For residential and commercial constructions, thermal insulation has always been an effective method to control the energy bills. In summers, they facilitate the working of air conditioners by blocking the heating effect of the blazing sun from entering the interior.  While in winters, they help in extending the cozy and comfy environment at nights by trapping the indoor heat.

If you go to the market to buy thermal insulation, you will find many different material options there. To make it easy for you to decide the thermal insulation you want, we will discuss all the top thermal insulations that are available in the market today according to their merits and downsides.

Wool

Wool or mineral wool is the most cost-effective option that you will find on the market. Mineral wool is available in different of its subtypes. For instance, you can find it in the form of recycled fiberglass. Similarly, mineral wools available made of basalt (igneous mineral rock) are also available. However, you will mostly find wool made of foundry slag in the stores.

You can get mineral wool in bundled forms according to the surface area you want to insulate. Nevertheless, there is a downside of mineral wool i.e. it doesn’t have very strong fire resistant qualities. Therefore, it is recommended to not use in those spaces where temperatures remain really high.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass is another thermal insulation option that you will abundantly find in the market. Made of polyester and silicon, fiberglass provides very effective insulation against heat. However, it is important to handle it with care since its material is hazardous for human health. Fiberglass is lightweight and can be used with any type of construction and in every temperature condition.

Cellulose

This thermal insulation material is generally made of recycled wooden, cardboard, paper and any other material that is rich in cellulose. Cellulose thermal insulations have very strong fire-resistant attributes because its internal structure doesn’t entrap any oxygen, a gas that acts as a catalyst for combustion.

Cellulose is also an eco-friendly and cost-effective insulation option. Unfortunately, it is usually available in loose form. Therefore, it‘s installation can become quite challenging.

Polyurethane

Polyurethane foams are purely synthetic material serving the purpose of insulation. They are the lightest weight insulation material available on the block. In addition, it possesses good fire-resistant qualities. If you are conscious of picking products and material according to their impact on the environment, then polyurethane might not be the preferable insulation option for you.

Polystyrene

For commercial spaces where thermal insulation is a necessary requirement for construction, polystyrene is the best option available in the market. It the most expensive insulation option that we have discussed here. Polystyrene is available in extruded and expanded form and also provides good soundproofing in addition to thermal insulation. Moreover, polystyrene is a waterproof insulation solution. This means it has an extended operational life.

Check out any round the corner store to pick the thermal insulation option that best suits your needs.