Can PIR insulation boards be used directly below flooring tiles?
No, PIR insulation boards should not be used directly below flooring tiles, a suitable substrate such as screed should be used to distribute the load and prevent movement and cracking of the tiles.
Is a vapour control layer (VCL) required in a floor insulation application?
In addition to the damp proof membrane (normally a 1200-gauge polythene sheet below the insulation), a 500-gauge polythene VCL should be laid over the insulation. Where a concrete slab or a screed is to be poured on top, the VCL will also protect the foil face of the board from alkalis within the concrete, and stop poured concrete opening board joints and causing a thermal break.
What insulation products can be used with underfloor heating?
Recticel Insulation's Eurothane® GP boards are compatible with both wet and electrical underfloor heating systems. Clipping a wet system through the VCL described above will not compromise the performance of the VCL or the insulation.
What is the minimum clear cavity when using Recticel Insulation cavity wall products?
As per the documentation for Eurowall® +, the clear cavity can be reduced to 10mm due to the innovative tongue & groove interlocking joint.
Eurowall® Cavity is certified for use in conjunction with a 25mm cavity. However, some warranty providers will not accept this and require a 50mm cavity, as do Scottish Building Standards. A wider cavity should be used in exposed locations.
If in doubt, seek advice from your Building Control Officer.
What membranes are required in flooring application when using Recticel PIR insulation boards?
For installation on a concrete slab it is recommended that a damp proof membrane is installed below the insulation and then an additional vapour control / separating layer above the insulation before the screed / floating floor finish.
For suspended floor applications such as timber joists there should be the vapour control / separating layer included again before the finish of timber or screed.
When installing Recticel PIR insulation boards on a suspended timber floor can it be put directly onto joists?
No, a suitable timber substrate should be included over the joists (minimum 18mm) before installing the insulation.
Where can I buy Recticel Insulation products?
Recticel Insulation's products are available via number of stores across the country.