Insulation

Insulation has long been recognised as a crucial strand in the reduction of energy consumption in heating, since 50 - 70 % of energy consumption within the finished building is typically used for heating. There are many approaches to insulation, but here we look at a few emerging techniques which can be both environmentally friendly and effective. The advantage of the natural methods is that the materials are able to ‘breathe' which is good for the whole structure of a building.

Recycled paper
This is used to produce cellulose insulation. Although they may appear fibrous, they are made from newsprint, cardboard, or other forms of waste paper. It is available in small flat pieces and is ideal for maintaining older construction projects. It is particularly recommended for improving attic insulation.

Airflex
Airflex is a thermo-reflective insulation technique which performs well in comparative tests with traditional insulation technologies.

Flax
Flax is a completely natural product which has versatile uses in insulation.  It's safe, non-toxic and easy to install. It can also hold up to 25% of its weight in water before its insulating capacity reduces.

Hemp
Academics are still trying to ascertain why this material outperforms expectations in tests - in a recent experiment by BRE, it was found that hemp insulation actually worked better than cavity wall insulation, but the reasons for this are not properly understood as yet. Companies are now starting to produce hemp on a commercial basis, although this is still a relatively new development.