Settling and acceptable size of gaps in loose-fill thermal insulation in walls

摘要

Settling in loose-fill insulation may occur due to bad workmanship, low density of the filling, and vibration e.g. from transport, from wind and from banging of doors and windows. It may cause increased heat loss, low surface temperatures and water vapour condensation. In order to assess the risk of settling full-size wooden walls with various insulation materials were subjected to vibration tests in part A of the project (i.e. transport over a selection of road and simulated vibrational load from wind, doors and windows). Except for perlite, the insulation materials showed no settling when filling procedures and densities conformed to the relevant standards. In a follow-up project (part B) the influence of settling on temperature and condensation is investigated at the moment. Gaps are implemented on purpose. Surface and internal temperature is monitored in a hot box by measurement and infrared photography. The results shall indicate which gaps are acceptable and provide an infrared method to assess the severeness of gaps without opening the wall.