Insulation & Soundproofing

Insulation focuses on R-values while windows show R-values and U-values. Learn the difference to help choose materials and design efficient homes. Understanding U-values, how are they different to R-values? Most homeowners have a general idea of what R-value mean, and it is the most commonly understood metric for…

What is the best insulation material available and what are the best insulated windows? Aerogel is a super-insulator for walls and windows that may revolutionize how we design and build homes. Aerogel in sustainable building: Is this the best new insulation material? Aerogel is often called 'frozen smoke' because of…

A comparison of sustainable rigid board alternatives - mineral wool and wood fiber - for a non-toxic, fire-safe, and low-carbon building envelope. The pursuit of a sustainable and fire-safe building envelope involves weighing complex trade-offs between different rigid insulation boards. While fossil-fuel-based…

Don't let your R-value drift away! Learn which foam insulation materials lose thermal performance over time and why the Long-Term Thermal Resistance (LTTR) is the only number that matters for a high-performance home. Thermal drift in insulation: are insulation R Values accurate and why do they change? Thermal drift…

An authoritative resource on graphite-infused EPS insulation, covering its superior R-value, fire resistance, global terminology (GPS, G-EPS, Neopor), and best practices for energy-efficient building projects. This guide provides a comprehensive look at the key aspects of this topic. Below is an overview of the…

Beyond simple soundproofing: how silent architecture and acoustic panels work together to achieve true acoustic wellness in your living space. Acoustic panels in homes: do they help make homes less noisy? Unwanted noise transmission and echoes in homes can be frustrating. There are easy ways to sound proof new homes…

A comprehensive guide to upgrading attic insulation in heritage properties, covering everything from material choices to safety protocols and ventilation best practices for a healthier, more efficient home. This guide provides a comprehensive look at the key aspects of this topic. Below is an overview of the…

The definitive guide to choosing between vented, unvented, and arctic roof assemblies, covering proper design, insulation, and moisture control for all climates. Choosing between vented and unvented roofs: a homeowner's and pro's guide A lot goes in to choosing a roof design. There is energy efficiency to consider…

A comprehensive comparison of the most common insulation materials used for home construction, analyzing their embodied carbon impact, performance & suitability for construction applications & construction types, ranking the best of each insulation type. Introduction: Why carbon reduction matters in construction As…

Open cell and closed cell spray foam have different characteristics, as well as environmental impacts and health implications, which is best? Is either good? Let us guide you on how to choose between open cell and closed cell spray foam. What is the difference between open-cell and closed-cell spray foam? Both open…

Fancy being a bit of a black sheep when it comes to your home insulation? Try sheep wool Insulation for homes, tiny homes and van conversions. As more people begin to factor indoor air quality and health of occupants into home building and renovation plans, natural insulation materials are gaining traction in the…

A new type of two layered paint in a range of colors has been developed by researchers at Columbia University in New York that can save energy & reduce cooling bills. Sounding too good to be true, we took a closer look. Reflective paint keeps buildings cool & lowers AC bills Studies show that a…

A new environmentally-friendly rigid foam insulation board made from cellulose nanocrystals is a viable alternative to Styrofoam - according to researchers at WSU. Current rigid foam insulation panel choices It would probably not come as a surprise to many people to hear that fiberglass insulation and rigid foam…