|
Before
you can expect to get full value from any heating or cooling system
you must ensure your home is as well insulated as possible. Heat
"leaks', out of the house through the porous walls, windows,
floor and ceiling. Hot air also leaks out through any cracks in
doors or windows, and is replaced by cold air, thus making a heating
system work much harder. In summer, the reverse happens and warm
air from the outside penetrates, despite the efforts of your cooling
system.
Insulation can be included when the house is first built, or some
forms of insulation can be installed in an existing house. If you
are building a house and can afford it, you should insulate the
ceilings, walls and floor. If cost is important, insulate the areas
which you may not be able to insulate once the house is completed,
e.g. cavity walls. Generally, the best results are achieved by
insulating the walls, ceilings, and floor in that order.
Foil
insulation can be installed in a house after the frame is completed
and before the exterior walls are commenced. Reflective foil performs
best if it faces air spaces at least 25mm wide The air spaces must
be sealed so that air on one side cannot flow to the other side
as this reduces the insulating effect. This seal can be achieved
by overlapping the sheets of foil about 150mm. Both sides of double-sided
foil can be utilized if the material is dished between the studs
of a wall If used to insulate beneath a floor, the foil should be
dished over the joists before the floorboards are laid. When used
in a ceiling or floor, the underside will still provide a good insulating
effect even if the top is covered with dust.
Other building products
such as bituminous felt can be used to provide sarking, sheathing,
underlying and general waterproofing of floors and roofs during
construction.
Existing
homes.
In
an existing home, putting a layer of insulation between the ceiling
joists under the roof will substantially reduce the heat lost through
this source. The usual form of ceiling insulation is known as mineral
wool, fiberglass or rock wool. For the handyman, the easiest form
to use are the pre-cut lengths called batts which are designed to
fit between ceiling joists or wall studs Batts are made in different
thicknesses so choose the thickness most suitable for the climate
where you live Your supplier will be able to advise you, but as
a guide, 75mm would be suitable for Sydney, and 10Omm for a city
subject to greater variations in temperature, such as Canberra.
Next measure the width between ceiling joists and choose the batts
which fit between them.
How
to install batts.
1.
Assemble tools, light and ladder under the manhole leading to the
loft. You will need a sharp knife and cutting board for trimming
part-batts to fit some spaces.
2.
Pass the packs up through the manhole and start laying from the
point furthest from the manhole. Press the batts down between the
ceiling joists, using a length of broomstick as a prodder. Work
back towards the manhole until the whole area is covered.
3.
Do not insulate eaves, open verandahs or garages. Trim batts to
fit around vents for exhaust fans, etc. Do not block any air holes
or ventilators. Leave a 50mm space around the flue from a heater.
4.
To insulate lowered sections of ceiling, cut a length of polythene
sheeting (a bit of the pack will do) and tack this over the section
then lay the batts on top. Ensure the batts butt up against each
other snugly.
5. When all but the manhole is covered, fix a bat over the
manhole cover before closing.
When
working above the ceiling, remember to walk only on the joists,
never on the plaster sheeting Avoid working on very hot days -morning
is best. Wear protective work gloves, long trousers, long sleeve
shirt and handkerchief or mask over face.
Other
ways to insulate.
Anything
which minimizes the effect of outside temperature extremes on the
inside of the house will make living more comfortable, and cut down
heating and cooling bills. Close fitting carpets with underlay
will help prevent heat loss through the floor, and lining curtains
will do the same for windows. In cold climates, it may be advisable
to curtain the whole wall. Ceiling tiles and wall paneling are
good insulators, but don't forget to start with the basics. Ensure
your home is draught proof with efficient weather stripping on all
doors and windows.
|
