U.S. patent application number 15/293268 was filed with the patent office on 2017-04-13 for building insulations, building insulation systems and related methods.
The applicant listed for this patent is Ronald White. Invention is credited to Ronald White.
Application Number | 20170101776 15/293268 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58499696 |
Filed Date | 2017-04-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170101776 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
White; Ronald |
April 13, 2017 |
BUILDING INSULATIONS, BUILDING INSULATION SYSTEMS AND RELATED
METHODS
Abstract
Building insulations, building insulations systems, and related
methods are provided. A building insulation can include an
insulation body having a bottom surface and a top surface. The
insulation body can be configured to reduce conduction of heat
through the insulation body. The building insulation can include a
facing secured to the bottom surface of the insulation body.
Further, the building insulation can include a plurality of
reinforcing straps secured between the facing and the bottom
surface of the insulation body. The reinforcing straps is spaced
apart from one another and provide reinforcing strength for
attachment of the building insulation to a building.
Inventors: |
White; Ronald; (GREENVILLE,
SC) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
White; Ronald |
GREENVILLE |
SC |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
58499696 |
Appl. No.: |
15/293268 |
Filed: |
October 13, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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62240577 |
Oct 13, 2015 |
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62240778 |
Oct 13, 2015 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04D 13/1637 20130101;
E04B 2001/7691 20130101; E04B 1/80 20130101 |
International
Class: |
E04B 7/00 20060101
E04B007/00; E04B 1/66 20060101 E04B001/66; E04B 1/78 20060101
E04B001/78; E04B 1/76 20060101 E04B001/76; E04B 1/68 20060101
E04B001/68 |
Claims
1. A building insulation comprising: an insulation body comprising
a bottom surface and a top surface, the insulation body configured
to reduce conduction of heat through the insulation body and having
a length and a width with the length being longer than the width; a
facing secured to the bottom surface of the insulation body; and a
plurality of reinforcing straps secured between the facing and the
bottom surface of the insulation body, the reinforcing straps being
spaced apart from one another and providing reinforcing strength
for attachment of the building insulation to a building.
2. (canceled)
3. The building insulation according to claim 1, wherein the facing
is vapor barrier and is secured to the bottom surface of the
insulation body with a binder.
4. The building insulation according to claim 1, further comprising
a radiant barrier secured to the top surface of the insulation
body, the radiant barrier configured to reflect radiant heat.
5. The building insulation according to claim 4, wherein the
radiant barrier comprises at least one of a metal foil or a
metallized polyester that covers the top surface of the insulation
body.
6. (canceled)
7. The building insulation according to claim 1, wherein the facing
extends beyond a sidewall of the insulation body along the length
of the insulation body to create a facing flange.
8. The building insulation according to claim 1, wherein the
reinforcing straps are configured to receive one or more fasteners
that secures the building insulation to a a roof support of a
building, the reinforcing straps being configured to support the
weight of the building insulation against the one or more
fasteners.
9. The building insulation according to claim 1, wherein the
reinforcing straps comprises strips of fabric.
10. (canceled)
11. The building insulation according to claim 1, wherein the
reinforcing straps extend in a length direction along at least a
portion of the length of the insulation body.
12. (canceled)
13. A building insulation system that forms a substantially
continuous insulation on a roof supports of a building, the
building insulation system comprising: a plurality of blankets of
building insulation, each blanket of insulation comprising: an
insulation body comprising a bottom surface and a top surface, the
insulation body configured to reduce conduction of heat through the
insulation body and having a length and a width with the length
being longer than the width; a facing secured to the bottom surface
of the insulation body; and a plurality of reinforcing straps
secured between the bottom surface of the insulation body and the
facing, the reinforcing straps being spaced apart from one another
and providing reinforcing strength for attachment of the building
insulation to a building; and a plurality of fasteners for securing
the plurality of blankets of building insulation to a roof support
of the building by inserting the fasteners into one or more of the
reinforcing straps so that the plurality of blankets of building
insulation are aligned adjacent to one another without a roof
support disposed therebetween.
14. (canceled)
15. The building insulation system according to claim 13, wherein
the facing is vapor barrier and is secured to the bottom surface of
the insulation body of each blanket of insulation with a
binder.
16. The building insulation system according to claim 13, further
comprising tape for sealing seams between adjacent installed
blankets of building insulation.
17. The building insulation system according to claim 16, wherein
the facing of each blanket of building insulation extends beyond a
sidewall of the insulation body along the length of the insulation
body to create a facing flange, the facing flange configured to
overlap an adjacent facing of a blanket of building insulation upon
installation.
18. The building insulation system according to claim 13, further
comprising a radiant barrier secured to the top surface of the
insulation body of each blanket of insulation, the radiant barrier
configured to reflect radiant heat.
19. (canceled)
20. (canceled)
21. The building insulation system according to claim 13, wherein
the reinforcing straps of each blanket of insulation are configured
to support the weight of the building insulation against the one or
more fasteners.
22. The building insulation system according to claim 13, wherein
the reinforcing straps of each blanket of insulation comprises
strips of fabric.
23. (canceled)
24. (canceled)
25. The building insulation system according to claim 1, wherein
the plurality of fasteners comprise at least one of screws or weld
pins.
26. A method of installing building insulation within a building,
the method comprising: providing a plurality of blankets of
building insulation, each blanket of insulation comprising: an
insulation body comprising a bottom surface and a top surface, the
insulation body configured to reduce conduction of heat through the
insulation body and having a length and a width with the length
being longer than the width; a facing secured to the bottom surface
of the insulation body; and a plurality of reinforcing straps
secured between the bottom surface and the insulation body, the
reinforcing straps being spaced apart from one another and
providing reinforcing strength for attachment of the building
insulation to a building; and providing a plurality of fasteners
for securing the plurality of blankets of building insulation to a
roof support of the building; placing a first blanket of insulation
from the plurality of blankets of insulation against the roof
support of the building; securing the first blanket of insulation
from the plurality of blankets of insulation to the roof support of
the building by inserting fasteners into one or more of the
plurality of the reinforcing straps and securing the fasteners to
the roof support.
27. The method according to claim 26, further comprising: placing a
second blanket of insulation from the plurality of blankets of
insulation adjacent the first blanket of insulation and against the
roof support of the building; securing the second blanket of
insulation from the plurality of blankets of insulation to the roof
support of the building by inserting fasteners into one or more of
the plurality of the reinforcing straps and securing the fasteners
to the roof support.
28. The method according to claim 27, wherein the facing on each
blanket of insulation extends beyond a sidewall of the insulation
body along the length of the insulation body to form a facing
flange and further comprising overlapping the facing flange of the
first blanket of insulation over the facing the adjacent second
blanket of insulation to form a sealing seam.
29. The method according to claim 27, further comprising placing
tape over the seam formed between the first blanket of insulation
and the second blanket of insulation.
Description
RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The presently disclosed subject matter claims the benefit of
U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/240,577, filed Oct.
13, 2015, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety, and the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 62/240,778, filed Oct. 13, 2015, the
disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present subject matter relates to building insulations,
building insulations systems, and related methods. Broadly, the
present subject matter relates to insulation products and systems
that can be attached to a roof support, such as an eave strut of a
building and then to the underside of each purlin of the building.
In particular, the present subject matter relates to thermal
insulations, thermal insulation systems, and methods of
installation that provide a continuous thermal barrier for the
inside of the building and provide built-in weight reinforcements
to facilitate the support of the thermal insulation when hung from
a roof support of a building.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Steel building insulation materials are designed to improve
the insulation of a building while reducing thermal energy or heat
loss. The goal of installing insulation of reducing thermal energy
or heat loss can be measured based on R-values. R-values can
measure the capacity of an insulating material to resist heat flow
with a higher R-value indicating greater insulating power.
Different states can have different suggested or required R-values
for insulation that is to be installed in residential and
commercial buildings.
[0004] Fiberglass (or fiber glass) insulation body--which consists
of extremely fine glass fibers--is one of the most ubiquitous
insulation materials. It's commonly used in different types of
insulation, including blankets of insulation (batts and rolls),
loose-fill insulation and can also be available as rigid boards and
duct insulation.
[0005] Fiberglass loose-fill insulation is made from molten glass
that is spun or blown into fibers; Most manufacturers use 20% to
30% recycled glass content. Loose-fill insulation must be applied
using an insulation-blowing machine in either open-blow
applications (such as attic spaces) or closed-cavity applications
(such as those found inside walls or covered attic floors). Batts
of fiberglass can be formed by glass being spun or blown into
fibers into a fleecy mass with binders added to for the batts. A
thermal facing can be added to the insulating fiberglass material
batts to form the insulation. Facing materials that are applied to
the insulating fiberglass batts can serve as a protective cover
over the fiberglass insulation. Facing materials can offer a clean
finished look to any metal building environment.
[0006] Facings are fastened to insulation materials during the
manufacturing process. A facing can protect the insulation's
surface, can hold the insulation together, and can facilitate
fastening to building components. Some types of facing can also act
as an air barrier, and/or vapor barrier. The climate in which the
building resides can help in the determination of what type of
facing should be use.
[0007] Most commonly used thermal insulation only protect against
one aspect of heat transfer--conduction. Expensive foam products
can protect against conduction and convection, but there are no
known products that specifically protect against all three methods
of thermal heat transfer.
[0008] When using a batt of fiberglass or a blanket of fiberglass
or similar material on which a; facing is attached, the insulation
is not very strong and can have a lower tear strength. Such
insulation is usually laid down, on top of a structure. Such
insulation is not conducive to hanging under a roof of a building,
such as a metal building. Such insulation materials can tear and
sag too easily. Additionally, the method of installing the
insulation between roof supports instead of over them can create
insulation systems that provide uneven and inconsistent thermal
insulative protection. Therefore, a need exists for improve
insulation, insulation systems, and method of installing such
insulation.
SUMMARY
[0009] The present subject matter provides relates to building
insulations, building insulations systems, and related methods.
More particularly, the present subject matter relates to thermal
insulations, thermal insulation systems, and methods of
installation that provide a continuous thermal barrier for the
inside of the building and provide built-in weight reinforcements
to facilitate the support of the thermal insulation when hung from
a roof structure, such as a roof supports of a building. Methods
related to the installation of such insulations and systems
disclosed herein are also provided.
[0010] In some embodiments, the present subject matter includes an
insulation product that can be covered with a tough, reinforced
facing with evenly spaced straps that run between the insulation
and the reinforced facing. The present subject matter is installed
in such a manner as to support the weight of the thermal insulation
installed. In some embodiments, a thermal insulation and system is
disclosed that also provides a thermal barrier against three
different aspects of heat transfer: conduction, convection and
radiation.
[0011] Thus, it is an object of the presently disclosed subject
matter to provide building insulations and building insulations
systems as well as methods related thereto. While one or more
objects of the presently disclosed subject matter having been
stated hereinabove, and which is achieved in whole or in part by
the presently disclosed subject matter, other objects will become
evident as the description proceeds when taken in connection with
the accompanying drawings as best described hereinbelow.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] A full and enabling disclosure of the present subject matter
including the best mode thereof to one of ordinary skill in the art
is set forth more particularly in the remainder of the
specification, including reference to the accompanying figures, in
which:
[0013] FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a portion of an
embodiment of a blanket of insulation according to the present
subject matter;
[0014] FIG. 1B illustrates a perspective view of a portion of an
embodiment of a insulation system partially installed comprising
blankets of insulation according to FIG. 1A and in accordance with
the present subject matter;
[0015] FIG. 1C illustrates a perspective view of a portion of an
embodiment of a blanket of insulation according to FIG. 1;
[0016] FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of a portion of
another embodiment of a blanket of insulation according to the
present subject matter;
[0017] FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective view of a portion of an
embodiment of a insulation system partially installed comprising
blankets of insulation according to FIG. 2A according to the
present subject matter;
[0018] FIG. 3A illustrates a partial cross-sectional perspective
view of a portion of a building with a portion of an embodiment of
a insulation system showing a vertical cross-section of a blanket
of insulation installed in the building according to the present
subject matter; and
[0019] FIG. 3B illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of a
portion of a blanket of insulation of an insulation system
installed in a building according to the present subject
matter.
[0020] Repeat use of reference characters in the present
specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or
analogous features or elements of the present subject matter.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] Reference now will be made to the embodiments of the present
subject matter, one or more examples of which are set forth below.
Each example is provided by way of an explanation of the present
subject matter, not as a limitation. In fact, it will be apparent
to those skilled in the art that various modifications and
variations can be made in the present subject matter without
departing from the scope or spirit of the present subject matter.
For instance, features illustrated or described as one embodiment
can be used on another embodiment to yield still a further
embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present subject matter
cover such modifications and variations as come within the scope of
the appended claims and their equivalents. It is to be understood
by one of ordinary skill in the art that the present discussion is
a description of exemplary embodiments only, and is not intended as
limiting the broader aspects of the present subject matter, which
broader aspects are embodied in exemplary constructions.
[0022] Although the terms first, second, right, left, front, rear,
top, bottom, etc. may be used herein to describe various features,
elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these
features, elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections
should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to
distinguish one feature, element, component, region, layer or
section from another feature, element, component, region, layer or
section. Thus, a first feature, element, component, region, layer
or section discussed below could be termed a second feature,
element, component, region, layer or section without departing from
the teachings of the disclosure herein.
[0023] Similarly, when a layer or coating is being described in the
present disclosure as "on" or "over" another layer or substrate, it
is to be understood that the layers can either be directly
contacting each other or have another layer or feature between the
layers, unless expressly stated to the contrary. Thus, these terms
are simply describing the relative position of the layers to each
other and do not necessarily mean "on top of" since the relative
position above or below depends upon the orientation of the device
to the viewer.
[0024] Embodiments of the subject matter of the disclosure are
described herein with reference to schematic illustrations of
embodiments that may be idealized. As such, variations from the
shapes and/or positions of features, elements or components within
the illustrations as a result of, for example but not limited to,
user preferences, manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances are
expected. Shapes, sizes and/or positions of features, elements or
components illustrated in the figures may also be magnified,
minimized, exaggerated, shifted or simplified to facilitate
explanation of the subject matter disclosed herein. Thus, the
features, elements or components illustrated in the figures are
schematic in nature and their shapes and/or positions are not
intended to illustrate the precise configuration of the subject
matter and are not intended to limit the scope of the subject
matter disclosed herein.
[0025] It is to be understood that the ranges and limits mentioned
herein include all ranges located within the prescribed limits
(i.e., subranges). For instance, a range from about 100 to about
200 also includes ranges from 110 to 150, 170 to 190, 153 to 162,
and 145.3 to 149.6. Further, a limit of up to about 7 also includes
a limit of up to about 5, up to 3, and up to about 4.5, as well as
ranges within the limit, such as from about 1 to about 5, and from
about 3.2 to about 6.5.
[0026] As used herein, the term "polymer" generally includes, but
is not limited to, homopolymers; copolymers, such as, for example,
block, graft, random and alternating copolymers; and terpolymers;
and blends and modifications thereof.
[0027] As used herein, the term "blanket of insulation" generally
includes, but is not limited to, an insulation body that comprises
insulation material that can have a facing secured thereto. The
insulative body, for example, can include in some embodiments a
batt of insulative material that can have a length and a width.
[0028] As disclosed herein, a building insulation is provided that
comprises an insulation body that has a bottom surface and a top
surface and a length and a width with the length being longer than
the width. When the building insulation is installed, the top
surface can face inward toward the building or structure. For
example, the top surface can face the roof structure and roof
supports, while the bottom surface can face outward away from the
roof structure and roof supports. The insulation body can be, for
example, a batt, or batting, of an insulative material, such as
fiberglass, mineral wool or cellulosic insulative material. The
insulation body is configured to reduce conduction of heat through
the insulation body. The insulation body is often measured by its
R-value which measures the capacity of an insulating material to
resist heat flow with a higher the R-value indicating greater
insulating power.
[0029] The building insulation also comprises a facing secured to
the bottom surface of the insulation body. The facing can be a
vapor retardant that provides a vapor barrier and can provide a
more finished appearance on the bottom of the insulation body so
that the facing can, in some instances, comprise an interior
surface of the building in which the building insulation is
installed. The facing can extend beyond a sidewall of the
insulation body along the length of the insulation body to create a
facing flange. The facing flange can be used to overlap the facing
of an adjacent second blanket of insulation to form a sealing
seam.
[0030] The building insulation can further comprise a plurality of
reinforcing straps secured in between the facing and the bottom
surface of the insulation body. The reinforcing straps can be
spaced apart from one another and can provide reinforcing strength
for attachment of the building insulation to a building. The
reinforcing straps are configured to receive one or more fasteners
that secure the building insulation to a structure, or building,
and support the weight of the building, insulation against the one
or more fasteners. In some embodiments, the building insulation can
also comprise a radiant barrier secured to the top surface of the
insulation body so that the radiant barrier to reflect heat. These
and other features of the present subject matter are described in
more detail below.
[0031] Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1C, a building insulation,
generally designated 10, is provided that comprises an insulation
body 12, reinforced facing 14, and a plurality of reinforcing
straps 16. In particular, the building insulation 10 can comprise
the insulation body 12 comprising a bottom surface 12A and a top
surface 12B. The insulation body 12 comprises a material that
reduces conduction of heat through the insulation body. For
example, in some embodiments, the insulation body 12 can comprise
fiberglass, mineral wool or cellulosic insulative material. In some
embodiments, the insulation body 12 can be a batt or batting that
can have a lower shear tear strength that would likely limit the
ability of the insulative body 12 alone to be hung from roof
supports in a building for long-term insulating purposes. The
insulation body 12 can have a length L and a width W with the
length L being longer than the width W as shown in FIG. 1C. The
insulation body 12 can have a height H as shown in FIG. 1C that can
be different for different application of the insulation 10 and
based different desired or required R-values to be obtained. In
some embodiments, the insulation body 12 can be sized to virtually
any length required with the width of insulation body 12 being
about five feet. In some embodiments, the width of insulation body
12 can be about three feet, about four feet, about six feet, or
about seven feet. Regarding the length, the insulation body 12 can
have a length L that allows the insulation body 12 to extend along
the length of the building.
[0032] The facing 14 can be secured to the bottom surface 12A of
the insulation body 12. The facing 14 can be applied to the
insulation body 12 to serve as a vapor retarder, or vapor barrier,
as well as a protected cover over the insulation body 12. The
facing 14 can provide a vapor barrier and a clean finished look.
For example, the facing 14 can offer a clean finished look in any
metal building environment. The facing 14 can comprise a variety of
materials. In some embodiments, the facing can be, for example,
kraft paper, white vinyl sheeting, or a metallic foil. In some
embodiments, the facing 14 can comprise a polypropylene sheet, such
as a nonwoven fabric, a scrim fabric, or a film, with a natural
kraft paper backing on the back side. In some embodiments, the
facing 14 can be a polymer coated scrim. In some embodiments, the
facing 14 can comprise a polypropylene insulation facing, with a
metallized polyester (foil like) backing on back side that can
generally be used in a typical metal building that does not require
heavy facing. Such a facing 14 can be different colors, including
white or black. In some embodiments, the facing can comprise
polypropylene insulation facing with a woven fiberglass/polyester
blend fabric backing on a back side of the facing. In some
embodiments, the facing 14 can generally be made of reinforced
polypropylene or vinyl insulation facing. However, other types of
polymers and fabric or film constructions can be used. As stated
above, the facing 14 may be made of other sufficiently strong,
durable, pliable materials that can be sealed to produce a tight
air barrier. The facing 14 can be secured to the bottom surface 12A
of the insulation body 12 with a binder. In fact, a binder can be
used to secure the reinforcing straps 16 between the facing 14 and
the insulation body 12 and secure the facing 14 to the insulation
body 12.
[0033] As stated, the plurality of reinforcing straps 16 can be
secured between the bottom surface 12A of the insulation body and
the facing 14. The straps 16 can be flexible, strong and durable
material, for example, a durable fabric. The reinforcing straps 16
can be spaced apart from one another and can provide reinforcing
strength for attachment of the building insulation 10 to a building
B (see FIG. 3A). In some embodiments, the straps 16 can be spaced
between about six (6) inches apart and about twenty-four (24)
inches apart. In some embodiments, the straps 16 can be spaced
approximately twelve (12) inches apart and extend the length of the
insulation body 12. In some embodiments, the reinforcing straps 16
can extend in a length direction along at least a portion of the
length of the insulation body 12. The number of reinforcing straps
16 and the distance D.sub.S (see FIG. 1B) therebetween can be a
factor of the tear strength of the reinforcing straps 16 and/or the
distance between the roof supports, such as the distance between
purlins that support roof decking and to which the insulation 10
can be attached. For example, if the distance between the purlins
is longer, more straps 16 may be in the insulation 10 with a
shorter distance D.sub.S between the straps 16. If the distance
between the purlins is shorter, then less straps 16 may be present
and the distance D.sub.S between the straps 16 may be longer. In
some embodiments, the outer two straps 16A, 16B (see FIG. 1A) can
be inset about two (2) from the outer side edges of the insulation
body 12.
[0034] The reinforcing straps 16 can comprise different materials.
For example, the reinforcing straps 16 can comprise strips of
fabric. In some embodiments, the strips of fabric can comprise at
least one of nonwoven material, woven material, braided material,
or a knit material. Such strips of fabric are more flexible than an
extruded or molded strip, plastic flat rod or plate. For example,
the reinforcing straps 16 can comprise strips of a woven
polypropylene fabric, also referred to a webbing, in some
embodiments. In some embodiments, the straps 16 can comprise a
polyester, a polyethylene, a nylon, an aramid, and/or other durable
thermoplastic polymer fibers or yarns in a woven, knitted, or
braided fabric, or in a fabric formed by a nonwoven process.
Additionally, the straps 16 can comprise natural fibers or yarns or
a combination of natural and synthetic fibers and/or yarns. In some
embodiments, the straps 16 can comprise a flexible laminate
substrate. For instance, the straps 16 can be formed from strips of
high strength facing material, such as a polymer coated scrim with
a high tear strength. The use of such strips of high strength
facing material can allow a different type of facing material to be
used as facing 14 that provides different properties from the
facing material used in the facing material strips used for the
straps.
[0035] The straps 16 can have a higher tear strength than the
facing 14 and are sturdy and durable. The tear strength of the
reinforcing straps 16 can also be stronger than the insulation body
12. The material used for the reinforcing strap 16 can be selected
based on the weight of the insulation 10 that the reinforcing strap
16 is expected to support when a blanket of the insulation 10 when
pulled tight and installed. The forces generated upon the
reinforcing strap 16 by the tautness of the blanket of insulation
10 once the fasteners are secured therein can also be taken into
consideration. The number of reinforcing straps 16 per unit area of
the insulation 10 can also be taken into consideration when
selecting the material.
[0036] The straps 16 can have a width W.sub.S of between about one
(1) inch and about four (4) inches. The straps 16 can have a width
W.sub.S of between about one, (1) inch and about three (3) inches.
For example, the straps 16 can have a width W.sub.S of about two
(2) inches.
[0037] Thus, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, the insulation body 12 can be
attached on one side to the facing 14 using a binder 20. The
reinforcing straps 16 can be secured between the insulation body 12
and the facing 14 with the binder as well. The facing 14 can have a
width W.sub.F that is wider than the width W of the insulation body
12 as measured along the insulation body 12 as shown in FIG. 1C.
Thereby, in some embodiments as shown, the facing 14 can extend
beyond a sidewall 12C of the insulation body 12 along the length of
the insulation body 12 to create a facing flange 18. In some
embodiments, the facing 14 can extend between about one (1) inch
and about four (4) inches beyond the width W of the insulation body
12 on one side to create the flange 18. For example, in some
embodiments, the facing 14 can extend approximately two (2) inches
beyond the width W of the insulation body 12 on one side to create
the flange 18. Such a flange 18 extends the length of a blanket of
the insulation 10. As stated above, in some embodiments, the
reinforcing straps 16 can be inset approximately two (2) inches
from the side edges of insulation body 12 and can be spaced
approximately twelve (12) inches apart from one another while
extending the length L of the insulation 10. In the embodiment
shown, the insulation body 12 and the facing 14 can be sized to
virtually any length required with the width of insulation body 12
being about five (5) feet and the width of the facing 14 being
approximately two (2) inches wider than the insulation body 12.
[0038] FIG. 1B illustrates the sealing of seams between eave strut
22 and insulation 10.sub.2A and between adjacent lengths of
insulation 10.sub.2A and insulation 10.sub.28. There is facing
flange 18.sub.2A of insulation 10.sub.2A and seam 34 between eave
strut 22 and insulation 10.sub.2A. The facing 14.sub.2A extends
beyond a sidewall 12C.sub.2A of the insulation body 12.sub.2A along
the length of the insulation body 12.sub.2A to form the facing
flange 18.sub.2A for forming a sealed seam along the adjacent
structure of an installed insulation 10.sub.2B. The facing flange
18.sub.2A overlaps the bottom of the adjacent piece of thermal
insulation 10.sub.28 and can be secured to produce a tight air seal
below the insulation bodies 12.sub.2A and 12.sub.2B of blankets of
insulation 10.sub.2A and 10.sub.2B. For example, the facing flange
18.sub.2A may be secured to the facing 14.sub.2B of the insulation
10.sub.2B by tape, adhesive, or other binder. As shown, tape 23 can
be used to secure the facing flange 18.sub.2A to the facing
14.sub.2B of the insulation 10.sub.2B. Furthermore, the seams 34
where insulation 10.sub.2A meets the eave strut 22 can be secured
to produce a tight air seal, for example, by tape 23.
[0039] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, a similar building insulation
blanket, generally designated 50 is provided that also provides
protection against radiant heat. As with the embodiments described
above, the building insulation 50 can comprise an insulation body
12 comprising a bottom surface 12A and a top surface 12B. The
insulation body 12 can be configured to reduce conduction of heat
through the insulation body. As above, the insulation body 12 can
have a length and a width with the length being longer than the
width. The building insulation 50 can comprise a facing 14 secured
to the bottom surface 12A of the insulation body 12 that can
provide a level of convective thermal protection. The building
insulation 50 can further comprise a plurality of reinforcing
straps 16 secured between the facing 14 and the bottom surface 12A
of the insulation body 12, such that the reinforcing straps 16 are
spaced apart from one another and provide reinforcing strength for
attachment of the building insulation 50 to a building.
Additionally, the building insulation 50 can comprise a radiant
barrier 52 secured to the top surface 12B of the insulation body 12
of each blanket of insulation 50. The radiant barrier 52 can
provide a level of thermal protection against radiant heat by
having an outer surface that can reflect radiant heat. In some
embodiments, the radiant barrier can be vapor permeable. In some
embodiments, the radiant barrier can be a vapor barrier.
[0040] The radiant barrier 52 can comprise a variety of materials
as long as it has the ability to reflect radiant heat away from the
insulation body 12. In some embodiments, the radiant barrier 52 can
comprise at least one of a metal foil or a metallized polyester
that covers the top surface 12A of the insulation body 12. Gaps
between the radiant barrier 52 and roof structure 40, such as roof
decking, under which the building insulation 50 is installed can
allow air to circulate above the radiant barrier 52 to remove the
reflected heat. The area above the insulation 50 can be vented from
the outside allowing a natural convection current that vents the
underside of the roof above the insulation 50.
[0041] As shown in the embodiment of the building insulation 50 in
FIG. 2A, the facing 14 can extend beyond a sidewall 12C of the
insulation body 12 along the length of the insulation body 12 to
form a facing flange 18. Additionally, in some embodiments as
shown, the radiant barrier 52 can extend beyond the sidewall 12C of
the insulation body 12 along the length of the insulation body 12
to form a radiant barrier flange 54 for forming a sealed seam along
an adjacent structure, such as a eave strut, a purlin, or an
adjacent blanket of the insulation 50. In some embodiments,
however, a radiant flange 54 may not be present so that a
continuous air tight barrier can be formed on the facing side of
the insulation 50 by the facing 14, while no such continuous air or
vapor barrier is formed on the top surface above the insulation
body 12.
[0042] Thus, the insulation 50 can be formed by the insulation body
12 being laminated on the underside, or bottom surface, by a
durable insulation scrim facing 14 with a facing flange 18
extending beyond the width of the insulation body 12. The top side,
or top surface, of the insulation body 12 can be covered or coated
with a radiant barrier 52 with a radiant barrier flange 20
extending beyond the width of the insulation body 12 on the same
side as facing flange 18.
[0043] FIG. 2B illustrates the sealing of seams between eave strut
22 and insulation 50.sub.1A and between adjacent lengths of
insulation 50.sub.1A and insulation 50.sub.1B. The insulation
50.sub.1A can comprise a radiant barrier 52.sub.1A secured to a top
surface of an insulation body 12.sub.1A and insulation 50.sub.1B
can comprise a radiant barrier 52.sub.1B secured to a top surface
of an insulation body 12.sub.1B. As described above, insulation
50.sub.1A can comprise a facing 14.sub.1A and reinforcing straps
16.sub.1A secured to a bottom surface of an insulation body
12.sub.1A and insulation 50.sub.1B can comprise a facing 14.sub.1B
and reinforcing straps 16.sub.1B secured to a bottom surface of an
insulation body 12.sub.1B. There is a radiant barrier flange
54.sub.1A of insulation 50.sub.1A and scrim facing flange 18.sub.1A
of insulation 50.sub.1A. Additionally, there is a seam 34 between
eave strut 22 and insulation 50.sub.1A. The facing 14.sub.1A
extends beyond a sidewall 12C.sub.1A of the insulation body
12.sub.1A along the length of the insulation body 12.sub.1A to form
the facing flange 18.sub.1A and the radiant barrier 52.sub.1A
extends beyond the sidewall 12C.sub.1A of the insulation body
12.sub.1A along the length of the insulation body 12.sub.1A to form
the radiant barrier flange 54.sub.1A for forming a sealed seam
along the adjacent structure of an installed insulation 50.sub.1B.
The radiant barrier flange 54.sub.1A overlaps the top of the
adjacent radiant barrier 52.sub.1B of the insulation 50.sub.1B. In
some embodiments, the radiant barrier flange 54.sub.1A is secured
to the radiant barrier 52.sub.1B of insulation 50.sub.1B to produce
a tight air seal above the blankets of insulation 50.sub.1A, and
50.sub.1B. For example, the radiant barrier flange 54.sub.1A may be
secured by tape, adhesive, or other binder. Similarly, the facing
flange 18.sub.1A overlaps the facing 14.sub.1B of the adjacent
piece of thermal insulation 50.sub.1B and can be secured to produce
a tight air seal below the blankets of insulation 50.sub.1A, and
50.sub.1B. For example, the facing flange 18.sub.1A may be secured
by tape, adhesive, or other binder. As shown, tape 23 can be used
to secure the facing flange 18.sub.1A to the facing 14.sub.1B of
the insulation 50.sub.1B. Furthermore, the seams 34 where
insulation 10 meet the eave strut 22 can be secured to produce a
tight air seal, for example, by tape 23.
[0044] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, an insulation system,
generally designated 100, employing the building insulation 10 is
provided. The building insulation system 100 can comprise a
plurality of blankets of building insulation 10. Each blanket of
insulation 10 can comprise an insulation body 12 as described above
that can have a bottom surface and a top surface with the
insulation body 12 configured to reduce conduction of heat through
the insulation body 12. Each blanket of insulation 10 can also
comprise a facing 14 secured to the bottom surface 12A of the
insulation body 12 and a plurality of reinforcing straps 16 secured
between the bottom surface of the insulation body 12 and facing 14.
As described above, the reinforcing straps 16 can be spaced apart
from one another and providing reinforcing strength for attachment
of the building insulation 10 to a building. B. The building
insulation system 100 can also comprise a plurality of fasteners 26
for securing the plurality of blankets of building insulation 10 to
the building B to insulate the building B. The fasteners 26 can be
inserted into the facing 14, one or more of the reinforcing straps
16, and the insulation body 12 and then secured to a roof support,
such as an eave strut 22 and/or an underside of a purlin 24 using
the fastener 26. The reinforcing straps 16 of each blanket of
insulation 10 are configured to support the weight of the building
insulation 10 against the one or more fasteners 26 as described
above. The fasteners 26 can comprise a variety of fastener, such as
spikes, screws, spikes and ferrels, screws and ferrels, weld pins
or the like depending upon which type of material used to construct
the roof supports. When ferrels are used, they can keep the spikes
and screws from being inserted too far in the roof support to
prevent the compressing of the insulation 10. Additionally, the
facing 14 can secured to eave strut 22 through strap 16 using a
fastener, such as a self-taping screw and a washer. Similarly, weld
pins can be spot welded to the roof support after insertion such
that the length of the pin prevents a permanent compression of the
insulation.
[0045] In some embodiments, air gaps 33 can be maintained above the
insulation 10 between the insulation 10 and the roof decking 40 to
allow airflow above the insulation 10. This configuration can be
advantageous for embodiments of insulation such as insulation 50
described above that comprises a radiant barrier to aid in removing
the reflected radiant heat with the flow of air.
[0046] The insulation 10 can be pulled tight and anchored to the
underside of purlin 24 with a fastener, 26, such a cupped weld pin
inserted into strap 16. Flange 18 overlaps the edge of the adjacent
piece of insulation 10 and can be taped securely to produce a tight
air barrier. This process is repeated for the entire length of
insulation 10 and for each blanket of insulation 10.
[0047] The building insulation system can further comprise tape 23
(see FIGS. 1B and 2B) for sealing seams between adjacent installed
blankets of building insulation. The seam 28 between insulation 10
and wall insulation 36 can be sealed with a tape 23 and the seam 34
between insulation 10 and the main building frame 30 can also be
sealed with a tape 23 to prevent air leakage. Thereby, the
insulation system 100 can create an air tight barrier to aid in the
creation of additional thermal barrier that aids against thermal
convection.
[0048] In some embodiments, the facing 14 of each blanket of
building insulation can extend beyond a sidewall 12C of the
insulation body 12 along the length L of the insulation body 12 to
create a facing flange 18. The facing flange 18 can be configured
to overlap an adjacent facing of a blanket of building insulation
upon installation as described above with reference to FIG. 1A.
[0049] By securing the insulation system 100 to the underside of
the roof supports, the insulation system is continuous such that
more consistent levels of R-values across the whole system can be
obtained.
[0050] In some embodiments (not shown), the reinforcing straps can
be configured to support the weight of the building insulation and
the weight of additional loose insulation material positioned above
the top surface of insulation body against the one or more
fasteners. In such embodiments, the insulation body can have
sealable slits therethrough through which additional loose
insulation material can be transported to a location above the top
surface of the insulation body. Once the full length of the blanket
of insulation has been installed a small slit can be made in the
center of insulation between each purlin to allow the installation
of the loose fill insulation. Loose fill insulation can be
installed below roof decking through the small slits and can be
supported by insulation and the straps. Loose fill insulation can
completely fill the cavity above insulation between purlins. Upon
completion of the installation of loose fill insulation, small
slits can be taped closed.
[0051] The insulation products and systems disclosed herein can be
installed from the underside of the roof without requiring access
from above the roof supports. The insulation product of the present
subject matter can be sealed, providing continuous insulation for
the interior for the building. Further, the insulation product of
the present subject matter provides a means to achieve higher
resistance to thermal heat transfer than what is commonly achieved
at the present time, meeting current metal building energy
codes.
[0052] Thus, as described above, a method of installing building
insulation within a building is provided that comprises the step of
providing a plurality of blankets of building insulation. Each
blanket of insulation can comprise an insulation body having a
bottom surface and a top surface and a facing secured to the bottom
surface of the insulation body. Each blanket of insulation can also
comprise a plurality of reinforcing straps secured between the
bottom surface of the insulation body and the facing. The
reinforcing straps can be spaced apart from one another and can
provide reinforcing strength for attachment of the building
insulation to a building. The method also comprises providing a
plurality of fasteners for securing the plurality of blankets of
building insulation to a roof support to insulate the building. A
first blanket of insulation from the plurality of blankets of
insulation can be placed against a roof support of the building.
The first blanket of insulation from the plurality of blankets of
insulation can then be secured to the roof support, such as an eave
strut or purlin of the building, by inserting the fasteners into
one or more of the plurality of the reinforcing straps and securing
the fasteners to the roof support.
[0053] A second blanket of insulation of the plurality of blankets
of insulation can be placed adjacent the first blanket of
insulation and against the roof support of the building. The second
blanket of insulation from the plurality of blankets of insulation
can be secured to the roof support of the building by inserting
fasteners into one or more of the plurality of the reinforcing
straps and securing the fasteners to the roof support. The facing
on each blanket of insulation can extend beyond a sidewall of the
insulation body along the length of the insulation body to form a
facing flange. The facing flange of the first blanket of insulation
can overlap the facing the adjacent second blanket of insulation to
form a sealing seam. Tape can be placed over the seam formed
between the first blanket of insulation and the second blanket of
insulation.
[0054] Installation must be performed from a stable platform or
aerial lift by trained workmen using the appropriate OSHA
(Occupational Safety and Health Administration) required fall
restraint system and personal protection equipment.
[0055] Some advantages of the presently disclosed subject matter
include a packaged insulation that provides thermal protection
against conduction, convection and radiation. Further, the
installation of the insulation of the present subject matter is
simple as compared to the typical installation methods for thermal
insulation. Additionally, the insulation of the present subject
matter can be adapted to many different roof types and
configurations with minor difficulty providing opportunity for
improved energy efficiency for all construction types.
[0056] These and other modifications and variations to the present
subject matter may be practiced by those of ordinary skill in the
art, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
subject matter, which is more particularly set forth herein above.
In addition, it should be understood the aspects of the various
embodiments may be interchanged both in whole or in part.
Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate
that the foregoing description is by way of example only, and is
not intended to limit the present subject matter. Reference signs
incorporated in the claims solely to ease their understanding, and
do not limit the scope of the claims.
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