Visual inspection is usually good enough for under roof insulation that is accessible, as in boiler rooms, pipe chases, and steam tunnels. If the insulation is intact, fits snugly, and remains dry, it is almost certainly doing its job. Damage that is serious enough to reduce the effectiveness of insulation is usually obvious. The only subtle case is where insulation may become wet from a leak in the equipment it surrounds. (more…)

Steam is a great heat transfer medium simply because it’s easy to move inside your system. Steam heating is known to have a very high heat retention capacity. The heat capacity of steam is much bigger compare than that of water. Steam systems are frequently working on very low pressure and generally below 220F. (more…)

You know where to insulate, but there’s still one more thing you need to know about—vapor barriers. Well-insulated attics, crawlspaces, storage areas, and other closed cavities need to be well ventilated to prevent excessive moisture build-up. (more…)

Insulation is what keeps the heat energy of a boiler system from leaking out of the system on its way to the end users. Inspect the condition of your insulation often enough to keep the insulation from becoming seriously deteriorated. This measure summarizes what insulation does, what to insulate, and how to insulate. It also gives you several methods of finding defective insulation, even if it is buried. (more…)

It is nearly impossible for a do-it-yourselfer to insulate a finished exterior wall without tearing off the wallboards. Competent professionals can do this work for you. However, there are some sharp, fly-by-night operators in this industry, and you should exercise extreme caution before you hire someone to blow insulation into your finished walls. (more…)

Builders, contractors, and homeowners alike are beginning to realize the profound advantages of incorporating vertical ICF (insulating concrete forms) systems into their homes. In fact, the technology has been ranked in PATH’s (Partnership for Advancing Technologies in Housing) TOP 10 technologies of 2007. (more…)

Extensive insulation repairs are usually done by contractors having the specific skills and equipment appropriate to the type of insulation being installed. Experience indicates that some insulation methods are much better than others, particularly for buried pipe.

Become familiar with the advantages and disadvantages of all the insulation methods before initiating the work. (more…)