View Full Version : Roof insulation.
duderoo
23-05-2007, 12:49 PM
Any recommendations on roof insualtion. I have heard the think pink stuff ain't that great and I was keen on going for that paper mulch stuff?
ToxicBunny
23-05-2007, 01:28 PM
The pink stuff is great.. works like a bomb.. but its bad, asbestos and all that and itches like fsck...
duderoo
23-05-2007, 01:36 PM
Why do you say it is bad?
RichardG
23-05-2007, 01:37 PM
Well "Think Pink" has made a diffrence but someone told me it attracts Rats. Ever since we installed think pink. It actually happen Rats are now on the roof.....
Yeah it does itche like hell. I got <deleted by='ic' reason='slur'/> to do the job for me for R550 including the electric fencing and to install think pink :))))))))
Oh buy "Think Pink" at Builders warehouse they are the chepist place. To find it.
ToxicBunny
23-05-2007, 01:53 PM
Aerolite used to be asbestos based... (at least the rubbish i have in my roof is).. new stuff prob not so much anymore....
bwana
23-05-2007, 02:07 PM
The pink stuff is great if it is anything like the insulation we used to lay in the states. Just wear gloves, a mask and some goggles - that fiber-glass itches like a beatch.
Digilus
23-05-2007, 02:08 PM
I was keen on going for that paper mulch stuff?
I've also had this decision to make a little while ago and decided on the paper type stuff - firstly it is super easy for the gyus to install (just a big vacumn cleaner type thing) and secondly it was almost the same price as think pink.
The big decider in it's favour was, that if I want to install new lighting or do wiring in the roof, all you have to do is scoop the stuff away and you have access to the ceiling boards. With the think pink stuff you'd have to remove / cut / roll away sections of it. My one worry was the wind and what it would do to the light paper, but I live in Gordons Bay and we regularly have winds that move dustbins (and sometimes small cars) - and so far it looks fine still - a little fluff initially fell through where the downlighters were but that cleared up in the first few days - I assume it was just settling.
- my 2c.
ToxicBunny
23-05-2007, 02:08 PM
bwana : its almost precisely the same stuff...
Just lay it down in the ceiling and it makes SUCH a difference inside the house...
LandyMan
23-05-2007, 02:25 PM
Isotherm ... looking at probably around R30/m2 ... don't know how that compares with Aerolite ... had it in my old house ... warm in winter, cool in summer
duderoo
23-05-2007, 02:36 PM
I have been reading about aerolite and this cellulose paper stuff and it seems that the cellulose is greener to manufacture, and there is the risk, even slight, of fibres for one's self, but maybe the cellulose is the way to go.
There was a company who was at home-makers expo but cannot remember who they were?
Goobie
23-05-2007, 02:50 PM
With Think Pink make sure you get the THICKEST possible, which if I'm not mistaken is 10cm. With the cold weather we have been having in Bfn, there is on average a 12-15 degree difference between inside and outside. In summer I have recorded a 10 degree difference between the inside and outside. You have to "manage" the house to get it like that; in summer the windows stays open until about 9am and then the house get locked down - keeps the cool air inside.
Problem with the cellulose paper stuff is that should you have a leaking roof it quickly turns into one huge HEAVY piece of paper goo that drops a ceiling in no time - or so I've heard
duderoo
23-05-2007, 03:54 PM
the cellulose seems to have a better insulation (R-Value than anything else)
Luke7777
23-05-2007, 04:37 PM
I'm with Landy here. Isotherm for the win. None of these itchy stuff, and much easier to find a few dead rats under :D My only problem is getting rid of the ancient itchy stuff still on my ceiling ............
Arcam4
23-05-2007, 04:37 PM
Don't know about Cpt, but here in Jozi there is a co. called IRC. They had a special about 3 months ago where the 50mm, 75mm & 100mm went for the same price. They also insulate your geyser (can set it down by approx 5-10 degr) and pipework @ no additional costs.
Did my top floor (appr 60 sq metre) with the 100mm earolite for R1750 installed. Took them approx 45mins.
What a difference, summer and now!!!
O yes, their tel. (011)7915477/2300 if interested
Arcam4
23-05-2007, 04:40 PM
O Yes they changed the things it is made from. Not so itchy anymore and birds hate the new thing. Don't know about rats however. No problems so far, touch wood!
dotVIBE
23-05-2007, 04:43 PM
We only use Isotherm when we do new unit isolation. You get it in different thicknesses, easy to install too. Think Pink is an outmoded, outdated product.
PS. Be carefull when installing isotherm over any transformer (for downlighters etc). The transformer will overheat and die. Best to cut a hole in the fabric at such places.
Sollie
23-05-2007, 10:25 PM
Normally the paper type is chemically treated to be flame retardant. However, I guess that would vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Another alternative not mentioned here is vermiculite. For those that do not know it, it reminds you of those tiny polystyrene cells your get when you break polystyrene apart. You can compress the granules between your fingers, but they jump back to their form after releasing the tension. It is some form of rock, believe it or not. You also find it in pot plants as a natural sponge, mixed with the soil. It kind of reminds you of layered mica based on it's metallic look, but it is not. 100% fire proof. Environmental friendly. Price: unknown.
Party trick: Pick up a big big bag of the stuff, 3 x times the size of a cement bag, with one finger :D
bekdik
23-05-2007, 10:46 PM
I installed thinkpink a long long time ago. it's fibre glass and does itch like hell!! but my house temp stays 20 deg C +- 2 . if you have it installed and i recommend that you do, lag your cylinder as well
supersunbird
24-05-2007, 06:19 AM
We have a flat roofed house, so would have too remove the roof panels to put this in, but I so want to!
Goobie
24-05-2007, 08:02 AM
Why is itching a problem for people? Once it is installed (the installer itches but thats what he get paid for) and if you don't go rolling in it you will NEVER experience the itching. I go up to the attic area ALOT as I constantly improve my LAN cabling and I have NEVER itched from it.
From their respective websites:
The R-value for 100mm Think Pink is 2.5
The R-value for 100mm Isotherm is 2.2
bwana
24-05-2007, 08:10 AM
Why is itching a problem for people? Once it is installed (the installer itches but thats what he get paid for) and if you don't go rolling in it you will NEVER experience the itching. I go up to the attic area ALOT as I constantly improve my LAN cabling and I have NEVER itched from it.
From their respective websites:
The R-value for 100mm Think Pink is 2.5
The R-value for 100mm Isotherm is 2.2Itching is only a problem if you lay it yourself or regularly work with it without gloves. More important though is the mask so you dont breathe in the fibres.
We have a flat roofed house, so would have too remove the roof panels to put this in, but I so want to!
Concrete flat roof ? If it is spread a layer of stone 75mm thick over the roof, also helps to protect the waterproofing from the sun.
Goobie
24-05-2007, 08:11 AM
so you dont breathe in the fibres.
yes but the fibres keep me regular :)
bwana
24-05-2007, 08:16 AM
yes but the fibres keep me regular :)Ok - OUCH! :eek:
duderoo
24-05-2007, 09:19 AM
From their respective websites:
The R-value for 100mm Think Pink is 2.5
The R-value for 100mm Isotherm is 2.2
Eco-insulation is 2.65 something. www.eco-insulation.co.za
Aerolite : R22/m2
Isotherm: R40/m2 (ouch)
Cellulose : R27-33/m2
JungleRumble
14-02-2008, 03:23 PM
A late reply but allow me to add my 2c worth. "Think Pink" is made of glasswool, that is why it itches. Normally not a problem, as one can use prot gear when installing, but you may have to go back into your ceilng at some stage for repairs - then the itching starts all over again. I have the cellulose stuff in my ceiling in the Cape, but I will not use it again. They claim all kinds of SABS ratings (adverts look like Idi Amin's uniform) but my experienc eis that the so-called 75mm layer tends to compress over time. My 75mm installed layer is now only 30mm thick! It's also difficult to work in the ceiling without disturbing the stuff. Isotherm is the best option as it is made of polyester, not glass. It does not itch and it is made of recycled PET (Sprite) bottles. In essence all the products available has similar R values, so they do the job. With Isotherm at least you know you are assisting with removing PET bottles from rubbish heaps. Working in your ceiling and handling the product afterwards is also easier - no itch and no disturbing the paper stuff.
VJB 449
14-02-2008, 09:15 PM
Anybody have an idea what the current cost of isotherm is (with insulation). Guess my choice will be between aerolite or isotherm.
JungleRumble
15-02-2008, 10:05 AM
Isotherm itself costs around R135 - R140 per roll (depending on thickness). A roll covers 12m2. It is 1.2 m wide and 10m long. That works out to around R12/m2. If someone charges you more (eg R40/m2) you've been ripped off!. In fact, Earolite and Isotherm costs very much the same at a place like Builders warehouse. That previously mentioned R40/m2 must be an installed price - and it is very high. Get the Isotherm and DIY.
JungleRumble
15-02-2008, 12:30 PM
Hey guys. I am busy installing insulation myself - and here is the facts on Isotherm that I have gathered by phoning Brits Nonwoven, the company that manufactures it.
When you buy- compare apples with apples. Isotherm comes in 40mm, 50mm, 75mm and 100mm thickness. The thicker, the better "R" value (better insulation), but also the more expensive. Most retailers only stock the 40mm and 50mm - for obvious reasons. According to Brits, the price should range bewteen R12/m2 and R27/m2 (installation excluded), depeding on thickness.
Earolite has a similar range - not sure what it is, as I am staying away from glass.
lucifir
15-02-2008, 01:27 PM
in terms of the installation .... what is involved and do you get instructions from the vendors of the products???
werries2
15-02-2008, 01:45 PM
Heard about the insulation material that they spray on the ceiling? Thought of getting this done, but have not done any home work on it yet.
JungleRumble
18-02-2008, 03:40 PM
When you buy the Isotherm, ask the retailer for an installation leaflet. If they are out - visit www.isotherm.co.za
gregmcc
18-02-2008, 04:17 PM
I'm going to be doing my roof in a few weeks time - also decided to go the isotherm route.
The pricing I've got is:
1.2MX40MMX10M R149
1.2MX50MMX10M R177
Goobie
19-02-2008, 08:39 AM
I'm going to be doing my roof in a few weeks time - also decided to go the isotherm route.
The pricing I've got is:
1.2MX40MMX10M R149
1.2MX50MMX10M R177
50mm is WAAAAAY too thin and is a waste of money. Go for at least the 100mm thinkness, if isotherm doesn't have them, go with thinkpink.
I have the pink stuff in the roof and it is amazing, works fine.
thisgeek
10-04-2008, 11:03 AM
Sorry to dig up an old thread, but does anyone have any recommended installers in the East Rand area for either Isotherm or the cellulose fibre? I'm also looking for a geyser blanket installer.
Everybody I've tried either doesn't answer their phones or are not around.
Hmm... I really can't decide between Isotherm and the recycled paper/cellulose one.
thisgeek
10-04-2008, 12:33 PM
Me either. I want to get prices on both.. I think the isotherm will be less messy though.
The isotherm's a little more expensive according to quotes I just got - 2 x 50mm Isotherm (making 110mm) comes to R36 per sq. metre. Eco Insulation comes to R33 per sq. metre.
thisgeek
10-04-2008, 01:51 PM
I'm assuming that's installed?
My problem is finding someone that actually answers their phone :p
Christoff Viljoen
10-04-2008, 02:13 PM
I've installed a product by the name of Isotherm, its great, my house temperature went up by approximately 4-7 degrees in winter.
JungleRumble
10-04-2008, 02:57 PM
As mentioned in my previous post, I have the cellulose stuff in my ceiling. It works fine - for the first year or two. The problem is that it tends to get "thinner" with time. Wind, movement and moisture in the ceiling tends to influence it. I had 75mm installed, but now it is only 20mm thick in places.
Will not use it again. Go for Isotherm.
Albereth
10-04-2008, 03:42 PM
Anyone watch Holmes on Homes?
He always has some guys spraying a foam insulation and well as stuff that looks like those foam mattresses. I think Canadians know about the cold.
As mentioned in my previous post, I have the cellulose stuff in my ceiling. It works fine - for the first year or two. The problem is that it tends to get "thinner" with time. Wind, movement and moisture in the ceiling tends to influence it. I had 75mm installed, but now it is only 20mm thick in places.
Will not use it again. Go for Isotherm.
Ah, I missed your post about the cellulose thinning out - that makes a big difference. I guess I'm leaning towards Isotherm and doing a (blech) self install.
thisgeek
16-04-2008, 09:11 AM
For Isotherm:
I got hold of Erwin Bauernschmitt on 083 417 6450. He says he's fully booked until June, so he referred me to a Tommy Lamont on 072 113 4893. He gave me a price of R36/m2 for 100mm, and he's available from May.
Albereth
16-04-2008, 10:00 AM
Thanks TG
JungleRumble
16-04-2008, 03:06 PM
Must say Isotherm is easy to self install. Once you are up in the ceiling with a pair of sheep shear scissors (best to use) and a couple of beers, even the heat stops bothering one. Ensure you do not miss a spot, and ensure the web lies flat on the ceiling.
Any recommendations on roof insualtion. I have heard the think pink stuff ain't that great and I was keen on going for that paper mulch stuff?
I've also got the pink stuff and it is brilliant, can't say if it itches or not i got some other poor sap to install the stuff. My cousin used the paper mulch and he ended up vacuuming the stuff up and threw it away.
Paulr
16-04-2008, 07:27 PM
Must say Isotherm is easy to self install. Once you are up in the ceiling with a pair of sheep shear scissors (best to use) and a couple of beers, even the heat stops bothering one. Ensure you do not miss a spot, and ensure the web lies flat on the ceiling.
Good advice - dehydration is a serious medical condition!!! :cool:
greg_SA
24-04-2008, 01:10 PM
After reading this thread, it looks like Isotherm is the way to go :D
I got some prices for the Isotherm material - 100mm thick.
I'll prices include VAT
R221.00 for 1.2m wide, 6m long
R277.00 for 0.75m wide, 6m long x 2 rolls
Works out to be about R30 per m2.
flarkit
24-04-2008, 01:41 PM
Greg, who did you contact for those prices?
thisgeek
24-04-2008, 01:53 PM
Tommy is doing my installation near the end of May. He's charging me R35/m2. He will also wrap the geyser & pipes at no extra charge.
greg_SA
24-04-2008, 03:32 PM
Greg, who did you contact for those prices?
I'm in the Cape - from Brights. Most places have to order the 100mm specifically.
I still have to find out if they deliver it or not - I think those rolls are quite big! :D
I've tried to get an installer, but no one comes back to me! :mad:
Can anyone confirm that this stuff is really going to make a noticible difference?
JungleRumble
24-04-2008, 03:42 PM
Insulating your roof really makes a difference. There is a condition though:
Once insulated, you should preferabily keep your windows and curtains on the western side of your house closed. Warm air that enters tends to be trapped inside. My experience in the Cape with my western facing bedroom window was that in summer the house was nice and cool during the day - but at night the room was relatively warm (compred to ambient temp) That was because the sun baked the room warm via the uncovered window - and the insulation prevented the heat from escaping through the ceiling.
However, I used the paper stuff - and not Isotherm.
greg_SA
24-04-2008, 04:16 PM
Thanks for the info :D
I think I'm going to go ahead and install...
I just got a quote from Home Comfort for an installed price of R65 per m2! And that is for 75mm! What a joke!
Robmo
01-03-2009, 05:46 PM
Please is there any info on using Spray foam, watching how they use it overseas makes so much sense.
BrianB
03-09-2009, 09:31 AM
Ok, I have decided to go the DIY route and use Isotherm.
Where is the cheapest place to buy it in the Durban(Highway) area?
JungleRumble
07-09-2009, 02:00 PM
Phone 031 713 2397. They should be able to guide you towards a reputable retailer.
Imusno
12-09-2009, 02:01 AM
I came accross a product that is called Vermiculite. Looks like very small popcorn, also used in the nursery environment as a medium instead of soil. I believe it is used extensively in Europe for insulation in ceilings. Made in SA. Comes in bags of 7kg's that fits throught the manhole to your ceiling, pour it out and level it between the beams approx 2.5cm below the thickness of the horizontal beams so it will give you a thickness of +-111.5mm. It is hypo-alergy, flame retardent and all other good things. I just moved house and as soon as I have unpacked my business card holder I will post the company and contact number
captainwifi
12-09-2009, 09:26 AM
Any recommendations on roof insualtion. I have heard the think pink stuff ain't that great and I was keen on going for that paper mulch stuff?
Best idea came from Pop mechanics SA edition: A certain green shrub is placed inside boxes, placed on the roof (5cm x20cm x 40cm) and absorbes all the heat from the sun. What happens if it doesn't rain? Can't remember but this is why the article specified a specific plant.
Another place to look is at http://www.patentstorm.us and look for roof insulation techniques, many ideas available there.
ToxicBunny
12-09-2009, 09:28 AM
Have you tried any of your "ideas" yourself wifybabycakes?
Has it ever occured to you that on the scale of a single house its actually cheaper to just pay someone to come and put in a "conventional" product.
ayeque
12-09-2009, 09:33 AM
what kin da of roof do you have if its roof sheeting then sisalation if its roof tiles then pink aerolite
what kin da of roof do you have if its roof sheeting then sisalation if its roof tiles then pink aerolite
Sorry, what?
ToxicBunny
12-09-2009, 08:26 PM
What be sisalation?
Kompete
14-09-2009, 05:16 PM
Good thread. I have stayed away from roof insulation, since I had to fix some issues in my roof cavity first.
Based on the advise here, it looks like I'll be going with Isotherm 100mm. Tx ;)
oomjan
07-01-2011, 02:28 PM
Just for the record on price. I'm in Cape Town
Builders Warehouse (self install):
Aerolite 100mm : R25m2
Isotherm 100mm : R42m2
Aerolite Installed (2 quotes):
R41.50m2 for >200m2
R43m2 for <200m2
Struggling to find quotes for Isotherm installed
spiff
08-01-2011, 08:41 AM
I had a company called Pregare come and install their stuff, almost like Isolite, basically a recycled product (PET) with a foil covering. what a difference!! I also self installed double glazing on all my windows, consequently I regularly seen a 6-8degree difference in the in & out temp!! Problem is it can get a bit stuffy inside when the outside temp drops below the inside temp but I'm planning on installing a filtered ventilation system this year which will solve that problem.
lucifir
10-01-2011, 10:55 AM
spiff ... what did your install cost you??
also, can you explain the filtered ventilation system, and how this will help exactly?? Where and how will these be installed??
I want to put in some isotherm, but not sure about the process and costs,etc.
oomjan
10-01-2011, 12:08 PM
Just got quote for Isotherm installed
R57m2 for 75mm
Now, while I would love to go for the Isotherm, Aerolite will cost me R41.50m2 for 100mm
Thats a R3100 difference on 200m2 roof, that could buy me other toys :)
spiff
10-01-2011, 04:47 PM
spiff ... what did your install cost you??
also, can you explain the filtered ventilation system, and how this will help exactly?? Where and how will these be installed??
I want to put in some isotherm, but not sure about the process and costs,etc.
no problem - I will have to dig out the receipt but I'm sure it was around R2500-00 for +-85 square meters at the time. also I've since learnt that pregare was taken over by another company, not sure who yet.
the filtered system - I must add here that this only really applies to my situation. after they installed the roof insulation, I smashed out all my front windows and replaced them with tinted burglar proof laminate glass on the inside & outside of the frames. the reason I did this is because I suffer from allergies so I wanted to permanently seal all the front windows and it worked out cheaper than having aluminium windows frames installed. The roof insulation & double glazing works very well and keeps the house cool in summer and warm in winter, I even tossed out my jet master as I no longer need a heater in winter :)
As I prefer the cold weather the problem I now have is that in summer during the night when the OUTSIDE temp drops lower than the INSIDE temp, then it becomes uncomfortably warm inside, so I'm going to install a ventilation system that will switch on when the temp outside starts to drop until it reaches a set cut off point thus cooling the inside, the filtered part is just for my own comfort. there is a company out in Brackenfell that does custom ventilation systems, they r in Tee Jay Rd Brackenfell IND. it gets installed in yr roof and they have vents in the ceiling that u can operate via a remote eg. open or close.
I chose the pregare stuff as I did not fancy the pink glass fiber or the shredded paper stuff!
if u planing on installing downlighters - do them first before installing roof insulation.
also keeping doors, windows & curtains closed on hot days, will help to keep the inside temp down - think of yr house as a fridge - keep it shut and it will stay cool / warm.
spiff
11-01-2011, 09:34 AM
Anyone watch Holmes on Homes?
He always has some guys spraying a foam insulation and well as stuff that looks like those foam mattresses. I think Canadians know about the cold.
yes wish I can get hold of that spray foam :)