To insulate is to protect something by inserting material that prevents the lapse of heat or interference of sound. The term insulation could be applied to a number of things. Generally it refers to building, thermal, or electrical insulation; soundproofing; or insulated glass. The term is not to be mixed up with insolation, which is a measure of the solar radiation energy on a specific surface at a specific time.

Building insulation is a broad term used to refer to any object in a building used for these types of purposes. The majority of this is used for thermal purposes. Other forms: acoustic, fire and impact. The material used for this is chosen based on its ability to cushion, block sound and provide fire protection.

The amount of insulation needed in a building depends on several factors such as design, climate, energy costs, budget and personal preference. Before a property owner adds one of these systems, they should have an auditor determine what is already present in their home or building. Generally the insulating process is done during the construction process. Doing it after construction can be difficult because many of the systems are hidden and areas of the building may need to be deconstructed to reach those systems.

Bulk and reflective are the two main types available. Most buildings use a combination of both types. The type used is determined based on its ability to create the most resistance against the three forms of heat transfer within a building: radiation, convection and conduction.

Thermal insulation reduces the effects of heat transfer. Heat flow is the result of objects with varying temperatures coming in contact with each other. This form provides a way to maintain the grade of temperature by creating an area where the heat flow is reduced or the energy is reflected instead of absorbed. This thermal solution is energy efficient, has minimal expense, reduces noise and vibration and provides consistent temperatures. In cold climates, the objective is to reduce the heat flow out of the building. In hot climates, the goal is to reduce the heat energy or solar gain that is likely to occur.

Soundproofing works by reducing the sound pressure with respect to the source and receptor. There are different approaches that can be taken to do this. They include: increasing the distance between the receiver and source; using noise barriers to reflect sound waves; adding damp structures such as sound baffles; or implementing anti-noise sound generators.

Electrical insulation is designed to resist magnetism and the flow of electric current. It does through the use of a special material called an insulator or dielectric. This material is used within electrical equipment and provides insulting to the structure. The material can separate or support electrical conductors without the current passing through it.

Insulated glass, also known as insulated glazing refers to insulating of building windows. Double or triple windowpanes are used. These panes are divided by a space filled with air or gas. When done correctly, this process can reduce heat transfer.

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Category: Home Management
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