Title: How insulation works
Headings: Insulation works by providing resistance to heat flow.
Passive Design
How insulation works
Insulation works by providing resistance to heat flow.
Where heat is lost
R-values
How bulk insulation works
Reflective insulation
Thermal bridges

Content: This is much higher than the 14–18% generally assumed. You can find out more in ER53 Measuring the extent of thermal bridging in external timber-framed walls in New Zealand . If insulation has simply been installed between joists or studs, the R-value of the building element is likely to be less than the R-value of the insulation used because of the thermal bridging. Thermal bridging can be reduced through correct installation of insulation, and by using insulating features such as sheathing on the outside of studs or using thermal breaks in aluminium glazing. More detail is provided in the pages on roof insulation, wall insulation, floor insulation and windows . Updated: 19 October 2020