U Values Explained - What Do I Need to Know?

Understanding U Values is crucial when making your home more energy efficient. U Values also known as Thermal Transmittance values, measure how effective materials are at insulating your home. U Values tell you how well materials can prevent heat from escaping through your Attic, Walls, Windows & Doors. All materials will have different U Values popular materials which include a high U Value include materials such as Earthwool or PIR (Polyisocyanurate). We aim to give you a clear understanding of U Values to help with your energy efficiency project.

Defining U Values

U Values are expressed in terms of watts per square metre, with lower U Value indicating the more effective a material is at preventing heat transfer. U Values can refer to just a single material of a composite material. High U Values will allow more heat to pass through the material, causing your home’s heating system to work harder.

NSAI Material Standards

The National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) sets the standard for different construction materials including insulation. NSAI standards ensure that products meet different performance criteria, and products are then issued with a certificate. When selecting Insulation products make sure the product comes with a NSAI certification to ensure the quality and U Value of the product.

Earthwool Insulation

Earthwool is a popular insulation material and is known for being cost effective and providing excellent thermal performance. It achieves a U Value of 0.16 kWh when installed at a depth of 300mm. This makes it the ideal product to insulate large areas of the attic. Earthwool will ensure your home stays warm during the winter.

PIR Insulation

Polyisocyanurate (PIR) insulation boards are another option for insulation; typically they have high thermal resistance which results in low values. Due to this they are more costly than other forms of insulation, as a rigid material they are best suited to use in extensions and used as part of a flooring solution.

Material Selection

An understanding of U Values is essentially for anyone looking to make their home more energy efficient. Lower U Values indicate better insulation,m materials such as earthwool and PIR are great for use in attic. Whenever you select a material please always check for a NSAI certification to ensure the material is of good standard. With the right insulation you can reduce heat loss and keep your home warmer in winter. Which can lead to some massive savings on Oil or Gas Prices.