As we enjoy the comfort we get from our HVAC systems, it is also paramount that we save energy and money in the process. This is where insulated metal roofs come in handy because they help reduce energy wastage and save on energy bills. Installing insulated metal roofs in Australia can also greatly improve the comfort in your home.
There are various types of insulated metals roofs in Australia. Some are designed for residential homes while others are meant for large-scale industrial use. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you look for insulated metal panels.
R and U Values
The R-value is the measure of how much thermal resistance an insulated metal roof has. Generally, the higher the R-value, the better insulation that metal roof has. In addition, R-value ratings are affected by the type of insulation used as well as the thickness and density of the insulating material.
Another thing to note is that how you install the insulation metal roofs will affect their R-value. For instance, insulated metal roofs installed in tight areas where they are compressed tend to reduce their R-value. Therefore, insulated metal roofs that are meant to fill ceiling cavities should be extra thick for effective prevention of heat loss.
The U value, on the other hand, is the reciprocal of the R-value. Ideally, the lower the U value, the better insulation the panel has. The U value is commonly used when rating insulated metal roofs for residential needs.
Insulated roof panels for homes
There are various types of insulated metal roofs in Australia. Common ones include eco-aluminum foil back panels, trapezoidal roof panels, tile profile panels, and corrugated roof panels.
Eco-aluminium foil back panels measure 2.5m to 14m thick, and have a thickness between 20 to 60mm. This puts their U value at 1.07 to 0.35 w/ (m2k). The trapezoidal panels have a thickness starting from 20mm up to 150mm. They also have a much lower U value starting at 0.65 to 0.2 w/ (m2k).
The corrugated roof panels and the tile-profile panels are what most homeowners use. For the tile-profile panels, the thickness ranges from 30 to 50 mm and u value from 0.4 to 0.3 w/ (m2k) respectively. On the other hand, corrugated roof panels are sold with a custom thickness of choice. The U value of such panels is normally rated 0.30 w/ (m2k).
Bottom-line
There are two things to look at when buying insulated metal roofs in Australia. One is the U and R values that come with the panel. The second option to consider the thickness of the roof panel depending on your residential roofing needs.
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