ADVERTORIAL ROCKWOOL
be friction-fitted without extensive cutting. Forming a continuous insulation layer is important, which is why ROCKWOOL completed a study with the University of Salford Thermal Measurement Laboratory to investigate the performance of stone wool insulation. The aim was to understand what happens when two pieces of ROCKWOOL insulation join together and how this impacts thermal performance. Based on independently measured data from the University of Salford, ROCKWOOL concluded that when its stone wool slabs are tightly joined, the edges knit together, providing a continuous insulating layer of trapped pockets of air with no gaps or associated loss of thermal performance.
L imiting heat gain and heat loss through the building fabric is a fundamental requirement of building regulations, and critical for maintaining energy efficiency. ROCKWOOL® has added two new products to its non-combustible stone wool insulation range to support builders and tradespeople to comply with regulations. These are the 150mm Thermal Insulation Cavity Slab 32 and the 140mm Sound Insulation Slab. 150mm Thermal Insulation Cavity Slab 32 This new product helps builders to meet the updated thermal regulations, including Part L 2021 in England. It is made using ROCKWOOL NyRock® technology and has a lambda rating of 0.032 W/mK, making it the most efficient stone wool insulation currently available in the UK and Ireland (correct at the time of going to press based on public information). Cavity Slab 32 is water- repellent and has a Euroclass A1 non-combustible reaction to fire classification – the highest
With stricter thermal regulations across the UK, builders and tradespeople need products that can help them to comply more easily BRIDGING THE GAP
140mm Sound Insulation Slab
In addition to Cavity Slab 32, ROCKWOOL has introduced a new 140mm Sound Insulation Slab, joining the existing range of 50mm, 70mm and 100mm thicknesses. With a lambda rating of 0.035 W/mK, 140mm Sound Insulation Slab can also be used for thermal insulation in external timber frame walls. This versatility means builders can use one product for multiple applications, simplifying the sourcing and purchasing process. Like Cavity Slab 32, Sound Slab is non-combustible with a Euroclass A1 rating and features a flexible edge for easy installation. For more information: rockwool.com/uk/trade
to increase heat transfer by 158 per cent of the design value. With this in mind, and as part of ADL 2021, there is now a requirement for photographic evidence at various construction stages before elements are concealed; there’s even more pressure on builders to achieve a tighter, continuous fit. This could require additional cutting on-site and/or taping at board joints with foil tape; however, pliable insulation such as stone wool can achieve a tight, continuous fit, as it can
classification available. Cavity Slab 32 also supports builders in achieving “continuity of insulation,” as referenced in Approved Document L (ADL) 2021 (England). Continuity is crucial to minimise thermal bridging, yet the ease of achieving this level of precise fit, and the time needed to achieve it, vary depending on the type of insulation used. While a small gap might seem insignificant, a study by Belgian Professor J Lecompte from 1990 found an air gap as small as 6mm is enough
22 Master Builder
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