Insulation is an essential part of the home building or remodeling process. Air infiltration accounts for up to 40 percent of energy loss in a typical home. An effective air barrier is critical to help keep conditioned (heated or cooled) air in your home from escaping through gaps in the building envelope and being replaced by outside air. To insulate is to reduce the transfer of heat. The more effective material is at reducing heat transfer, the higher its R-value. (R means resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating power.) Moisture is the number one enemy of most building materials and is the leading cause of building failure. The most significant source of moisture in buildings is air infiltration and air movement within the walls. This can contribute to condensation and create optimal conditions for mold and mildew growth. You can find the answer to all your insulation and moisture questions at United Building Supply.
There are many uses for foam in the building industry today. Polystyrene and polyurethane are critical for sealing the envelope of the home. Whether it is nailed on the exterior of the house in sheet form or sprayed into the wall cavity during construction, or just used around the windows, foam is used in some form or fashion to keep air from leaking into or out of the building envelope.
Caulks and sealants are an important part of the construction and remodeling industry. They play a critical part in keeping moisture on the outside of the home where it is supposed to be, not to mention they also help to seal off gaps and cracks to prevent the outside drafts from getting into the home.