The main reason we insulate is to protect ourselves against unwanted external influences. First of all, we want to try avoid obvious influences such as climatic conditions (heat – cold – moisture) and ambient noise (neighbours – traffic). But we also need to protect ourselves against other influences, such as fire for example.
practical: insulating a steel frame construction
In order to meet the applicable regulations and performance requirements, there are many “correct” structures available for the various building parts. Depending on the chosen brands/materials and desired performance, these type details can be adapted to the specific situation.
Some of the typical wall structures for which the thermal insulation value and acoustic and fire-resistant properties have been considered are presented below. The values stated are indicative. The values in practice depend on the products chosen and their correct placement on the construction site. More options for coverings, materials and type details can be found here.
| material | thickness layer (mm) | lambda (W/mK) |
| Thermal insulation (PUR) | 100 | 0.023 |
| OSB/3 | 18 | 0.170 |
| beSteel frames + acoustic insulation (glass wool) | 89 | 0.454(1) |
| (damp protection) | ||
| OSB/3 | 12 | 0.170 |
| plasterboard | 12.5 | 0.240 |
(1) Since this building layer is heterogeneous, this value is an approximation based on weighted heat resistances. The actual thermal conductivity coefficient (lambda) depends on the precise frame/insulation ratio. It can be calculated with numerical calculations looking at the two- or three-dimensional heat flows.
How this wall behaves physically, and more specifically with regard to the development of vapour pressure, is explained in the internal condensation article.
| material | thickness layer (mm) | lambda (W/mK) |
| façade plaster | 5 | 0.700 |
| reinforcement layer and underlayer | 10 | 0.930 |
| Thermal insulation (PUR) | 120 | 0.026 |
| OSB/3 | 18 | 0.170 |
| beSteel frames + acoustic insulation (glass wool) | 89 | 0.454(1) |
| (damp protection) | ||
| OSB/3 | 12 | 0.170 |
| plasterboard | 12.5 | 0.240 |
(1) Since this building layer is heterogeneous, this value is an approximation based on weighted heat resistances. The actual thermal conductivity coefficient (lambda) depends on the precise frame/insulation ratio. It can be calculated with numerical calculations looking at the two- or three-dimensional heat flows.
How this wall behaves physically, and more specifically with regard to the development of vapour pressure, is explained in the internal condensation article.