1.10 Floor Insulation

New BCA 5-Star regulations now coming into force in several States mean it is compulsory to achieve minimum insulation values for raised floors. There are several alternatives which can be used, and some which can add sales value.

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Air-Cell insulation is a thermo-reflective insulation material which is suitable for roofs, ceilings, walls and floors (think bubble wrap with foil laminated on both sides). It achieves good thermal performance and is easy to install. It is specified quite frequently in Victoria, and they promote it heavily to Designers and Architects. See www.air-cell.com.au.

CSR Hebel SoundFloor is an aerated concrete panel (1800x600) which fixes easily to the DuraGal Flooring System® to provide a stiff, solid floor, ideal for laying tiles or where a suspended concrete floor is required. These installations are becoming more common, particularly in Southern NSW and S.A., and it is ideally suited to DFS. CSR are keen to do joint promotions as there are great synergies between the two products. See www.hebelaustralia.com.au.

Common bulk insulation batts are also suitable, but installation has been an issue. This has been addressed by Kevin Dent and Steel-Max Building Systems who have designed and produced a simple fitting to enable the installation between floor joists.

This system employs simple top-hat shaped brackets which are fabricated from galvanised steel which straddle the joists at approximately 1m spacing. Fibre cement sheeting is then laid on the hanger brackets between the joists, and the insulation batts are simply laid on top then the floor sheeting is laid as normal. These fittings are available to all Metalands, and Kevin is advertising them Nationally in Trade magazines (we have already had several enquiries for them). See www.steelmax.com.au.

Another option is Styrofoam brand insulation which is available through Aerodynamic Developments Pty Ltd Commonly used in poultry and piggery sheds, it is also increasingly used in domestic applications in roofs, walls and floors. It has excellent insulation properties, is easily handled and installed, and is waterproof. See www.aeromfg.com.au.