Insulation Materials--Retail

There are a number of different insulation products available, each containing material made from different properties used for different insulation purposes, with the main purpose to trap air.

Common insulation materials include polystyrene, fibreglass, rockwool and more commonly known materials used in construction such as wood, brick, glass and concrete. The insulation material chosen depends on several factors such as climate, location of building, ease of installation and the durability of the material including resistance to decomposition and compression, toxicity, environmental-friendliness, longevity, flammability cost effectiveness.

Polystyrene is a very good insulator produced either through extrusion or expansion. Extruded polystyrene is produced as fine cells of thermal plastic material containing fused air and refrigerant gas. Expanded polystyrene, called beadboard, produces air containing closed cells and is coarse in texture. Fiberglass is a common manufactured type of insulation material used in construction produced by melting glass and spinning it to turn into microfibers. Fiberglass insulation limits thermal changes as well as reducing sound in the given structure. It is typically lightweight and cost-effective making it to be a suitable option whether for household or commercial use. It is also non-combustible, non-absorbent and it does not wear out over time. Rockwool insulation, also known as stone wool insulation or mineral wool insulation is composed of rocks and minerals, used for its sound and heat blocking capabilities; it is found in the construction of buildings and industrial plants.