Creating an Energy Efficient Home with Green Energy Insulation

Insulation is a key factor in a more comfortable home and one that consumes less energy. There are lots of options and it can be hard to know what is best for your home. Green Energy Insulation assists home owners, builders and developers to achieve superior thermal performance in domestic, commercial and industrial construction projects. Their key product is FOILBOARD insulation panel systems, an Australian manufactured, fire retardant expanded polystyrene core with pure aluminium foil directly laminated to both sides creating a superior insulant, thermal break and non-permeable moisture barrier.
FOILBOARD insulation:

• Uses zero ozone depleting substances (CFC & HCFC Free)
• Uses zero volatile organic compounds (VOC’s)
• Does not require the use of protective clothing
• Is formaldehyde free
• Contains no harmful carcinogens
• Contains no dangerous fibrous airborne particles

Green Energy Insulation became the State Distributor for FOILBOARD in 2017 however the product has been servicing the construction industry for over twenty years. Manager Carlo says that he has always been passionate about promoting products that are simple yet innovative. “For me the best products are those that solve real problems and deliver true value” he says. His mentor Jeff, has been a strong campaigner for improved thermal efficiency in the building industry. For past 12 years he has been guiding householders and builders towards energy efficient construction, and subsequent energy savings. “That’s a rewarding feeling so I’m inspired to carry on his work” explains Carlo.
We are a very disposable society these days and as a consequence we place a big load on landfill. Carlo believes that impulse purchases, largely driven by trends and fashion are to blame. “If it’s no longer trendy we simply toss it out and buy something new without really considering the impact on our environment” he says. “As a kid growing up, my mother never threw out any food. She saved empty glass jars for pickling vegetables and empty glass bottles that would be used to bottle homemade pasta sauce. My dad would say why buy new when it can be fixed. We had one family car, one TV and when I grew out of my clothes they would be handed down to my younger brother whether he liked it or not! We were resourceful not wasteful” he remembers.

Insulation is a must as it stops heat flow into your home in summer, and keeps your home warm in winter. It can also help with weatherproofing and soundproofing the home. The amount and type of insulation you need will depend on your climate, and there are two main types of insulation:

1. Bulk insulation, which acts as a barrier to heat flow between your home and the outside, keeping heat out of your home in summer and inside your home in winter. It comes in batts, rolls, and boards and can be made from materials like glass, wool, polyester, natural wool or recycled paper. Bulk insulation is usually used in homes located in cooler climates; and
2. Reflective insulation, which is generally used to keep your home cool in summer by deflecting radiant heat. It’s usually shiny aluminium foil laminated onto paper or plastic. Reflective insulation is usually used in homes located in hot and very sunny climates.

Some insulation products combine features of both bulk and reflective insulation. The most economical time to install insulation is during construction, but it can be added at any time. See here for more.
One of the great features of FOILBOARD is that is designed to last for the life of the building. It won’t ever sag, delaminate or deteriorate so it never needs to be replaced. Its ability to create a more consistent ambient temperature means home owners are not reliant on inefficient artificial heating and cooling. The goal is to reduce energy use and greenhouse gases.

Carlo’s tips for a more sustainable home

Around 40% of the energy consumption in an average Australian household goes towards heating and cooling. Insulating your home is the most effective thing you can do to keep your home comfortable and to save energy and money. There are many different types of insulation available so do your research and consider the thermal values of various insulation materials and applications. Don’t be afraid to ask for certifications. As a manufacturer in the insulation industry, FOILBOARD will supply fully certified thermal calculations to support their product within specific applications.
You can find Green Energy Insulation and contact them fort advice here
Helen