Insulating in Warm Climates
Curing the Warm Weather Attic Blues
Traditional construction typically includes
vented attics, regardless of regional and
climatic conditions. However, in warm
humid climates, temperatures in vented
attics can reach well in excess of 120oF.
Add to that the infiltration of moisture
laden air and attic pressurization, and you
have a myriad of problems for energy efficiency,
indoor air quality, condensation
and comfort.
The Florida Solar Energy Center attributes 65% of the infiltration in the average Florida home to the attic. Coupled with duct leakage, this can place a considerable burden on the home’s systems to maintain indoor comfort.
The solution is the Icynene® Thermal Envelope. Utilizing an unvented (sealed) attic design, Icynene®, a unique foam insulation, is placed at the roof plane rather than on the ceiling to create a completely closed structure which prevents moisture from entering the attic and condensing.
The result is a completely enclosed, air-tight sealed building that offers a healthier, quieter and more energy efficient environment.
The Icynene Thermal Envelope:
- Virtually eliminates condensation, duct sweating, infiltration, humidity and bacteria growth.
- Allows the control of humidity levels within the 45% to 50% range, a level at which molds, mildew, dust mites and many allergens perish.
- Creates maximum indoor air quality. Improves the thermal comfort within the entire building.
- Vastly improves energy efficiency.
Extends the life of the building
and the systems within it. - Maintains original cured form - does not shrink, settle or sag
- Is a lifetime warranted product
Below is a summary of the product specification. Please ask for full product specifications before using.
| Environmental Characteristics | |
|---|---|
| • CFCs or HCFCs | none |
| • Formaldehyde | none |
| • Corrosiveness | negative |
| • VOCs after 30 days | none detectable |
| Flammability Characteristics | |
| • Flame spread ASTM E84 | <20 |
| • Smoke developed | <400 |
| • Fuel contribution | zero |
| • Oxygen index | 23 |
| Physical Properties | |
| • Density | 0.5 lb/cf |
| • Thermal Resistance | R-3.6/in |
| Heat flow reduction through 1” | 72.7% |
| Heat flow reduction through 3.5” | 92.2% |
| Heat flow reduction through 5.5” | 95.0% |
| Heat flow reduction through 10” | 97.3% |
| • Vapor permeance - 5” | 10 perms |
| • Sound transmission class | 37 |
| • Noise reduction coefficient | 70 |
| Evaluations and Approvals | |
| B.O.C.A., I.C.B.O., S.B.C.C.I., N.E.S., C.C.M.C. | |