Can I recess cables into Recticel PIR insulation boards?
Cables should not be recessed into the insulation boards. They may be laid between two layers of boards with the cabling oversized to accommodate for an increase in operating temperature. If cables penetrate an insulation layer, PIR will have no detrimental effect on cable sheathing.
Further guidance on the above should be obtained from a qualified electrician.
Can I recess downlighters into Recticel PIR insulation boards?
General best practice in such scenarios would be to include for a battened service zone to avoid compromising the performance both the insulation and the vapour control layer. The required depth of this “void” should be determined by the requirements of the specific lighting manufacturer.
If this is not suitable and the lighting needs to be recessed, then advice should be sought from the downlighter manufacturer.
For more information regarding this, an information document can be found within the IMA Resource Centre on the 'Use of downlighters, recessed lights or spotlights and PIR PUR insulation' here.
Can I use Vacuum Insulation Panels (VIP) in a tapered flat roof solution?
Yes, this is possible and recommended. We always advise a slope towards the outlets to ensure an adequate water drainage to avoid water stagnation on the roof.
There are generally two ways to approach this with Deck-VQ®:
- The fall is incorporated in the substrate (screed layer): in this case the Deck-VQ® boards will follow the existing fall.
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The fall is incorporated in the insulation layer: in this case Deck-VQ® can be combined with our tapered insulation* boards (Powerdeck® F or Eurothane® Eurodeck) on top. Our technical service with specialized tapered design service then provides an easy-to-use design for both insulation layers.
*Tapered insulation incorporates the slope over the length of the panel. Therefore, the panels can be installed on a flat surface, tightly jointed whilst resulting in a sloped top surface. Tapered insulation presents the ideal solution for a technically correct and thermally optimal build-up.
Contact our vacuum insulation specialist
Can I walk on Deck-VQ® vacuum insulation panels?
Yes, this is possible due to the protection layers in high density PIR and the compressive strength of 150 kPa (CS(10\Y)150). Deck-VQ® is suitable for application in flat roofs and terraces, subject to light foot traffic.
As for every type of insulation, we recommend to limit the foot traffic during installation to a minimum and apply the waterproofing as soon as possible after installation. It is best practice to only install the area you are able to insulate AND waterproof in one day.
Can insulation be placed between and over flat roof joists?
BS 5250:2011, the British Standard for the control of condensation in buildings, does not recommend installing insulation between timber joists as well as above the deck.
However, not all hybrid roofs will show condensation risk, our Technical Services team will be happy to assist with U-value calculations and condensation risk analysis where required, we will also discuss the potential risks involved, but please note all calculations will be marked “NOT RECOMMENDED” inline with the British Standard.
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.
Can you drill, nail or saw into a Vacuum Insulation Panel?
No, because these actions will lead to the loss of vacuum in the VIP and reduce the thermal performance by a factor of three*.
Our Deck-VQ® concept offers an optimum protection to prevent most damage on site. (see “What is the difference between Deck-VQ® and a Vacuum Insulation Panel?”).
Our technical services provide guidance and deliver a detailed design for your project.
Do not hesitate to contact us for further information (see also “How to install Deck-VQ®?”).
*The thermal conductivity of the core material rises to ca. 0,020 W/mK under ambient pressure.
Do I have to follow a training course regarding the safe use of diisocyanates?
Does Recticel offer a tapered insulation products?
Many flat roofing problems are attributed to ineffective rainwater run-off. This can cause deflection of the roof deck and 'ponding' of rainwater, and have a significant impact on the lifespan of the roof. Recticel's flat roofing tapered insulation division - Gradient - provides bespoke tapered insulation solutions, allowing virtually any fall to be created on either a new or existing roof. A Gradient tapered roof will:
- Improve thermal and acoustic performance
- Minimise ponding and roof loading
- Restrict build-up of rooftop debris
- Reduce the resulting maintenance costs
- Provide a longer, more effective working life
- Aid compliance with Building Regulations
In providing this service, Gradient will work out a detailed roof plan and calculate the exact number of boards required in advance. They work exclusively with Recticel to provide specialist PIR insulation solutions, but are not limited in their choice of materials and can produce specifications that include mineral wool, polystyrene and cork. This enables Gradient to deliver truly unique and bespoke solutions, utilising the best characteristics of all the insulation materials available in the UK today.
How should I store Recticel Insulation boards?
Our boards are supplied in polythene shrink wrap which is designed for short-term protection only. It is accepted that storing boards indoors is not always possible – when outdoor storage is necessary, boards should be stored clear of the ground, on a level surface, and under cover to protect them from prolonged exposure to moisture or mechanical damage.
Speak to our technical experts