Sufficient insulation keeps commercial buildings comfortable by trapping interior air inside while not allowing exterior air entry. At the same time, it lowers utility costs and reduces wear on HVAC equipment. Commercial roofing companies and other contractors consider R-values carefully when deciding on the right type of insulation for their clients’ projects. This guide explains what an R-value is. 

Understanding R-Values

An R-value is a measure of an insulating material’s resistance to the flow of heat. The higher the R-value, the more effective the material will be when it comes to insulating a building. Additionally, different types of materials have different R-values. For example, plywood has an R-value of 1.25 per inch, while closed-cell polyurethane commercial spray foam insulation has a much higher R-value of 6 or 7 per inch. 

In addition to the type of material being used, R-values can also be affected by the thickness of the material and how dense it is. Mediums can also be combined for a higher R-value. Using the above examples, if your commercial roofing contractor were to combine plywood and foam insulation, it would result in an R-value of 7.25 or 8.25.

Factors That Affect R-Values for Commercial Projects

Much like building codes, properties are also subject to energy codes that stipulate the minimum requirements a property must meet to remain in compliance. In Nebraska, minimum R-values depend on what part of the building is under discussion.

The minimum R-value for ceiling insulation is 38, while flooring insulation must have an R-value of at least 30. Minimum requirements vary from city to city or county to county. However, all buildings in Nebraska are required to match the general Nebraska Energy Code. 

If you are interested in improving your building’s insulation, A&M Contractors, Inc. is here to help. Based in Lincoln, NE, these commercial roofing contractors also provide effective commercial spray foam insulation installation. Closed-cell polyurethane foam has a high R-value and also helps stabilize building structures, including roofs. Because they frequently work with commercial clients like property managers and small business owners, they’re well-versed in building code compliance. Call (402) 890-2343 today to get started on your free quote. You can also visit them online to learn more about insulation installation.