualities. And a permanent stay in the attic space will be safe only when using environmental heat insulators.

Our review includes the best roof insulation. When compiling the rating, the following criteria were taken into account:

• environmental friendliness of the material;
• thermal insulation properties;
• resistance to mechanical and biological destruction;
• price;
• expert opinion;
• consumer reviews.

TOP 7 best roof insulation

7 Styrofoam

Best price, lightness
Country Russia
Average price: 44 rubles. (12 sqm)
Rating (2019): 4.5

Styrofoam is considered a universal insulation, which is used at different stages of building a house. It should be noted that there are many brands that differ in density and graininess. So white foam PSB-15 is not suitable for laying on floors due to low strength. The exception is laying between the lags. But filling the space in the roofing pie is very convenient. Styrofoam attracts attention primarily due to its low price and low weight. The material is easily cut with a regular knife, and there are no problems with installation either.

Many users consciously purchase the cheapest heat insulator, understanding all its shortcomings. The material crumbles, breaks, decomposes. It cannot be precisely adjusted to each other, so you have to foam the resulting cracks. To ensure the fire safety of a dwelling, it is necessary to arrange a fireproof fence.

6 Foam glass

Innovative universal insulation
Country Russia
Average price: 13,600 rubles. (1 cubic meters)
Rating (2019): 4.5

Foam glass was invented a long time ago, but thanks to modern technologies managed to achieve unique properties. The innovation of the material lies in the honeycomb structure of the foamed silicate glass. The scope of the insulation is quite wide. When constructing a roof, slabs are usually used. Experts note a number of positive properties of insulation. This is safety for humans, because foam glass is made from environmentally friendly raw materials. The service life reaches 100 years, the material is not affected by microorganisms, is not destroyed by birds, rodents or insects. He is not afraid of climatic influences, the insulation does not deform under high loads. And you can cut the plates with an ordinary hacksaw.

As for the disadvantages, the main one will be the high price. Thermal insulation does not conduct steam, the material itself is quite heavy, and damaged areas cannot be restored.

5 Ecowool

The most environmentally friendly insulation
Country Russia
Average price: 840 rub. (2.4 kg or 2.4 sqm)
Rating (2019): 4.6

Ecowool is of great interest among consumers today. First of all, the insulation attracts attention with environmental friendliness. The main components of the heat insulator are paper and cardboard products. For the manufacture of ecowool, defective paper, cardboard waste, newspaper type waste paper are used. Antifungal and fireproof additives are also introduced into the composition, their volume reaches 20%. In addition to environmental friendliness, cellulose-based insulation has a high sound insulation rate. In the process of application, it is possible to fill all hard-to-reach places, forming a continuous thermal insulation.

Ecowool has its own characteristics, which are important to consider when installing a roof. Over time, the material decreases in volume, due to which there is an increase in thermal conductivity. Experts recommend laying 20-25% more insulation. So that ecowool does not absorb moisture, it is necessary to take care of effective ventilation.

4 Polyurethane foam

Solid thermal insulation layer
Country: USA
Average price: 2,190 rubles. (0.86 kg)
Rating (2019): 4.6

One of the most effective heaters for the roof is polyurethane foam. A feature of this material is the need for its spraying. The product is supplied as two liquids which are mixed before application. Working with PPU requires special equipment and protective clothing. After hardening, a continuous seam is formed, and the degree of thermal insulation can be adjusted by the thickness of the layer. Since PPU does not let steam through, it is first necessary to make a crate.

Polyurethane foam is a synthetic material, so rodents and insects do not damage it. The disadvantages of insulation experts include the high cost of coating. In addition, the service life of polyurethane foam is less than that of other roofing materials. Not the best and soundproof properties, so when installing the roof, you will have to mount an additional layer of sound absorber.

3 Expanded clay

Popular bulk insulation
Country Russia
Average price: 99 rubles. (0.55 cubic meters)
Rating (2019): 4.7

To insulate the attic floor, loose expanded clay heat insulator is often used. It is a pebble of a certain size with many pores inside. Expanded clay fills the space between the lags, forming a continuous sound and heat insulating layer. The high popularity of expanded clay is due to its affordable price and durability. This material is not afraid of moisture, it is not affected by mold or fungus, it does not make mouse nests. And the frost resistance of expanded clay allows it to be used in extreme climates. Since the insulation is made of clay, experts call environmental friendliness one of the advantages.

The disadvantages include the fragility of the granules, even when falling asleep, care must be taken. If expanded clay is damaged, its thermal conductivity deteriorates. And the scope of this insulation is limited to the ceilings of the house.

2 Mineral wool

Convenient installation, high popularity
Country Russia
Average price: 571 rubles. (0.75 sqm)
Rating (2019): 4.9

Has good heat and sound insulation properties mineral wool. Ease of installation is combined with an affordable price, which makes the material one of the most popular when performing roofing work. The undoubted advantages of mineral wool include fire safety and biostability. The material has been used in construction for a long time, but if earlier it was a fiberglass base, now environmentally friendly materials (basalt) are used. When installing a pitched roof, the slabs are inserted between the rafters, and the material can also be laid between the lags. For a flat roof, a more rigid mineral wool is used, the density of which reaches 140-160 kg / cu. m.

The heat insulator also has some disadvantages that are important to consider when installing a roof. When wet, the thermal conductivity doubles, so any leakage must be avoided. Over time, the insulation may crumble.

1 Foil Styrofoam

Warming and waterproofing
Country Russia
Average price: 645 rubles. (0.75 sqm)
Rating (2019): 4.9

The economic feasibility of the application often justifies the choice of such a heater as foil polystyrene foam. With it, you can not only keep the heat in the attic, but also put a reliable barrier to moisture. The basis of the insulation is extruded polystyrene, which resembles foam rubber in structure. The foil layer reflects up to 97% of thermal radiation, which makes the heat insulator one of the most effective. In addition, the material provides 100% waterproofing when properly installed. It is not difficult to choose the most suitable panel, their thickness ranges from 10 to 100 mm. It is convenient to lay the insulation, it is lightweight, easy to cut, easy to install.

A thin layer does not always provide the necessary thermal insulation, it is often necessary to mount another layer of insulation. Over time, the foil begins to oxidize, which leads to haze and deterioration of the reflective properties.

This article will talk about the use of insulation materials, without which heat loss is a third. This has a bad effect on the microclimate of the house, and also increases heating costs. To avoid this, you need to understand the types of materials on the market and buy roof insulation. You will learn about what tasks insulation should solve: reduce heat loss, create sound insulation and extend the life of roof structures.

Source it.decoratex.biz

Roof insulation features

The material used for insulation must meet the following requirements:

Long service life. It is important to choose a product that will last more than 30 years, then you will not have to return to construction work long period of time.

The ability to keep its shape and not deform. This characteristic indicates the high quality of the roof insulation, the price of which will be slightly higher.

The light weight makes it easy to transport and stack it on the roof. In addition, the load on structures will be reduced and the overall cost of the work will be reduced.

Fire resistance. The material must be made from non-combustible raw materials, which will increase the fire safety of the entire structure.

Moisture resistant. Moisture adversely affects the insulation, reducing its properties. The high quality of the material indicates its ability to withstand water.

Noise isolation. This is more of an additional feature, but if roofing material one that creates noise is chosen, then this will be an important plus.

Environmental Safety. You need to choose such thermal insulation that is odorless, does not emit harmful substances and is environmentally friendly.

When choosing a material, you need to know that the insulation on the roof of a house has a wide variation in price. The cost depends on the thickness, density of the type and manufacturer of the goods.

Source buildsystem.zakupka.com

What to look for when choosing a product

First of all, you need to determine whether the attic will be a full-fledged living space or not. If the answer is yes, then the walls, roof slopes and ceilings will have to be insulated. In the second option, only overlaps will be enough.

It is necessary to select the thickness of the product in accordance with the climate where it is planned to be used. For example, a material with a thickness of 150 mm is recommended to be used at temperatures not lower than -15 degrees. If you use it at lower temperatures, then condensation may occur, which adversely affects the finish of the room. In stores there is insulation for a roof of 150 mm at a price of 900 to 1500 rubles.

There are several options for thermal insulation and technologies for its manufacture. It is necessary to choose based on the type of roof, roofing material, building features and climatic conditions the region where it is planned to use a heater. Below are the main types that are on sale. To choose a product, you should familiarize yourself with its features, advantages and disadvantages.

Source koffkindom.ru

On our website you can find contacts of construction companies that offer turnkey insulation services for houses and adjacent buildings. You can directly communicate with representatives by visiting the exhibition of houses "Low-Rise Country".

Varieties of thermal insulation for the roof

For reliable protection of the roof from the cold, the following types of insulation are used:

Basalt wool slabs (price from 250 rubles to 1300 rubles, depending on the manufacturer). This is a natural material that is used for flat roofs and is laid on a concrete or metal base. The choice of products is carried out in accordance with the coefficient of density and thermal conductivity.

Source orai-vn.com

Glass wool is used on a flat or pitched roof (price from 500 rubles to 1440 rubles). It has high environmental friendliness and fire resistance. Suitable for use in wooden buildings, as well as those built from brick and foam concrete. Created on the premises comfortable microclimate However, insulation must be provided to prevent glass from getting on the skin and into the air.

Source etalonkomforta.ru

Extruded polystyrene foam is a cellular structure. It has high thermal efficiency. Due to its high moisture resistance, environmental friendliness and lack of shrinkage, the material is popular among buyers. In addition, it is easy to install, no special skills and knowledge are required. The cost of the material is from 900 rubles. up to 1600 rub.

Source: www.baidu.com

The lightest of all the presented heaters is foam. It is good to use it on the roofs of old buildings. Price from 815 rubles. up to 5000 rub.

Source matbuat.ru

Staple fiberglass is a material with good vapor permeability. Has a low cost. If you need a roof insulation that costs less than mineral wool, then choose fiberglass mats or slabs. Scope of application - insulation of attic rooms. The price ranges from 700 rubles. up to 1700 rub.

Source www.sommyincrease.com

Penofol is polyethylene with a foil base. With its help, they make thermal insulation of pitched roofs. Depending on the thickness of the material and the volume of the roll, the cost ranges from 700 rubles. up to 4000 rub.

Basalt wool insulates and isolates from noise

If you prefer natural materials, then you should buy a roof insulation made of basalt fibers.

Source: remontik.org

It has a number of undeniable advantages:

coefficient of thermal conductivity;

environmental friendliness and safety for humans;

withstands high temperatures;

the material is inert to chemicals;

moisture resistance;

fire safety;

vapor permeability;

relative cheapness of products;

high sound absorption.

These advantages make basalt wool in demand for insulation of roofs, floors, suspended ceilings and wooden floors. On sale, it is found in rolls, mats or slabs. It is important to know that for laying this material, the manufacture of a crate will be required. This mineral wool for roof insulation, the price of which ranges from 220 to 1300 rubles, is one of the cheapest options for roof insulation.

It might be interesting! In the article at the following link, read about.

Glass wool - an inexpensive material for roof insulation

The material is made from glass fibers that are melted. It also refers to safe natural products.

Source znatoktepla.ru

On sale you can find glass wool in rolls, mats or plates. Its advantages are the following qualities:

good thermal insulation;

high strength and elasticity;

low weight, which allows not to create additional load on the structure;

noise insulator;

resistant to moisture, corrosion, mold;

fireproof;

withstands high temperatures;

easy installation;

low cost;

durability.

If foil-coated boards are chosen, a vapor barrier layer is not required. When installing glass wool (the price range for work is 50 - 70 rubles / m2) without a foil layer, you must adhere to the following sequence of work:

A frame (crate) is created.

A membrane film is laid, fixed on the surface with a stapler.

Insulation boards are installed.

It is important to avoid contact of the material with the skin, as it causes irritation, so the work is carried out in overalls with the use of goggles and a respirator.

It might be interesting! In the article on the following link, read about: calculation examples for different heaters.

Modern durable material - extruded polystyrene foam

It is a lightweight synthetic product with a porous structure that has low moisture absorption and thermal conductivity. In addition, it is not amenable to mechanical stress and is chemically inert.

Source pro-uteplenie.ru

It is easy to lay polystyrene foam, you do not need to have special skills in construction. Long service life makes it popular among consumers. The low weight allows the use of this material in old buildings, since no additional load is created on the structures. It is used as a heater for a flat roof. It is also able to create additional sound insulation.

The advantages of extruded polystyrene foam are:

resistance to freezing and thawing (up to 1000 cycles);

can be used in the temperature range from -50 to +75 degrees;

ability to withstand heavy loads.

Source st-par.ru

The disadvantages of the material are vapor impermeability and flammability. Do not use it for warming soft flat roofs. The cost of work is about 70 rubles. per square meter. It fits in the following sequence:

A waterproofing layer is created.

A layer of plates is mounted, it is imperative to ensure a snug fit.

Joints are filled mounting foam and sealed with reinforced tape.

Video description

An example of roof insulation in the video:

It might be interesting! In the article at the following link, read about.

Conclusion

When choosing insulation for a roof, the fundamental factors are the climate of the region where it is planned to use the product, the material for the manufacture of the roof and its type (flat or pitched), structural features of the building, the price of the product and the ability to do without technical means and special skills. Given all these points, you can choose the right thermal insulation, which will last a long period of time and save on heating.

What kind of insulation is better to insulate the roof - it's up to the developer to decide. But first, you should answer the question of why attic thermal insulation is required. You should refer to the structural features of the roof covering with a slope. The coating is a system including a plurality of layers.

The design consists of a number of layers:

• insulating;
• warming;
• ventilation;
• waterproofing;
• external.

Some developers, trying to save on material, cut one layer, which is a gross mistake. The fact is that heat always rushes up, and in the case of poor-quality insulation of the roof, the warm flow will go beyond it. For this reason, the consumption of electricity or gas for heating will become uneconomical. Roof insulation (which is better and the price of the product) is the topic of this article.

The main criteria for heat-insulating substances

How to ensure high-quality thermal insulation? What is the best roof insulation? Any material for roof insulation must perform its function for many years and be safe for health.

The main properties of heaters include:

• low level of thermal conductivity;
• high rate of water resistance;
• biological stability;
• environmental cleanliness;
• no flammability.

How to identify a poorly insulated attic?

Determining a poorly insulated attic in winter is not difficult. If, at sub-zero temperatures, the snow on the roof begins to melt, this means that the thermal insulation was carried out poorly. Hot air contributed to the melting of the snow.

It should be noted that inadequate attic insulation will have a negative impact not only in winter, but also in summer. The burning sun heats the roof covering to a high temperature, and heat begins to penetrate into the room.

Features of materials for roof insulation

Speaking about which insulation is best for the roof, they pay attention to the level of thermal conductivity. This is the main indicator of the substance used for the roof. The lower its coefficient, the higher the quality of the material. Most of the thermal insulation materials used in modern construction, has an indicator below 0.04 W / (m ° C).

Each insulating substance has a certain thickness coefficient, from the level of which the developer proceeds when choosing a material. Climatic features must be taken into account.

• An important condition is the rigidity of the substance. Thanks to this indicator, the material will firmly adhere to the pitched roof and provide a quality fit to the rafters. If this rule is not observed, the roof becomes frosty and covered with icicles. This is due to the formation of "cold bridges".

But the indicator also has a negative side. The stiffer the material, the lower its level of thermal conductivity. When choosing a roofing material, you should find golden mean. The durability of the structure depends on the level of quality of the insulating substance, as well as compliance with the basic rules for covering the house with a roof.

• Water absorption is another very significant indicator. Moisture that accumulates in the substance has a negative effect on the ability to retain heat. For materials with high level water absorption, a waterproofing layer is required.
• steam permeability. At a high rate, steam will be deposited on the material, which will also reduce the level of thermal insulation. In this case, the installation of a steam reservoir is required. With a low value, such a layer will not be needed.
• The indicator of the volumetric weight of the insulation. A cubic meter of a substance can have a weight of 11 to 350 kg. The heavy substance makes the roof structure cumbersome. Such a roof is installed on the rafters and has increased rigidity. Lightweight materials are mounted in the frame and form a layer between the rafters and the crate.
• What is the best insulation for the roof of the house? Of course, one that does not ignite or decays itself when ignited. This characteristic is not leading when choosing a material, since a large-scale fire can destroy everything. It affects not only flammable substances, but even brickwork and structures made of reinforced concrete or metal.
• Sound isolation. Wool-based materials have a high soundproofing index. Foam products have a lower coefficient, but in combination these two substances give excellent result. The noise of rain and wind will not reach the household.
• What is the best insulation for the attic roof? When making a choice, one should pay attention to one more important quality that is not indicated in any of the technical specification to the product. This is the degree of preservation of its form. During the operation of the material, geometric proportions must be unchanged. Due to the curvature of the heat-insulating material, gaps are formed at its joints. In this way, about half of the total heat is lost. Therefore, shape stability plays a huge role when buying.

The best substances for the roof: fiberglass and basalt-based wool

Insulation is often required for pitched roof. Which better material in this case choose? The most popular is fiberglass and basalt-based wool in the form of slabs.

The basis of fiberglass is molten glass, and wool is basalt (molten stone). As a rule, phenol-formaldehyde resin is used to bond the fibers.

Basalt wool is produced in the form of slabs, mats and rolls. Due to the fibrous base, these insulators contain air, which prevents the penetration of heat or cold. The price per meter of glass mat is 220 rubles.

What is the best roof insulation? Reviews indicate that the advantage of basalt wool should include its rigidity. With the same stiffness index, the density of the substance is much higher than that of fiberglass. Also, the material has a high level of non-flammability, the limit of which reaches 1000 ° C and above. In glass wool, this characteristic is approximately twice as low. Its indicator is 650 ° C.

Unlike the installation of fiberglass, the installation of mineral wool does not require the use of special gloves and a respirator. The only drawback of a basalt product is its high cost. The price of basalt wool, depending on the manufacturer, ranges from 375 to 1007 rubles. for packing. It includes 8-10 layers. Layers of different firms are marked by size.

Important information

A layer of heat-insulating material based on basalt or fiberglass wool must have a thickness of up to 200 mm. Standard plates have a thickness of 50-100 mm. Therefore, in order to overlap the seams, it is recommended to overlap them. This will ensure the solidity of the contour in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bclosure of the roof and gables, as well as in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe Mauerlats.

Cons and pros of expanded polystyrene

The heat-shielding level of this substance exceeds the performance of wool-based heaters. Therefore, a layer of material based on expanded polystyrene will have a thinness. The advantages of the substance include a zero rate of water absorption and a high rate of rigidity and strength.

Special inclusions provide the substance with resistance against fire, but when ignited, the material releases toxic substances that pose a threat to health.

Expanded polystyrene-based heat insulators are not as popular as the substances described above. And there are reasons for this. Some advantages of the material, for example, its rigidity, can play a negative role under certain conditions.

Expanded polystyrene has a high degree of insulation efficiency in the form of a solid carpet of plates connected by means of grooves. This method of coating is optimal when used on roofs of a simple, gable and flat design. Expanded polystyrene does not absorb moisture and can serve as a heater and waterproofing. For roofs that are complex in shape, this material is not suitable.

The disadvantage of the product is its attractiveness to mice and rats. The price of the material is from 150 to 800 rubles. per square meter.

Advantages of extruded polystyrene foam

What is the best insulation for the roof, polystyrene foam or its extruded counterpart? The latter type is characterized by high quality characteristics. This is an innovative roof covering with a uniform structure. It consists of sealed cells, the size of which is 0.1-0.2 mm. For the purpose of its manufacture, polystyrene granules under the influence high pressure are mixed with a foaming agent (a mixture of freon and carbon dioxide), after which the contents are squeezed out of the extruder. The material has a low level of thermal conductivity.

It is characterized by:

• resistance to chemicals;
• lack of moisture absorption;
• high level of waterproofing strength, which prevents the growth of mold fungi.

When water enters, only the cells are filled. The water does not penetrate deeper.

Extruded polystyrene foam is environmentally friendly. Tests have shown that the material retains its technical parameters even after repeated freezing and thawing, which indicates its high degree of resistance to temperature changes. According to many experts, such a design can last at least half a century.

The material easily withstands the effects of alkalis, acids, chlorine, alcohol, alcohol-based dyes, cement, propane, butane, hydrocarbons, ammonia, saline solutions.

The cost of extruded material depends on its characteristics. On average, it ranges from 1106 to 1380 rubles. The package contains from 7 to 18 plates.

Environmentally friendly materials

What is the best roof insulation? Of course, on an environmentally friendly basis. Following extruded polystyrene foam, the line of materials safe for health is continued by ecological wool, which consists of more than one third of waste paper and wood. In addition to paper, straw and cork are included in the composition. Flame retardants are added to wood pulp. Therefore, when installing the roof covering, you should use a respirator. Ecological wool is the optimal material for roof insulation with a slope.

Its advantages include:

• low level of heat conductivity (from 0.036-0.045 W/mK);
• dense filling of the space between the rafters (no gaps remain);
• absorption of condensate by cellulose fiber;
• acceptable cost.

The price of the material is from 38 to 50 rubles. per kilogram.

Cotton insulation

Cotton-based roofing is environmentally friendly. Made in a factory from recycled denim. Laying plates and mats can be done by yourself without the use of protective equipment. This substance has a high degree of noise isolation, so it is often used in home theater equipment.

The disadvantage of the material is its high degree of flammability. For this reason, flame retardants are added to cotton during production. Cotton slabs are difficult to cut during installation, so installation takes a long time.

The price per package ranges from 385 to 1405 rubles. The package includes from 6 to 18 plates.

linen coating

It is also an environmentally friendly insulation that does not contain toxic substances. The material does not pose a health hazard and can be used in the construction of roofs in kindergartens, hospitals, clinics and schools.

The service life of the product is approximately 60 years. The product perfectly retains its characteristics, is not affected by mold fungus and insects. The heater does not ignite, does not emit toxic substances.

The price of the product ranges from 1200 to 1830 rubles. for packing.

The huge space under the roof of the house is now being turned not into a warehouse, but into a comfortable and spacious living space. But in order for the attic to be warm in winter and not hot in summer, it should be insulated in compliance with the technology. We will help you choose a budget-friendly, durable and easy-to-use heat insulator and familiarize you with the nuances of its use.

The building materials market offers many options for heat insulators, but sellers usually talk only about the merits of the material and rarely warn about the shortcomings. Therefore, it is important to understand which material and in what situation will be more preferable.

The effectiveness of heaters is very different: more modern material can have ten times less thickness with the same heat-insulating ability

The “correct” insulation must meet the following requirements:

• easy to install (since the roofs in our region are pitched, not flat, preference is given to materials that can be held on an inclined surface);
• be safe in installation and use (for example, glass wool unpleasantly pricks during installation, and polystyrene releases carcinogens when heated);
• do not support combustion (since the main roof structure is made of wood, the use of combustible insulation can lead to the rapid destruction of the house);
• have a low weight (any heat insulator is an additional load on the roof structure, walls and foundation);
• differ in small thickness (the larger the layer of heat insulator, the lower the ceiling height in the attic).

Styrofoam is one of the most popular heat insulators, as it is one of the cheapest. The slab material is convenient for transportation and installation, does not overload the roof structure, is completely unaffected by moisture, so it is not afraid of rot and mold.

Styrofoam - best option for external insulation, so it is worth choosing if the roof of your house is flat. It will help to insulate the roof without loss inner space. If you bought the attic above your apartment in high-rise building, then you can increase its height from 2.2–2.3 to 2.5–2.6 m only by transferring the heat insulator to the outer layer. True, for this you will have to agree on similar work with other residents of the upper floor or with the management company.

This material is quite dense, it is not afraid of water, so builders use foam plastic for thermal insulation of floors. Expanded polystyrene plates are poured into the screed when arranging the floor in the attic.

You will have to spend a lot of building foam to process all the cracks

However, with internal insulation of the roof between the rafters, shortcomings of the foam are found:

• the plates are not elastic, so there are gaps between them that must be blown out with mounting foam;
• expanded polystyrene interferes with the ventilation of rafters and other wooden frame elements, which can lead to their destruction by rot or fungus;
• polystyrene foam has a rather low degree of sound insulation, so if it is important for you to cut off unnecessary sounds, it is better to choose a less dense insulation;
• if the material thickness is incorrectly calculated, the dew point is inside the insulated space and the heat-insulating cake begins to collapse;
• modern polystyrene does not support combustion, but melts at high temperatures and releases toxic substances, so if a stove or fireplace pipe passes through the attic, it is better to isolate the space around it with another material.

In addition, polystyrene foam is unpleasant for many people to work with, because when cut and rubbed with hard surfaces, it makes repulsive sounds (a similar reaction is caused by the grinding of metal on glass).

Use foam plastic for external insulation of facades, roofs, ceilings and protect it from atmospheric influences. Only in such a situation, expanded polystyrene will provide reliable thermal insulation and will not show its shortcomings.

By the way, when equipping a green roof with grass and ornamental plants foam is used for thermal insulation, because it does not deform under the weight of subsequent layers of drainage and soil.

The green eco-friendly roof is not only beautiful, but also very warm, because there is foam under it

Roof insulation with foam

Penoplex from a chemical point of view is a new generation of foam. This material is produced in the form of rigid orange plates without visible granules. It differs from the usual polystyrene foam:

• tenon-groove edge, which helps to join the plates without gaps, so the seams do not need to be foamed and then cut the foam;
• higher density, due to which the roof increases resistance to snow loads;
• homogeneity, due to which the plate does not crumble when cut;
• lower thermal conductivity, which allows you to reliably isolate the slope with a 2-fold smaller layer of insulation and maintain the height of the ceiling in the attic.

From the older brother, penoplex inherited water and steam resistance, resistance to the influence of fungi and bacteria, the ability to serve for a long time and the absence of dust when cut. It can also be mounted in any weather and humidity level. It is allowed to install penoplex without insulating membranes.

In the roofing cake, when the roof is insulated with foam plastic, there may not be a hydro- and vapor barrier film

But despite all the efforts of the manufacturer to rid the material of flammability, the polymer remains dangerous in a fire. Of course, it will not ignite by itself and will not burn without direct contact with fire, but the smoke released during melting can poison the residents of the house.

Video: foam roof insulation technology

Polyurethane foam is also a close relative of expanded polystyrene, but unlike the latter, it is not sold ready-made. The chemical reaction that forms the pimples of the polymer takes place already on your roof, so polyurethane foam is guaranteed to fill the smallest gaps between the rafters. In addition to providing a uniform seamless coating, the material has other advantages:

• high heat, hydro and sound insulation without cold bridges with a moderately thick layer of material, which allows you to maintain the height of the ceiling (the final thickness is three times less than when using foam or cotton wool);
• no need for additional work (installation of fasteners, battens), sufficient dedusting and priming of the surface;
• fire safety (the material does not support combustion, does not melt at temperatures up to +220 ° C);
• suitable for the northernmost regions (normal operating temperature up to -150 ° C);
• not afraid of fungus and rot.

Experts note that if the material is protected from ultraviolet radiation, polyurethane foam insulation can last more than 30 years.

It is possible to insulate the roof with polyurethane foam not only inside, but also outside

What don't sellers say? For example, the fact that polyurethane foam should not be applied directly to the roofing material or the membrane adjacent to it. Since the foam adheres tightly to the base, it becomes impossible to equip the ventilation gap necessary for these materials, and the roof covering is slowly destroyed. Of course, it is possible to hem the slope with membrane-protected boards or OSB boards at a short distance from the main coating and apply foam to this sheathing. But such events will inevitably lead to a rise in the cost of the project, so some masters prefer not to mention the nuances when talking with homeowners.

Insulation with polyurethane foam is impossible without special equipment, so when comparing materials, consider the costs of the work of craftsmen. If you can do the laying of foam or cotton wool with your own hands, then you definitely won’t do the spraying of polyurethane foam yourself.

Considering all the requirements of the technology, polyurethane foam turns out to be a very good choice for all types of houses and roofs, because it is not without reason that in Europe and the USA it is considered the most popular heat insulator.

Video: how polyurethane foam is sprayed

Roof insulation with mineral wool

In our region, mineral wool is most often used to insulate a pitched roof. One of its main advantages is ease of installation. The technology is so simple that with its help even one adult with a teenage assistant can warm the slope. But the mineral wool is different:

• glass (glass wool). It is excellent for insulating heated elements (for example, chimneys and chimneys), as it can withstand heating up to 450 ° C. In addition, wool isolates extraneous noise, quickly restores its shape after shock and vibration. One of the main drawbacks of glass wool is flowability. While working with it, the master runs the risk of inhaling a huge amount of tiny fragments of glass fibers, and when cotton gets on the skin, the hands and feet begin to itch and turn red (this is not an allergy, but micro-scratches). As a result, installation has to be done in overalls and a respirator, which makes the process long and uncomfortable;
  

  Glass wool emits tiny particles of fibers interspersed with glass, which unpleasantly scratch open skin areas.

• stone (basalt wool). stone wool it is more resistant to moisture, does not cake so quickly and keeps its shape longer. Therefore, you can not be afraid that the heat insulator will eventually slide down the slope. In addition, basalt wool can be installed without personal protective equipment, it is safe for health and practically does not cause itching.
  

  Basalt wool is easy to distinguish by the brown-brown color of long strands.

Both types of cotton wool are produced in the form of mats of several standard sizes and in rolls. If the roof is simple and it is possible to adjust the sheathing pitch (and cell size) to the parameters of the mat, it is best to use soft slabs that will themselves stay in the cells. For roofs with complex slopes, ledges and bay windows, it is better to buy rolled wool, although it will require additional fastening.

Mineral wool - an effective material, but capricious in use. In particular, it should be protected from moisture from above and steam from below, as well as provide natural ventilation. Such requirements will result in additional costs for hydro and vapor barriers, and the work will take longer due to the construction of another crate.

Do not save on insulation by violating the mineral wool installation technology. It is better to properly insulate with cheap cotton wool than to leave an expensive one without ventilation.

Those who ignore the rules, after the first autumn, can admire the wet, rotting insulation and unpleasant cold in the attic. And if the situation is not corrected, the rafters will also begin to rot over time.

Video: roof insulation with mineral wool

If you see a soft snow-white insulation in the store, this is not know-how, but a variation of mineral wool from quartz sand with acrylic binder. Studies have confirmed its safety for health, so it is with this kind of wool that it is recommended to insulate the attic if it is planned to make a children's room in it. In addition, white glass wool holds better when installed by surprise, does not smell and does not tend to dust, so its installation process is much easier than installing ordinary brown glass wool.

Quartz wool is most often produced in rolls and is the safest type of mineral wool for health.

Roof insulation with ecowool

An even safer and more natural analogue of mineral wool is cellulose ecowool. This material is available in slabs or as loose fibres, slightly reminiscent of down. Among the advantages of ecowool:

• natural composition;
• resistance to burning (class G2);
• good resistance to decay, insects, rodents and fungi (treated with safe impregnants - borax or boric acid);
• preservation of properties when wet;
• high degree of thermal insulation (4 times higher than that of expanded clay);
• environmental friendliness. Does not cause allergies during installation;
• formation of a seamless layer of thermal insulation;
• frost resistance.

Ecowool is produced in different modifications, while the higher its class, the more it looks like medical

Table: comparison of the characteristics of basalt and cellulose wool

Among the shortcomings of ecowool, one can single out only the need for equipment for ventilation of the material and the difficulty in installation. Cotton wool in the form of fluffy fibers is best sprayed with a blow molding machine, but if you have time and are not inclined to save on the amount of material, this can also be done manually. This is the only cotton wool that can be wetted for ease of installation.

Among the natural analogues of mineral wool, it is also possible to note teplolyon (plates made of flax fibers), but in terms of appearance, characteristics and features of installation, it does not differ much from mineral wool.

Roof insulation with expanded clay

Expanded clay (granules of foamed clay) attracts attention with such properties:

• environmental friendliness (it consists entirely of mineral components without the addition of polymer resins and other popular binders);
• resistance to mouse teeth (it simply does not attract the interest of rodents, which are happy to nest in mineral wool and polystyrene);
• long service life (50–60 years for expanded clay is not the limit);
• extremely low thermal conductivity (a layer of 10 cm of expanded clay insulates heat like 25 cm of timber or 100 cm of brick).

At the same time, the cost of the material is not sky-high, it is considered one of the most budgetary heaters.

It looks like a roof insulated with expanded clay in a section

1. The slopes are hemmed from the inside (OSB, fiberboard, clapboard).
2. A membrane is laid on top.
3. A layer of expanded clay (14–16 cm) is poured on it and leveled.
4. Lay waterproofing.
5. Mount the crate, counter-lattice and roofing material.

It is almost impossible to qualitatively insulate a finished roof with expanded clay.

Expanded clay granules are fragile, try not to damage them during backfilling.

Foamed roof insulation

Among the rolled roofing insulation, fully polymeric ones are also offered, which look like a substrate for a laminate. In most cases this is:

• penofol (foamed polyethylene) with a layer thickness of 3-10 mm, which can be supplied with one- and two-sided foil and adhesive layer;
• penotherm (foamed polypropylene) 6–10 mm thick, with or without foil.

Products similar in properties and composition are also produced by the brands Izolon, Alufom, Polifom, Germaflex, Ecofol and others.

Foamed insulation is so thin that rolls for the entire roof can be brought in a passenger car

These materials are extremely thin, but in combination with foil they can provide reliable thermal insulation of the attic. Due to their low weight and small thickness, they are great for owners of older houses who are not ready to strengthen the structure of the roof and foundation. Foamed polymers are completely safe during installation, and thanks to the pure aluminum coating, they are not able to emit any harmful substances into the attic atmosphere. The material simultaneously serves as heat, moisture and sound insulation; no films or membranes need to be mounted with it. Penofol is also used when the ceiling height is critically low. To maintain the height of the attic, you can not even cover it with trim, the foil ceiling will look unusual and futuristic.

At the same time, penofol and penotherm can be used in combination with any other types of heaters, from mineral wool to fibrolite. Such a multi-layer cake will improve your thermal insulation several times, and foam insulation costs no more than a good waterproofing membrane.

When using penofol instead of a membrane, the effectiveness of mineral wool increases markedly

The only drawback of foamed heat insulators is low heat resistance, they begin to break down already when heated to 91 ° C.

Roof insulation with wood-fiber boards

Previously, ceilings and floors were insulated with a mixture of sawdust with the addition of cement. Fiberboard is a more modern variation of this technology, but it has been known for a long time. More than 40 factories producing this material worked in the USSR. Unlike chipboard, with which it is sometimes confused, fiberboard is not made of shavings, but of longer wood fibers (which resemble straw). In addition to them, the plates contain Portland cement and liquid glass, so this material is less combustible, heavier and is not afraid of moisture, like chipboard.

Fibrolite boards can simultaneously serve as a heater and a base for finishing (painting or puttying)

Now fibrolite is not considered a heater, it is more often used for sheathing the frame of a house, building partitions and solid battens roofs. But at the same time fiberboard have a low coefficient of thermal conductivity, therefore they are used for insulation both by themselves (usually in two layers with offset sheets), and in combination with softer insulation materials (mineral wool, ecowool). At the same time, it is suitable for all types of roofs (flat, single, gable, complex). Unlike other types of heat insulators, fiberboard can be puttied, painted and wallpapered, which greatly simplifies the finishing of the room.

A distinctive feature of these wood fiber boards is their excellent thermal stability. For example, mineral wool under a metal tile on a summer afternoon will heat up in 2 hours, and fibrolite will not change the temperature for 10 hours. The material is so thermally stable that it is possible to equip built-up roofs (roofing felt, bituminous tiles) on it using burners with an open flame.

What insulation is better to use for a private house

In private houses, roofs are usually pitched, so when insulating it is better to focus on soft materials, leaving polystyrene and foam plastic for external insulation. flat roofs. The final choice depends on the configuration of the roof and finishing material. For example:

When buying insulation, be sure to ask the consultant if the type you have chosen is suitable for the roof, since cotton wool, polystyrene foam, foam plastic and other materials for roofs, walls and ceilings differ in density, size, thickness of the plates and other characteristics. Do not be too lazy to read the information on the packaging - most manufacturers indicate the purpose of the material.

Video: testing different types of heaters