Hi, I'm Mandy. If you're looking for tips on pool construction, you've come to the right place. We've just had a new pool installed and I'm full of advice! When I started on our pool I thought it would be an easy build. Boy, was I wrong. I didn't know anything about building a pool apart from the fact I wanted one. Luckily, our construction company set me straight. They helped me work out how big the pool could be and they showed me which shape would suit our yard space. They sorted out permits and even gave me advice on fencing. To find out what I learned, read through my blog. Hope it helps!
Insulation is crucial in blocking the transfer of heat both in summer and winter. It helps to maintain a cool home while the sun is blazing outside, and also to preserve a cozy, warm inside environment during colder months. Two principal varieties include bulk and reflective insulation. This piece shares some insight on these types of insulation so you know your options.
This kind of insulation slows down the transfer of conducted and convected heat through floors, walls or ceilings. So even if there is a sudden change of temperature outside, there will be a time lag before those new conditions begin to affect the inside environment, if at all.
Typical materials include wool, glass-wool, polyester, polystyrene and cellulose fibre. These are available in the form of batts, blankets, loose fill or boards. Bulk insulation works by trapping millions of pockets of still-air within its structure. Air conducts heat less efficiently than solid substances. So these hollows within the materials slow down the transfer of heat, and this produces an insulating effect. For this reason, it is crucial not to crush or compress these products as this can squeeze out the air holes.
The fur on some animals works on a similar principal to keep them warm. Air pockets within their coats reduce the heat transfer from the surrounding environment. All bulk insulation products carry an R-value which specifies their resistance to heat transfer. The higher the value, the better that product insulates. These ratings, however, do depend on correct setup and fitting.
This form of insulation reduces radiant heat transfer across an enclosed area. It is typically used to reflect the heat emanating from the sun away from a building. To work effectively, it needs at least 25mm of air space in front of the shiny surface. This insulation is usually made from bright aluminium foil that adheres to plastic or paper. Because it relies on reflectivity, dust gathering on the surface can hinder its effectiveness. So it is often installed at a slant or on an angle to limit this.
The R-values that you will see on reflective insulation products depend on the direction of the heat movement. Up R-values (winter R-values) refer to upwards heat flow. Down' R-values (summer R-values) relate to downwards heat flow from the sun.
Whether your primary concern is with summer heat or winter cold will affect the appropriate types of insulation for your home. Some products combine both principals, with items such as foil-backed batts and boards, or foil coated blankets.Share