Insulation, Rigid

Definition

Rigid Insulation refers to insulation materials in sheet or board form, typically made of rigid foam. These materials are used to provide thermal resistance and structural support in various building applications.

Purpose

Rigid insulation is used to improve the thermal performance of buildings by reducing heat transfer through walls, roofs, and foundations. It also adds structural integrity and can act as a moisture barrier.

Examples of Use

• Installing rigid foam boards in the exterior walls of a building to improve insulation.
• Using rigid insulation under concrete slabs to reduce heat loss from the ground.
• Applying rigid insulation in roof assemblies to enhance thermal efficiency.

Related Terms

• Foam Board Insulation: Rigid panels of insulation that provide high R-values.
• Thermal Resistance (R-value): A measure of how well a material resists the flow of heat.
• Moisture Barrier: A material that prevents moisture from penetrating building elements.

Notes

Rigid insulation comes in various types, including expanded polystyrene (EPS), extruded polystyrene (XPS), and polyisocyanurate, each with different thermal properties and applications.