Can I get a U-value calculated for my flat roofing project?
Absolutely! Please contact our freephone technical helpline on 01543 678777.
Can I walk on Deck-VQ® vacuum insulation panels?
Yes, this is possible due to the protection layers in high density PIR and the compressive strength of 150 kPa (CS(10\Y)150). Deck-VQ® is suitable for application in flat roofs and terraces, subject to light foot traffic.
As for every type of insulation, we recommend to limit the foot traffic during installation to a minimum and apply the waterproofing as soon as possible after installation. It is best practice to only install the area you are able to insulate AND waterproof in one day.
Can you drill, nail or saw into a Vacuum Insulation Panel?
No, because these actions will lead to the loss of vacuum in the VIP and reduce the thermal performance by a factor of three*.
Our Deck-VQ® concept offers an optimum protection to prevent most damage on site. (see “What is the difference between Deck-VQ® and a Vacuum Insulation Panel?”).
Our technical services provide guidance and deliver a detailed design for your project.
Do not hesitate to contact us for further information.
*The thermal conductivity of the core material rises to ca. 0,020 W/mK under ambient pressure.
How should I store Insulation boards?
Our boards are supplied in polythene shrink wrap which is designed for short-term protection only. It is accepted that storing boards indoors is not always possible – when outdoor storage is necessary, boards should be stored clear of the ground, on a level surface, and under cover to protect them from prolonged exposure to moisture or mechanical damage.
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What if I cannot provide all of the information required for thermal calculations of a specific project?
It is possible for us to make certain assumptions when performing a calculation, but this can reduce the accuracy of the final result. Assumptions are routinely made about the types of fixings to be used, but we will always try to inform you if a general figure has been used where more accurate data could affect the calculation result.
What is a Vacuum Insulation Panel or VIP?
VIP is the abbreviation of Vacuum Insulation Panel. A Vacuum Insulation Panel generally comprises a microporous core material (e.g. based on fumed silica), which is introduced into a high barrier multilayer foil envelope. The envelope is then evacuated and sealed, obtaining a near vacuum inside the envelope.
Because of the microporous core and the absence of air, excellent thermal properties are obtained. For our Vacuum Insulation Panel as such (Core-VQ®) we can declare a lambda value of 0,006 W/mK, which is typically 3-5 better than traditional insulation materials.
Vacuum Insulation Panels have already been used for several decades in high demanding applications, especially when stringent requirements for thermal insulation are set (e.g. refrigerators). As the thermal insulation of buildings has become increasingly important over the last years, Vacuum Insulation Panels have been introduced in buildings to meet the high standards.
Recticel Insulation offers the following products:
What is the best way of achieving an air and vapour barrier when using PIR insulation panels?
As per the literature supplied with the product - an effective air and vapour barrier can be achieved by the taping of board joints using suitable insulation tape, the inclusion of a separate proprietary vapour control layer or the use of a foil backed plasterboard all of these methods are acceptable forms of air/vapour control.
What is the difference between a U-value and an R-value?
U-values take into account all elements of a construction, including thermal bridges. They can only be worked out by calculation. The R-value, or thermal resistance, is a measure of the insulation board on its own, dividing the thickness (in metres) by the thermal conductivity (lambda value, W/m.K). The R-value can be used to compare how different thicknesses of products with different lambda values perform comparatively.