Can polyiso insulation be used in residential construction?
According to the Department of Energy, heating and cooling costs comprise more than 44% of the energy consumed in a single family home. As many design professionals are well aware, choosing energy-efficient insulation can be one of the most effective ways to save energy and money. Typically, polyiso insulation is used to insulate the entire wall (including the framing, which accounts for at least 20% of the total wall area and often is uninsulated), thereby significantly reducing heat loss through both convection and conduction. Additionally, properly insulating a structure with polyiso can decrease condensation in the walls, potentially lowering moisture-related problems. When properly specified and installed, polyiso sheathing insulation can be one of the best values available for residential construction.