Have you ever found yourself wondering why your house feels freezing in the winter and like a furnace in the summer, even though you have the heat or air on full blast? You're not alone. The thermal comfort of the home depends largely on insulation., and choosing the right materials makes a difference in temperature, energy savings, and even the health of those who live there.
In the following lines I will explain clearly and with practical examples. How to choose thermal insulation materials to keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer.We'll break down all the options, technical criteria, and key areas of the home, combining expert knowledge with easy-to-implement tips. If you're looking to stop paying inflated bills and live truly comfortable, keep reading.
Why is good thermal insulation essential at home?
Thermal insulation is not just a sustainable fashion, but a necessity. in countries like Spain, where temperature changes between seasons can be extreme. Having adequate insulation reduces air conditioning costs by 30% to 70%.According to the OCU (Spanish Consumer Organization), a poorly insulated 90 m² home can spend around €1.000 more per year on energy than a well-insulated one. In addition to the economic impact, insulation prevents problems with damp, mold, and noise, improving air quality and the overall health of the home.
In building renovation, insulation is a key tool against energy poverty. and to comply with efficiency regulations. The European Union estimates that up to 80% of its building stock is energy inefficient. Improving insulation, especially in façades and roofs, results in rapid payback (in about 3 to 5 years) and typically requires no maintenance for decades.
Fundamental aspects before choosing the insulating material
Before embarking on a renovation or choosing a material, it's essential to consider several points that, although seemingly technical, are key to effective insulation:
- Thermal conductivity (λ): It is the technical parameter that tells how much heat passes through a material. The lower it is, the better it will insulate.Materials with lower thermal conductivity allow for high performance with less thickness.
- Thermal resistance: It depends on the thickness and conductivity. Greater thickness and lower conductivity equal better protection against heat and cold.
- Geographic location: The climate of your area determines which material is best suited.In humid and cold environments, waterproofing and moisture regulation are prioritized; in dry and warm environments, heat resistance and thermal inertia are prioritized.
- Impermeability: The insulation must prevent the entry of water and the formation of condensation., especially in humid climates.
- Thickness: Adding more doesn't always mean better results, but in cold, dry areas, more density is required to prevent thermal leaks.
- Sustainability and recycling: If you are concerned about the environment you can opt for recycled or natural materials such as cellulose, cork or wood fiber.
- Fire behavior: Isolation also influences security, so look for materials with an A or B rating under European standards for fire resistance.
- Long-term cost: Although some insulators seem more expensive at first, The reduction in the energy bill means it pays for itself quickly.
Furthermore, Always consult local regulations and the Technical Building Code (CTE), as they set the standards for thickness and minimum performance according to the climate zone.
Most common types of thermal insulation materials
There is a variety on the market that can make anyone dizzy.Foams, mineral wool, natural materials, technical materials, or blends. Here's a summary of the most commonly used materials and their advantages:
Rock wool
Rock wool is made from molten volcanic rock that is ground into fibers. It is one of the most complete solutions for thermal and acoustic insulation..
- Very low thermal conductivity: effectively blocks the passage of heat and cold.
- Humidity regulation: allows the home to “breathe”, preventing mold and condensation.
- Fire resistance: not only insulates, but also offers great security.
- Durability: maintains its properties for many years.
- Recommended uses: ventilated facades, roofs, interior walls, false ceilings and renovations.
Mineral wool or glass wool
This material is obtained by fusing silica sand and recycled glass, forming a fibrous mass with excellent thermal and acoustic performance.
- High insulating capacity: reduce heating and air conditioning costs.
- Easy installation: perfect for blowing into air chambers without the need for complex works.
- Sustainable: contains recycled materials and can be recycled after its useful life.
- Applications: interior walls, floors, ceilings and places where sound insulation is also a priority.
Expanded polystyrene (EPS)
EPS is a foamed plastic material widely used for its lightness and easy handling.
- High insulating power with low thickness: ideal for renovations where space is limited.
- Raincoat: It does not absorb moisture, making it stable in areas prone to condensation.
- Versatility: It is used in plates, bulk beads or composite systems (SATE).
- Frequent destinations: facades, roofs and filling of air chambers in walls.
Extruded polystyrene (XPS)
XPS is similar to EPS but is manufactured by extrusion, giving it a denser and stronger structure.
- Very resistant to compression and humidity: perfect for floors, flat and pitched roofs.
- Minimum maintenance: very durable and stable over time.
- Recyclable: Its high recycling rate makes it attractive for those looking for sustainable solutions.
Polyurethane Foam
Available in various formats (sprayed, injected, rigid sheets, sandwich panels), Polyurethane is one of the materials with the lowest thermal conductivity.
- Jointless installation: adapts to any shape and prevents thermal bridges.
- Waterproofing and acoustic insulation.
- Long life and recyclability.
- Uses: walls with irregular geometry, floors, facades and roofs.
Other materials: natural and alternative
- Cork: Highly resistant to moisture, perfect for floors and walls. It's sustainable and aesthetically appealing.
- Wood fiber: regulates humidity and provides good thermal and acoustic insulation.
- Laminated plaster and cellulose: Used in combination with other insulators, they provide resistance to fire, impacts and humidity, in addition to being ecological options.
Keys to choosing the right insulation for your home and your needs
Each home is a world and The choice depends on the climate, the type of construction and your budget.Here are some practical recommendations:
- In humid and cold areas (for example, Galicia, Asturias): Choose insulators that breathe and are resistant to moisture, such as rock wool or cork.
- In dry and warm climates: prioritize materials with high heat resistance, such as XPS or wood fiber.
- If you are looking for economical solutions without construction: Blown mineral wool and expanded polystyrene beads are good options.
- For maximum sustainability: opt for recycled cellulose, cork or products with a high recycled content.
- Check out the SATE systems catalog: They combine various materials and can be adapted to facades, roofs and floors of any type.
Always remember to value long-term energy savings over the initial price., consult with qualified professionals and ask for personalized advice.
The areas of the home where insulation matters most
It is not enough to isolate for the sake of isolating. The essential thing is to treat the points where the most energy is lost or gained.. Generally, these are the most critical areas:
- Facades and exterior walls: They are the main barrier against cold and heat. Up to 35% of energy can escape through them.
- Roofs and covers: Heat rises to the ceiling, so poorly insulated roofs are responsible for up to 30% of thermal comfort losses. Materials such as rock wool and wood fiber are very helpful here.
- Floors and slabs: Especially essential on ground floors or in buildings with air chambers, underfloor insulation can make a difference in winter comfort.
- Windows and carpentry: Although they are not insulators as such, switching to energy-efficient windows complements the insulation of walls and roofs, preventing unwanted leaks.
Before acting, identify the critical points where you notice drafts, cold, or heat. A good diagnosis helps prioritize where to invest to achieve the best results.
