You’re absolutely correct. The R-value of insulation materials is a standardized measure of their thermal resistance, and it’s not dependent on any specific brand or type of insulation blanket or bracket. Architects and building designers are responsible for determining the appropriate insulation requirements for a building based on factors like climate, building codes, and energy efficiency goals. They would consider the insulation material, thickness, and other relevant factors during the design process to ensure the building meets the necessary thermal performance standards.
So if someone advises you that you can use a particular bracket with a particular spacer, seek validity and confirmation from their architect. Present your options. This is a reliable way to ensure that the proposed combination of insulation blanket and bracket is suitable for the specific building project. Architects are well-versed in building codes, regulations, and design considerations, so their input provides valuable assurance regarding the compatibility and effectiveness of the chosen materials and components.
Calculating the R-Value
To calculate the “R-value” of an insulation blanket, you need to consider the material and its thickness. The R-value is a measure of the insulation’s thermal resistance. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation properties.
First, determine the R-value per unit thickness for the material of the insulation blanket. This value is typically provided by the manufacturer or can be found in insulation material tables.
Then, multiply this R-value per unit thickness by the thickness of the insulation blanket in inches (or meters, depending on the unit of thickness you have) to get the overall R-value for the blanket.
For example, let’s say the R-value per inch of thickness for the insulation material is 3.5 (R/inch). If your insulation blanket is 6 inches thick, the calculation would be:
𝑅total=𝑅per inch×thicknessRtotal​=Rper inch​×thickness
𝑅total=3.5 (R/inch)×6 (inches)Rtotal​=3.5(R/inch)×6(inches)
𝑅total=21 RRtotal​=21R
So, the total R-value of the insulation blanket would be 21 R.
Remember, this is a simplified calculation. In reality, other factors such as density, moisture resistance, and installation quality can also affect the overall performance of the insulation.