PIR (Polyisocyanurate) insulation board is a versatile and highly effective building material widely used for thermal insulation purposes in various construction applications. It is known for its exceptional thermal performance, durability, and fire resistance properties. Insulation Express will help provide you with an overview of what PIR insulation board is, its benefits, applications, and key considerations.
What is PIR Insulation Board?
PIR insulation board is a rigid foam insulation material composed of polyisocyanurate, a closed-cell foam that’s made by combining isocyanate and polyol. This combination results in a foam board with excellent insulation properties and high compressive strength. PIR insulation boards typically come in various thicknesses and sizes to suit different building requirements, such as 100mm or 50mm PIR insulation, so you can choose the one you need for your specific job.
We have a wide range of different Polyisocyanurate insulation board materials available to buy right now with Insulation Express. Simply choose from our extensive range of PIR boards below.
Benefits of PIR Insulation Board
Superior Thermal Performance: PIR insulation board offers exceptional thermal efficiency, providing high levels of insulation with a relatively thin board, which means you can have more space internally as the boards take up less room. Its closed-cell structure minimises heat transfer too, making it an ideal choice for improving the energy efficiency of buildings.
Fire Resistance: As initially mentioned, PIR insulation board has excellent fire-resistant properties, making it a safe option for use in any type of building. It has a high fire-retardant rating and will not contribute significantly to the spread of flames or smoke, keeping all building occupants that much safer in the event of a fire.
Moisture Resistance: PIR insulation board is also resistant to moisture and can withstand prolonged exposure without compromising its insulating properties. This characteristic makes it suitable for applications where moisture control is essential, such as basements, roofs, and other areas prone to high levels of humidity.
Compressive Strength: PIR insulation board is made of extremely strong materials, making it durable and resistant to damage from external forces. It can withstand heavy loads and maintain its insulation performance even under extreme pressure.
Versatility: PIR board is highly versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications for any building, including roofs, walls, floors, and ceilings. It can be easily cut to size and shaped to fit complex spaces, providing flexibility during the installation process to make things that little bit easier.
Environmental Considerations: PIR insulation board is a low-emission material and can contribute to energy savings by reducing the heating and cooling demands of a building. Additionally, it can be recycled, minimising its impact on the environment.
Applications of PIR Insulation Board
PIR insulation board can be applied in various areas, including:
- Roof Insulation: PIR insulation board can be used to insulate both flat and pitched roofs, providing effective thermal insulation and preventing heat loss from escaping upwards.
- Wall Insulation: PIR insulation board can be installed in cavity walls, timber frame walls, and masonry walls too to enhance energy efficiency and reduce heat transfer between rooms through the walls.
- Floor Insulation: PIR insulation board can also be used to insulate floors, particularly in suspended ground floors, improving thermal performance and reducing energy consumption.
- Ceiling and Loft Insulation: PIR insulation board is suitable for insulating ceilings and lofts, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor environment and prevent heat loss through the loft area.
What PIR Boards are available to buy?
Insulation Express has a wide range of PIR boards that you can buy right now, from all of the top insulation brands on the market. These include:
Key Considerations of PIR Insulation Boards
When considering installing PIR insulation board for your project, it’s important to keep the following points in mind:
- Thickness and R-Value: Select the appropriate thickness of PIR insulation board based on the desired R-value (a measure of thermal resistance). If you’re unsure of the thickness or R-Value you need for the job, it’s best to consult with an insulation professional to determine the optimal thickness for your specific application.
- Installation process: Proper installation is crucial for maximising the effectiveness of your PIR insulation board. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines (which you can often find on our product pages) and consider engaging a qualified insulation contractor for the installation itself.
- Building Regulations: Ensure that you comply with local building codes and regulations regarding insulation requirements and fire safety standards.
- Moisture Control: Take appropriate measures to control moisture during installation to maintain the long-term performance of the PIR insulation board.
Is PIR Insulation flammable?
PIR insulation is not usually flammable and it actually has a lot of fire-resistant properties, however, you will always need to double-check with the information from the product’s manufacturer to find out what fire rating it has been given.
Buy PIR Insulation Board here
On the whole, PIR boards offer outstanding thermal performance, fire resistance, and durability, making it an excellent choice for enhancing the energy efficiency of any building. Its versatility and moisture resistance properties further contribute to its popularity in a wide range of applications. When considering PIR insulation board, ensure proper installation and adhere to building regulations to achieve optimal results.
Browse through our full list of PIR products available to buy today with Insulation Express and choose the perfect material for your job.
