Rigid Insulation

Definition

Rigid insulation is a thermal insulating material made of polystyrene, polyurethane, polyisocyanurate, cellular glass, or glass fiber, often offered with a skin surfacing, and formed into flat board shapes of constant thickness.

Purpose

The purpose of rigid insulation is to provide high thermal resistance, reducing heat transfer and improving energy efficiency in buildings by insulating walls, roofs, and foundations.

Examples of Use

• Rigid insulation boards are installed on exterior walls to enhance thermal performance.
• Roofs use rigid insulation to prevent heat loss and improve energy efficiency.
• Basement and foundation walls are insulated with rigid foam boards to minimize heat transfer from the ground.

Related Terms

• Foam Board: A type of rigid insulation made from foam materials like polystyrene.
• Thermal Resistance: The measure of a material's ability to resist heat flow.
• Insulating Material: Materials used to reduce the rate of heat transfer.

Notes

Rigid insulation is valued for its high R-value per inch of thickness, ease of installation, and moisture resistance, making it a popular choice for various insulating applications.