Energy Source Builder
Non-toxic Insulation
It sounds like the perfect insulation. With an insulating value of 3.9 per inch, it would exceed R-21 in a 2x6 wall. It completely seals the cavity preventing air leaks. It doesn't shrink. It won't burn or attract pests. It's non-toxic and popular with "hyper-sensitive" people. It's only drawback is a higher cost compared to other materials.
It's called Air Krete, a cementitious foam insulation. Chemically, it's a ceramic material made of magnesium oxide. The two-component material is mixed on the building site and injected into cavities. It can be blown into closed walls in existing homes or open cavities in new construction. For open cavities, screen is stapled to the face of the framing. The material is pumped under pressure through the screen into the cavity. It easily fills the spaces around plumbing an wiring without leaving a void. Although it takes 40 days to fully cure the manufacturer says it can be covered with drywall immediatley after installation.
Contact: Palmer Industries
This article appeared in Energy Source Builder #29 October 1993 |
