What is the best way of achieving an air and vapour barrier when using Recticel PIR insulation panels?
As per the literature supplied with the product - an effective air and vapour barrier can be achieved by the taping of board joints using suitable insulation tape, the inclusion of a separate proprietary vapour control layer or the use of a foil backed plasterboard all of these methods are acceptable forms of air/vapour control.
What is the difference between a U-value and an R-value?
U-values take into account all elements of a construction, including thermal bridges. They can only be worked out by calculation. The R-value, or thermal resistance, is a measure of the insulation board on its own, dividing the thickness (in metres) by the thermal conductivity (lambda value, W/m.K). The R-value can be used to compare how different thicknesses of products with different lambda values perform comparatively.
What is the difference between Deck-VQ® and a Vacuum Insulation Panel?
Deck-VQ® is an encased Vacuum Insulation Panels (VIP – see “What is a VIP?”). The main difference with the VIP as such lies in the level of protection against physical damage. The so called “naked” panel offers little protection of the high barrier envelope, whereas the Deck-VQ® concept offers a protective high density PIR layer on all sides.
Deck-VQ®: 
Core-VQ: 
The Deck-VQ® concept provides a rigid panel and an excellent compatibility with a variety of waterproofing systems. In combination with the exceptional thermal performance, this solution is highly recommended for flat roof and terrace applications where limited space is available.
What is the maximum temperature resistance of Recticel Insulation products?
Recticel Insulation products can withstand a safe operating temperature range of -20°C to 100°C. Higher temperatures can be withstood for a brief time in certain applications, for example when adhering hot bitumen to appropriate flat roofing boards.
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 is the minimum working temperature for installing Recticel Insulation boards?
Recticel Insulation products should not be installed on site when the temperature is below 5°C. Below this, condensation may form.
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.
What quality standards do Recticel Insulation products meet?
Recticel Insulation prides itself on the quality of its product, particularly its dimensional stability and flatness. We consider the quality of our boards to be second to none. Recticel operates a Quality Management System in accordance with the requirements of BS EN ISO 9001:2015 and offers CE Marking to 'ISO EN 13165 - Thermal insulation products for buildings - Factory made rigid polyurethane foam (PU) products - Specification'.
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.