Saving space with Vacuum Insulation
Discover how vacuum insulation technology can help you save valuable space without compromising thermal performance. Ideal for compact living, energy-efficient design, and modern construction.
The bespoke solution for insulating in limited space
Over the years, in the course of building both our expertise and our reputation in installing insulation for renovations, we’ve faced many challenges presented by small spaces. However, acting upon our experience, and by listening to our customers and partners, we took the issue of insulating in limited space to our Research & Development department.
Their solution? The innovative thin Deck-VQ®, quite simply, the answer to space-challenged flat roof and terrace insulation. Our Recticel Insulation team will provide you with a tailor-made VIP (vacuum insulation panel) design scheme for easy installation.
Optimise Thermal Performance Without Structural Modifications
Deck-VQ introduces a new generation of vacuum insulation panels (VIP) designed to deliver improved thermal performance while respecting existing structural constraints. With minimal thickness, there’s no need to raise parapets, alter thresholds, or modify joinery - perfect for preserving your building’s original design.
Key Benefits of Deck-VQ:
- Space-Efficient Insulation: Achieve high thermal resistance without increasing structural height.
- Simplified Installation: Personalized layout plans ensure efficient installation tailored to your building geometry and desired thermal performance.
- Versatile Compatibility: They are compatible with adhered single ply membranes and bituminous systems - minimizing installation constraints.
- Lightweight Design: Adds no significant load to the existing structure while providing long-term performance.
- Environmentally Responsible: Fewer materials mean reduced carbon emissions, aligning with the building sector’s goal of carbon neutrality.
Deck-VQ offers a cutting-edge, eco-conscious solution that balances thermal efficiency, simplicity, and sustainability.
Vacuum Insulation Panels (VIP): Installation Best Practices
Vacuum insulation is a high-performance technology that requires precision and care during installation. Following best practices ensures your VIP system performs optimally for decades.
Key Guidelines:
- Do Not Cut or Drill Panels
Cutting, sawing, or drilling VIPs will compromise their insulation performance. For edges and penetrations, use supplementary insulation (like Powerdeck F PIR boards) that can be modified safely. - Optimised Layouts Prevent Thermal Bridges
Panels must follow the roof’s geometry and required thermal resistance. Recticel’s design office provides customized layout plans, including: - Lettered VIP panels (A to D) in standard sizes
- Grey zones insulated with cuttable PIR panels for perimeter and edge adjustments
- Proper Fixing Methods
VIPs can only be installed via: - Cold bonding using polyurethane adhesive
- Loose laying under ballast
Mechanical fixing (e.g., drilling) is strictly forbidden to preserve vacuum integrity. - Storage and Moisture Protection
- Store panels in a dry, protected environment before installation
- Place a suitable vapour barrier under the insulation
- Seal the insulation layer and raise vapour barriers at edges to prevent moisture penetration
By adhering to these installation practices, Deck-VQ panels deliver maximum thermal resistance and maintain long-term performance.
FAQs
Vacuum insulation
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.