Fiberglass Insulation  

Fiberglass insulation is the most common and affordable insulation material used in buildings. It’s made from tiny glass fibers and usually comes in rolls (called batts).

Foam boards  

Foam board insulation, or rigid foam, is used in walls, roofs, basements, and under concrete slabs. The boards are made from materials like polystyrene or polyisocyanurate.

They don’t absorb much moisture because of thin layers that resist heat flow. Foam boards are more expensive than fiberglass but are excellent for tight spaces or areas that need high thermal resistance.  

Spray foam (XPS, EPS)  

It’s often used inside walls, around pipes, and in hard-to-reach corners of attics or basements. When applied, spray foam expands as a liquid, filling in cracks and gaps completely. There are two types: open-cell (softer and cheaper) and closed-cell (denser and more moisture-resistant).

Spray foam provides insulation and air sealing, making it very energy efficient. However, it’s more costly and usually needs to be installed by professionals.

Mineral foam  

Mineral wool insulation, also called rock wool or stone wool, is made from natural rock or recycled metal slag. Mineral wool insulation is known for its fire resistance, soundproofing, and water resistance. It’s popular in commercial buildings or places where fire safety is a big concern.  

Where Insulation is Used in Construction    

The roof of the building is one of the most critical areas to focus on because it is a major source of heat loss or gain. Proper attic insulation helps keep buildings cooler in summer and warmer in winter, reducing the need for heating and cooling systems. 

• Types Used: Glass wool, mineral wool, foam boards, spray foam, reflective insulation.  

• Application: Installed under the roof sheathing, above the ceiling, or in attic spaces.

Wall Insulation (External and Internal Walls)  

Insulation of walls helps both maintain indoor temperature and reduce noise from outside. Internal wall insulation helps with soundproofing, while external wall insulation helps in conserving energy.    

 Materials used: Fiberglass, mineral wool, foam board, spray foam.  

Application: Inside stud cavities or as an external insulation layer.  

  

Floor and Slab Insulation  

Floors, especially on top of unheated spaces like basements or garages, require such insulation. It provides heat loss and improves comfort underfoot.  

Materials used: Rigid foam boards, mineral wool  

Application: Under floorboards, slabs, or crawl spaces       

  

Basement and Foundation Insulation   

Basements and foundations are in constant contact with the ground, which means they can become significant sources of heat loss, moisture intrusion, and indoor discomfort if not properly insulated.

Insulating these areas helps maintain stable indoor temperatures and prevents issues like condensation, mold growth, and frost damage to the building structure. It also helps convert the basement into a livable and comfortable space.

Materials used: Foam boards, spray foam, mineral wool.

Application: On the interior or exterior side of the foundation walls .

  

HVAC Duct and Pipe Insulation  

One of the most overlooked yet critical components of an energy-efficient building is the proper insulation of HVAC ducts and piping. Insulating HVAC ducts and pipes ensures that conditioned air and fluids maintain their desired temperatures as they move through a building. Such insulation helps prevent condensation and pipe-freezing in winter.

 Materials used: Elastomeric foam, fiberglass wraps, polyethylene foam

Application: Around HVAC ducts, hot/cold water pipes, refrigerant lines

  

Doors, Windows & Gaps (Air Sealing)  

Doors, windows, and minor structural gaps are familiar sources of uncontrolled air leakage. It can lead to significant energy loss, reduced indoor comfort, moisture intrusion, and even long-term damage to structural components.

Though not “insulation” traditionally, sealing gaps around doors, windows, and joints with insulation foam or weatherstripping reduces drafts and air leakage. Proper air sealing is a cost-effective, high-impact step toward achieving energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

Materials used: Expanding spray foam, foam strips, caulking.

Application: Around door frames, window edges, utility penetrations

  

Acoustic Insulation (Soundproofing)  

In today’s built environments—whether residential, commercial, or institutional—acoustic comfort is becoming as important as thermal comfort. As buildings grow more densely packed and multifunctional, controlling sound transmission between spaces is critical to maintaining privacy, productivity, and overall occupant well-being.    

Materials used: Mineral wool, acoustic foam panels  

Application: In walls, ceilings, and floors  

    

Cold Storage and Specialized Insulated Buildings  

In environments where temperature control is mission-critical, such as cold storage facilities, refrigerated warehouses, pharmaceutical labs, or clean rooms, specialized insulation systems are non-negotiable.   

Materials used: Polyisocyanurate boards, spray foam  

Application: All around the envelope (walls, ceilings, floors)