Architectural designs and noticeable features such as wall colors and lighting fixtures are what we tend to focus on when constructing a commercial building. However, there is another element that we should not be overlook-insulation. This is because it plays a crucial role in regulating thermal transfer between the indoor and outdoor environments, reducing heating and cooling costs.
Insulation is an integral part of a commercial building. But considering the vast products in the market, deciding the type of insulation you want to install in a commercial building can be a daunting task. However, polyiso is one insulation product that has proved to be an excellent choice for commercial buildings. And this is not only because it is contractor-friendly, but also because it maximizes performance and minimizes environmental impacts. In this text, we’ll look at polyiso insulation, its range of benefits, and cost.
What Is Polyiso Insulation?
Polyiso or polyisocyanurate is a versatile and one of the most widely used low slope, above-deck insulations. It can be defined as a closed-cell, rigid foam plastic insulation board created from heating chemicals and synthetic materials. Polyiso dates back to the 1930s when it was used to insulate beer barrels. However, it has evolved to become one of the best insulation materials in the market over the years. Currently, this product is used in more than 70% of commercial buildings in the United States. It is available in a range of compressive strengths to meet the diverse marketplace requirements.
There are two kinds of polyiso; flat stock and tapered panels. Flat stock panels are used on low slope roofs that incline towards the gutters. On the other hand, tapered panels are created with an inclination or an angle and are used to drain water and stop it from stagnating in corners or flat roofs.
Why Is Polyiso Insulation An Ideal Choice For Commercial Applications?
Thermal Efficiency
Polyiso boasts a high R-value per inch as compared to all the other insulation materials in the market. R-Value is a measure of how an insulator can curtail the flow of heat from inside or outside.
Unmatched Dimensional Stability
This insulation material retains its dimension when used on roofs, minimizing the chances of thermal bridges, leading to energy inefficiency in a building. When used on walls, polyiso doesn’t break easily or depreciate in performance.
Ease of Use
The polyiso comes in a range of sizes to suit various use areas. It is also tested, approved, and code-compliant. This means that you’ll have peace of mind when you use it since it has all balances in check.
Stable Over Large Temperature Range
The product can withstand low and high-temperature ranges without losing its physical characteristics. Since it can withstand temperatures between -100°F to +250°F, polyisocyanurate can be utilized as a roof system component with various materials.
Convenience
The insulator is light in weight, comes in various sizes, and thus is easy to transport and handle during installation.
Adheres to the Requirements of Building Codes
Polyiso is FM 4450 and CAN/ULC-S126 approved. These are the most popular tests that are referenced in many building codes.
Versatility
Unlike other products constrained to one use area such as the roof, polyisocyanurate can be used on ceilings and walls.
Very Effective
The product doesn’t also allow various elements to go through. It boasts good adhesion to facers, low vapor transmission, and low water absorption. When adequately protected, it is also not affected by insecticides, oil-based waterproofing compounds, or fertilizer.
Polyiso Insulation Cost
The cost of a polyiso board will be determined by the type and thickness of the material. On average, the price of polyiso insulation can be anywhere between 0.042 and $0.70/sq. Ft. for a 1″ thick panel. To find out the price per sq. Ft. per inch, you just take the price per board and divide it by the amount of sq. Ft in it.