ITAZ RQ: Insulation

Question 1

Insulation:

What role does air play in insulation materials?

Answer 1

• To dry insulation materials/insulation cavities.

- Still air is a very good insulator. A good insulation material is one that traps air and list its movement.

Question 2

Insulation:

Define relative humidity.

Answer 2

• The amount of moisture in the air relative to the amount it could hold if saturated, expressed as a percentage.

Question 3

Insulation:

Why are roofs vented in the winter in cold climates?

Answer 3

• We are not able to completely stop air leakage into cool roof spaces, so we need to get rid of that warm, moist air to prevent rot/mold/destructive conditions.

Question 4

Insulation:

List 10 common insulation materials.

Answer 4

• Fiberglass
• Cellulose fiber
• Mineral wool
• Vermiculite/perlite
• Expanded polystyrene (EPS)
• Extruded polysttyrene
• Closed cell phenolic plastic
• Polyiosycanurate
• Polyurethane
• Isocyanate/polyisocyanate

Question 5

Insulation:

Is it more important for the air barrier or vapor barrier to be continuous?

Answer 5

• Air barrier

Question 6

Insulation:

Should the vapor barrier be on the warm side or cold side of the wall assembly in a hot, humid climate? 19

Answer 6

• Warm side

Question 7

Insulation:

List four types of roof vents.

Answer 7

• Soffit
• Ridge
• Roof
• Gable

Question 8

Insulation:

What percentage of the total attic venting should be at the soffits?

Answer 8

• 50%

Question 9

Insulation:

What amount of ventilation is typical recommended for a low-slope, flat or cathedral roofs?

Answer 9

• 1/150

Question 10

Insulation:

Why should power vents not be operated in the winter?

Answer 10

• It can create a negative pressure zone resulting in pulling warm air from interior into the attic.

Question 11

Insulation:

What do soffit vent baffles do?

Answer 11

• Keep insulation away from soffit vents.

Question 12

Insulation:

List at least three things that may make attics dangerous.

Answer 12

• Fall through the ceiling
• Electric shock
• Irritate lungs, eyes, skin