Comparing Breathable Multifoil Insulation

Breathable Multifoil Insulation represents a significant advancement in building technology, offering a unique combination of thermal efficiency and moisture management. Unlike traditional insulation materials, these products allow vapour to pass through while maintaining excellent heat retention properties. Let’s look into comparing breathable multifoil insulation.

At its essence, breathable multifoil insulation consists of multiple layers of reflective foil and insulating materials, carefully engineered to create a product that balances thermal performance with breathability. The outer layers typically feature a microporous membrane that allows water vapour to escape while preventing liquid water from penetrating. This design addresses one of the most common issues in building insulation: moisture accumulation and its associated problems.

The reflective properties of the foil layers contribute significantly to the overall thermal performance of the insulation. These layers reflect radiant heat, effectively reducing heat transfer through the building. This dual action of managing both conductive and radiant heat transfer results in a more comfortable and energy-efficient living space.

It’s important to note that while all breathable multifoil insulations share these general characteristics, individual products can vary significantly in terms of their properties, thickness, and performance ratings. Understanding these differences is crucial in selecting the right product for your particular project requirements.

YBS BreatherQuilt

BreatherQuilt is our highest-performing breathable multifoil insulation it’s made from 11 layers. The outer layer features a true aluminium foil which enhances its thermal performance. The core of YBS BreatherQuilt consists of multiple layers of low-emissivity foil and fibrous insulation, carefully arranged to create air gaps to further improve the thermal performance. The inner layer is a breathable membrane that allows efficient moisture vapour transmission, ensuring the insulation remains dry and effective over time.

Technical Specifications

  • Thickness: 40mm compresses down to 7mm
  • Certified Roof R-Value: 1.62 m²K/W
  • External Emissivity: 0.05
  • Vapour Resistance: 0.15 MNs/g

Certifications and Quality Assurance

YBS BreatherQuilt boasts LABC and BBA approval, assuring its compliance with building regulations. Additionally, being manufactured in the UK ensures consistent quality and adherence to local standards.

YBS Breathe-R

Breathe-R Insulation

YBS Breathe-R represents another excellent option in the breathable multifoil insulation range. It consists of 2 layers and is 2mm thick the outer is made from a high-performing roofing membrane and the inner layer is a true aluminium foil that is perforated for breathability. This is our lowest thermally performing breathable multifoil however is the thinnest option and is great for any applications where space is a concern.

Technical Specifications

  • Thickness: 2mm
  • Certified Roof R-Value: 0.45 m²K/W
  • External Emissivity: 0.05
  • Vapour Resistance: 0.15 MNs/g

YBS Breathe-R Ultra

Breathe-R-Ultra.jpg

YBS Breathe-R Ultra is slightly higher performing than the original YBS Breathe-R. It consists of 3 layers the first layer is a high-performing breathable membrane, alongside a recycled internal wadding layer and the third layer is made from true aluminium foil which is fully perforated for breathability.

Technical Specifications

  • Thickness: 11mm
  • R-Value: 0.71 m²K/W
  • External Emissivity: 0.05
  • Vapour Resistance: 0.25 MNs/g

YBS BreatherFoil FR

BreatherFoil Foil FR for Timber Frames

YBS BreatherFoil is a 2-in-1 breathable and venting membrane, it has been designed to be used on timber frame structures during construction. It also meets stringent fire safety requirements which is especially important in timber frame buildings. This innovative product addresses the growing demand for insulation materials that can enhance building safety without sacrificing energy efficiency or indoor comfort.

Technical Specifications

  • Thickness: 4mm
  • R-Value Certified Walls: 0.79m²K/W
  • External Emissivity: 0.05
  • Vapour Resistance: 0.2 MNs/g
  • Fire Performance: Class B-s1,d0 (EN 13501-1)

Conclusion

When selecting the correct insulation for your application it’s important to see the differences between the types of insulation that are suitable for the job. Even though YBS BreatherQuilt is the highest performing it may not be suitable due to how thick it is. There are other options such as YBS Breathe-R and Breathe-R Ultra which are much thinner and have insulating properties but not as high as BreatherQuilt. YBS BreatherFoil FR is the only breathable multifoil suitable for timber frame buildings and is also fire-rated.