High Performance Insulation | Wedge India

Thermal insulation materials are designed to reduce heat transfer by creating a barrier between areas with different temperatures, helping to maintain energy efficiency and comfort in buildings. The choice of thermal insulation material depends on the building’s needs, climate, and budget. Below is a list of commonly used thermal insulation materials, along with their properties and applications.

Mineral Wool (Rock Wool or Slag Wool)

Batts, boards, or loose-fill. Made from natural rock or industrial by-products. Fire-resistant, soundproof, and moisture-resistant. Commonly used in exterior walls, roofs, and basements. 

R-Value: R-3.3 to R-4.2 per inch.

Disadvantages: Shorter life, create corrosion of steel structure frame or pipes under insulation. Not suitable for high temperature applications Heavier than other insulation types and can be more expensive.

Polystyrene (EPS & XPS)

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) and Extruded Polystyrene (XPS). Material: Rigid foam boards. Advantages: Lightweight, moisture-resistant, and durable. Applications: Often used in walls, floors, roofs, and foundation insulation.

R-Value: EPS: R-3.6 to R-4.2 per inch. XPS: R-4.5 to R-5.0 per inch.

Disadvantages: Flammable without additives and can degrade with UV exposure.

Polyisocyanurate (PIR)

Rigid foam boards. Closed-cell foam made from polyisocyanurate. High R-value, moisture-resistant, and lightweight. Commonly used in roofing systems and wall insulation.

R-Value: R-6 to R-6.5 per inch.

Disadvantages: Can shrink over time, affecting thermal performance.

Spray Foam Insulation (Polyurethane Foam)

Spray-applied (open-cell or closed-cell). Polyurethane foam. Provides excellent air sealing, prevents moisture infiltration, and offers high thermal resistance. Ideal for hard-to-reach spaces, such as around ductwork and irregularly shaped areas.

R-Value: Open-cell: R-3.5 to R-4 per inch. Closed-cell: R-6 to R-7 per inch.

Disadvantages: Flammable, Non-fire proof.  More expensive than other insulation types and requires professional installation.

WedGel Aerogel

Rigid or flexible panels. Silica-based or polymer-based. Extremely high thermal resistance with minimal thickness. Used in space-constrained areas where maximum insulation is needed, such as windows and walls.

R-Value: R-10 to R-30 per inch (depending on the type and application).

Disadvantages: Very expensive compared to other insulation materials.

Reflective Insulation and Radiant Barriers

Foil-faced materials (reflective surfaces). Aluminum foil, sometimes backed with cardboard or plastic film. Reflects heat away from the building, particularly effective in hot climates. Commonly installed in attics to reduce cooling loads.

R-Value: Very low, Varies based on installation; effective at reducing radiant heat gain, but not rated in traditional R-values.

Disadvantages: Low performance. Flammable. Catch fire easily. Limited effectiveness in colder climates.

Vacuum Insulation Panels (VIPs)

Rigid panels Encapsulated core materials, typically silica, enclosed in a vacuum-sealed panel. Extremely high R-value in very thin profiles. Used in walls, roofs, and floors where space is limited.

R-Value: R-25 to R-30 per inch.

Disadvantages: Fragile and expensive, with limited availability.

Calcium silicate thermal insulation

Widely used insulation material known for its high thermal performance, durability, and fire resistance. It is primarily used in industrial settings, though it can also be found in certain commercial and residential applications where heat resistance is essential. 

R-value of calcium silicate thermal insulation typically ranges from R-2.7 to R-5 per inch