Thermal insulation

Thermal insulation slows the flow of heat between inside and outside. In winter it keeps warmth from escaping; in summer it limits heat getting in. The result is better comfort, less energy spent on heating and cooling, and a lower risk of condensation and mould on internal surfaces. The Turkish term is ısı yalıtımı.

Materials and where they go

Stone wool, glass wool, expanded and extruded polystyrene, polyurethane and wood fibre are the most common options. Each differs in thermal conductivity, fire behaviour, resistance to moisture and cost. On external walls, insulating from the outside, known as external wall insulation or ETICS, is usually the most effective approach because it wraps over thermal bridges. Roofs, ground-bearing floors and surfaces next to unheated spaces need insulating as well.

Thermal bridges and continuity

• Columns, beams, balcony slabs and window reveals are typical thermal bridges where insulation is interrupted.
• If insulation does not wrap the building continuously, condensation and mould appear at the weak spots.
• Insulation only pays off fully alongside good airtightness and well-chosen windows.

Insulation is the foundation of a building’s energy performance and directly affects its energy certificate rating. It is rarely visible in a finished image, yet layered sectional perspectives and detail renders explain clearly to a client how insulation wraps the building. It is always near the top of the list when discussing sustainability and architecture.