When you have a commercial building, one thing you want to do is make sure you choose the right type of commercial insulation. Below are six common types of commercial insulation and their pros and cons.
Fiberglass
Pros:
- Cost-effective & widely available
- Provides great noise reduction and fire resistance
Cons:
- Can lead to skin irritation when handled improperly
- Moisture exposure makes it less effective
Foam Board
Pros:
- Offers great thermal performance and moisture resistance
- Has a thin profile but high R-value for each inch
Cons:
- More expensive when compared with other kinds
- Installation is hard in the irregular spaces
- Expensive compared to other types
Rigid Board
Pros:
- High R-value/inch
- Fire and moisture resistant
Cons:
- Is often expensive
- Needs precise installation to provide best performance
Mineral Wool
Pros:
- Provides great soundproofing and fire resistance
- Is non-combustible, which contributes to the building’s overall safety
Cons:
- Is often more expensive than fiberglass
- Needs to be installed carefully so that it doesn’t settle over time
EPS
Pros:
- Astounding thermal performance and moisture resistance
- Simple installation and lightweight
Cons:
- Limited resistance to fire without extra treatments
- Might need more protective barriers in areas with high exposure
Polyiso
Pros:
- Highest R-value/inch
- Excellent for moisture control and thermal resistance
Cons:
- More expensive than other materials
- Might degrade when there is prolonged exposure to moisture without other protective layers
These are the pros and cons of six types of commercial insulation. Think about what you need from your insulation then choose the right one for your property. An experienced commercial insulation contractor can also help you choose the right one.