Glass Wool Insulation Nairobi Kenya
Fiberglass insulation also known as glass wool is the oldest and popular insulation material Kenya and other parts of the World. It was discovered in the 19th century by a researcher named Russel Games. The glass wool insulation has been in existence for over 80 years though being outdated with other insulation materials such as rock wool insulation and polyethylene form. Glass wool is a perfect sound/thermal insulating solution for office partitions, ceilings and wall cladding
The cost of fiberglass Insulation in Kenya ranges from KES 300 to KES 1, 000 shillings per square Metre based on thickness and size. You can buy our award winning Knauf Rockwool insulation roll 13M*1.2M*50mm at only Ksh 550 per square Metre
How is Fiberglass Manufactured?
Fiberglass is a fiber made primarily of thin glass filaments. Molten glass flows past a series of high-pressure jets, which “blow” the glass into filaments that are then bound together with a liquid binder. The filaments form a blanket that is moved down a conveyor belt into hot ovens for curing.
After curing, most fiberglass blankets are cut into specific sizes and one side is bonded to a facing. The composition of the facing determines its permeability, flexibility and durability.
Fiberglass blanket insulation is delivered in rolls to be cut to size or as batts in standard-size rectangular pads. The insulation comes in a variety of thicknesses; thicker blankets and batts reduce heat transfer better than thin blankets. The batts and blankets can be attached to a barrier made of paper, plastic or metal sheeting to create a vapor, air or radiant barrier along the insulation exposed to the outer environment.
Fiberglass Insulation Magic
Fiberglass blanket insulation traps an constant layer of air next to a heat source, preventing the transfer of warm air towards the cooler air. Insulation with a reflective barrier attached reflects the heat back to the source and is often used under roofing to prevent solar gains in warm climates or below floor joists to retain heat in cold climates.
What is an R Value?
R-value is a measure of the relative efficiency of slowing heat transfer. In other words, the R-value indicates the insulation’s resistance to heat flow. The R-value must be disclosed by the manufacturer and is typically found on the packaging or material data sheet.
- The R-value is proportional to the insulation’s thickness.
- One inch of fiberglass blanket or batt has an average R-value of 3.2.
- One inch of loose-fill cellulose has an average R-value of 3.5.
- One inch of loose-fill cellulose has an average R-value of 3.5.
- One inch of sprayed on polyurethane foam has an average R-value of 5.9
The thickness of the insulation (the R-value) and the material it is made from dictate the cost of the product. Insulation without a vapor barrier cannot block moisture.
Wet insulation has no R-value until it dries and if the moisture remains for long, mold may begin to grow within the insulation, creating a health hazard and necessitating the replacement of the insulation. If the building has suffered a water leak, all insulation should be inspected for moisture and mold.
Fiberglass blanket insulation is an effective yet inexpensive method of reducing the flow of heat. In cold environments, the insulation keeps the structure warmer without overworking the furnace. In hot environments, insulation blocks heat transfer into the structure. With a radiant barrier attached, the heat is reflected outward, away from the structure, reducing electricity needs.
To achieve the maximum energy ratings quoted for metal buildings, insulation must be installed in the interior walls and the ceiling or roof. Insulating the floor is optional but can help reduce heating bills in the winter. Fiberglass blanket insulation, the type most commonly used on construction projects, reduces heat transfer and, with the appropriate facing, reflects heat away from the blanket.
Appropriate insulation is critical to energy efficiency and savings on utility bills. It is an easily installed product that can save you money for decades to come.