Floors in the basement and cellar
The use of isospan for floor insulation. Technical characteristics of isospan and its features

The use of isospan for floor insulation. Technical characteristics of isospan and its features

In 1998, the Hexa company began producing vapor barriers under the ISOSPAN trademark - functional materials. The products quickly gained recognition due to their high technical parameters and affordable price. Instructions for using Izospan will allow you to correctly select the membrane in accordance with the conditions of its use and correctly install the vapor barrier in the insulation system of building structures of a house or roof.

Vapor barrier brand Izospan

Application of Izospan

Izospan is a non-woven membrane or film that is used as part of insulating structures to protect the heat insulator from moisture, as well as wood and metal elements from rot and corrosion.

In construction, Izospan roof waterproofing is used, which is attached directly to the rafters under the sheathing, and a vapor barrier for installation from the attic side, in order to protect the fibrous insulation from moisture accumulation. Also, vapor barrier film is used for insulation of attic floors, floors and ceilings, and thermal insulation of walls on the room side.

For the walls of a wooden structure that is insulated from the outside, a vapor-permeable membrane is used, which protects the fibrous heat insulator from weathering and does not prevent the escape of steam.

Example of use in an insulated roof

Types and purpose of material

Before buying material, you need to understand what types of Izospan the manufacturer offers, their features and purpose. The range includes rolled materials made of non-woven fabric and film, including those with additional coating. Installation of Izospan is carried out depending on the purpose of a particular type of product.

The characteristics of Izospan vapor barrier of different types have significant differences. According to the classification, three types of materials can be distinguished:

hydro- and windproofing membranes;
hydro- and vapor barrier films with different properties;
vapor-tight roll materials that promote heat conservation.

Groups of materials of the Izospan trademark

Each type of Izospan has several versions. All have letter markings, which simplifies the choice at the point of purchase and helps to understand how this or that material should be used. You can read more detailed instructions in the user manuals.

Vapor-permeable membranes for waterproofing and wind protection

A membrane made of non-woven fabric for creating waterproofing, vapor-permeable barriers is developed for external work on thermal insulation of roofs and wall structures. The material does not allow moisture to pass through and is able to protect the insulation from the effects of precipitation and wind.

In addition to waterproofing the insulation, the diffusion membrane performs another function - it prevents condensation of moisture entering the fibrous heat insulator through the walls of the building along with steam. The steam is quickly released outside, so that wooden structures are not threatened by fungus, and the insulation does not lose its thermal insulation properties.

Example of ceiling vapor barrier

Diffusion membranes are made of polypropylene. Their use is safe for human health and prevents the appearance of fungus. Scope of use:

insulation of pitched roofs with an angle of inclination over 35°;
construction of frame houses;
external wall cladding with siding or clapboard;
hydro- and wind protection of heat insulation under ventilated facades.

Izospan A, AM, AS, AQ proff, A with OZD

The line of hydro-windproof, vapor-permeable membranes includes non-woven materials of various densities:

Izospan A (density indicator 110 g/m2) is the most permeable membrane of the entire line, it allows moisture to escape out, but does not let it in. When installing, it is necessary to leave a gap for ventilation.
Izospan AM (90 g/m2) is a three-layer membrane. The technical characteristics of Izospan AM allow the installation of a protective hydro- and wind barrier without a ventilation gap, since air circulates between the layers of material and removes moisture.
Izospan AS (115 g/m2) is also a three-layer diffusion non-woven material, but more dense than AM.
Izospan AQ proff (120 g/m2) is a professional material. Izospan AQ proff has a three-layer structure with reinforced reinforcement. It is recommended to use Izospan AQ proff if externally insulated walls or roofing systems will have to be left for some time without an external protective and decorative coating. Features of Izospan AQ proff - increased resistance to moisture, ultraviolet radiation, and mechanical damage.
Izospan A with OZD - the material differs from Izospan A in the presence of fire retardant additives. A non-flammable membrane is used if welding work is expected to be carried out in close proximity to an insulated structure, for example, when installing ventilation facades.

Table of vapor-permeable membranes

Microporous membranes are made of two or three layers. Their characteristic feature is the different quality of the material on the front and back sides. One side is smooth, the other is rough. Hydro-windproof Izospan is laid to the insulation with the white side if we are talking about Izospan AQ proff, AM and AS membranes. In this case, the diffusion barrier Izospan A and A with OZD, according to the instructions, is mounted with the smooth side outward. The accumulated condensate should flow along it into the drainage drain.

Waterproof and vapor barrier films

Waterproof and vapor barrier film is intended for indoor installation. It is used to protect insulation and structures from moisture, which increases the thermal conductivity of the thermal insulator and contributes to the destruction of wood and metal. The use of films that do not allow steam and condensation to pass through extends the service life of insulation and building structures if the installation has been carried out correctly.

Scope of application of hydro- and vapor barrier films:

arrangement of the floor base;
installation of an insulated roof (protection of the material insulating a flat or pitched roof);
insulation of building envelopes, sound insulation of partitions;
protection of floors - basement, interfloor, attic (serves as a waterproofing barrier);
laying wood-containing or wooden floor coverings (parquet boards, floor slats, laminate).

Laying vapor barrier on the floor

Izospan B, C, D, DM, RM, RS

The manufacturer offers a wide range of materials that serve as vapor barriers and waterproofing. All types of Izospan differ in density and functional purpose:

Izospan B (density indicator 72 g/m2). Vapor barrier Izospan B is one of the most popular types of material due to its characteristics and affordable price. With its help, internal walls, ceilings with basement and interfloor ceilings, attics and attics under an insulated roof are vapor-insulated.
Izospan S (90 g/m2). Concrete floors are waterproofed with film. The material is laid to protect the heat insulation on pitched roofs.
Izospan D, DM (105 g/m2). Izospan D and DM are varieties of high-strength material. Brand DM has an anti-condensation surface. Izospan D, DM is designed for high loads. Izospan D and DM are primarily used for waterproofing flat or pitched roofs. The material is suitable for use as a temporary roof covering. Izospan D will also help resolve issues with a concrete floor or basement floor if the structures require reliable protection from moisture.
Izospan RS (84 g/m2), RM (100 g/m2). Like Izospan D, these types of films are characterized by high strength. In particular, it is achieved due to the three-layer structure of Izospan RS and RM - a polypropylene mesh is located in the middle. Application of Izospan RS and RM - arrangement of hydro- and vapor barriers for ceilings, wall structures, floors, ceilings, for any type of roof.

The wide scope of application and technical characteristics of the materials Izospan D, C, B, Izospan RS and RM make them the most popular among all roll materials of the brand.

Table of steam and waterproofing

Izospan D, like other representatives of the group, has two outer layers with different functions. One of the surfaces is smooth, the second is rough and fibrous. The roughness of the outer side contributes to the properties of the material to retain and disperse settling steam and condensate over the surface, allowing it to quickly evaporate.

High-strength fabrics (Izospan D, Izospan RS, RM) are treated with water-repellent compounds during the manufacturing process. The hydrophobic material is suitable for use as a waterproofing layer during the installation of earthen floors and cement screeds on a concrete base in wet rooms.

When installing a vapor barrier, it is necessary to lay Izospan with a smooth surface to the insulating material. Depending on the operating conditions of the structure, it may be necessary to provide a ventilation gap of 40–50 mm to ensure moisture evaporation.

Heat-reflecting vapor-waterproofing materials

Among the Izospan materials, it is worth highlighting films on which an aluminum coating is applied using the spraying method. A feature of foil materials is the ability to reflect thermal radiation.

Indoors, foil film is used to create a vapor-waterproofing barrier to protect the heat insulator, as well as to increase the energy efficiency of insulation. When installed outside the building, the foil material will protect the insulation from precipitation and weathering.

Using foil material in the attic

Izospan FB, FD, FS, FX

The group includes foil materials, the structure of which can significantly reduce heat loss in heated rooms. The specific purpose of materials marked Izospan FB, Izospan FS, Izospan FD, Izospan FX is selected in accordance with the characteristics of the base and coating.

Izospan FB (density indicator 132 g/m2). The basis is thin, high-density construction cardboard. Izospan FB is equipped with a lavsan coating with aluminum coating on the outside. Area of use: covering ceilings and walls in saunas and baths. Izospan FB is capable of blocking up to 90% of heat rays.
Izospan FD (132 g/m2). This is a woven base made of polypropylene with a layer of aluminum applied on one side. Izospan FD allows you to create a protective barrier along the ceiling and floor of the attic; it is used when installing a heated floor system, water or electric.
Izospan FS (92 g/m2). The base of Izospan FS is made of non-woven fabric, on top of which foil is applied. Izospan FS is a rolled material that is not afraid of moisture, durable and easy to install. It is used as a roofing heat and vapor barrier for sloping roofs, as well as for frame walls.
Izospan FX (145-175 g/m2). Izospan FX is distinguished by a foamed polymer base 2–5 mm thick with an aluminum coating. Izospan FX can be used as an independent heat insulator or mounted in combination with other types of insulation. Area of use: heat-reflecting, hydro- and vapor-tight cladding of walls, ceilings, and attics. Also installed as a heat-reflecting underlay under laminate.

In accordance with the instructions, materials such as Izospan FB, Izospan FS, Izospan FD, Izospan FX are laid in such a way that the foil heat-reflecting side faces the room.

Installation of hydro-wind protection and vapor barrier on insulated pitched roofs

Taking into account the technical parameters of the material, Izospan grade A is used as waterproofing and wind protection for the insulated roofing pie of a pitched roof. To find out the required amount of material, you need to calculate the area of all slopes and calculate the number of rolls.

Laying Izospan for roof waterproofing (choice between grade A and similar types of material - AM, AQ proff) is carried out using the instructions:

At the preliminary stage, fiber insulation slabs are inserted between the rafters.
Waterproofing roll material should be placed on the outside of the wooden roof frame in horizontal stripes, starting from the bottom.
It is important not to confuse which side to lay Izospan to the insulation - place the waterproofing on the insulation with the white side without inscriptions.
Laying is carried out with an overlap of the upper strip on the lower one by 15–20 cm, without tensioning the web, but also without allowing sagging - otherwise the material will make noise in a strong wind.
During the laying process, the material is fixed to the rafters with staples using a construction stapler.
The upper strip in the ridge part is mounted with a bend on the second slope; the instructions for use of Izospan indicate that it is advisable to avoid joining the strips in the ridge part of the pitched roof.
Slats are stuffed along the rafters to create a ventilation gap (the thickness of the slats is 40–50 mm) so that air flows help remove moisture from the insulating layer. A self-adhesive sealing tape is first attached under the slats, and then the sheathing for the roofing is mounted on them.
All joints and abutments of the waterproofing material to the structures are glued with mounting tape for sealing.

If Izospan DM is selected as a waterproofing barrier for an insulated pitched roof, the instruction manual requires that a ventilation gap be provided between it and the insulation. This can be done by placing counter battens along the rafters. In addition, ventilation holes must be provided at the roof ridge.

Roofing pie of insulated pitched roof

A pitched roof, insulated with a fiber insulator, needs a high-quality vapor barrier on the attic or attic side so that moisture does not damage the insulation. For these purposes, you can use a vapor barrier film of grade B or RS, or select a suitable foil material.

Let's look at how to properly install vapor barriers, following the instructions:

Izospan film grade B, RS has a smooth and rough side. It should be laid with a smooth surface towards the heat insulator, and a rough surface towards the room. When laying, the canvases are placed horizontally, overlapping, gluing the seams with a special tape. The material is attached to the rafters using brackets.
Foil-coated Izospan is simple to use - usually there are no questions about which side to put the material on, since it is clear that the metallized side should reflect thermal radiation from the heat source in the room. The canvases are laid overlapping (FX-butt) and secured to the frame with staples. The installation instructions require the use of aluminum tape to seal the seams.

Insulated roof scheme

Installation of waterproofing for non-insulated pitched roofs

To protect the wooden elements of the frame of an uninsulated roof from precipitation, wind and condensation, it is recommended to use Izospan film grade D or DM (featuring an anti-condensation surface), as well as RM or RS as a wind-waterproof barrier.

On roofs of complex configuration, or taking into account further insulation of the roof, it is recommended to use vapor-permeable reinforced material of the AQ proff brand.

Since it is not necessary to insulate the roof before laying waterproofing, the material is immediately rolled out over the rafters and cut to size. The strips are mounted horizontally, from bottom to top, using a construction stapler with staples or nails with wide heads. The overlap at all horizontal and vertical joints is from 15 cm. Joints and junctions should be glued using a special mounting tape. Self-adhesive tape is installed over the flashing along the rafters to seal the attachment points. Counter battens are placed on top under a solid or sparse sheathing for installation of roofing material on the roof.

Roofing pie of an uninsulated pitched roof

Which side to lay the wind-waterproof barrier:

for films D, DM, RM, RS, the smooth side should be facing upward, towards the roofing;
Membranes used as waterproofing, including AQ proff, are laid with the white side down.

The used waterproofing film D, DM, RM or RS additionally requires the installation of a ventilation slot in the roof ridge.

Installation of steam-waterproofing on insulated flat roofs

If a flat roof requires external insulation, use Izospan grade D or RM; it is also possible to use RS and C films. The material is rolled out onto a base of concrete slabs with an overlap of 15–20 cm. The choice of side of installation does not matter. To connect the strips to each other and to attach them to concrete structures, proprietary connecting tapes are used. Insulation and roofing are installed on top.

Pie flat roof

Installation of attic floors

It is important to use the right materials for arranging attic floors, choosing them depending on operating conditions and purpose of use:

If it is necessary to protect the heat insulator in the ceiling between a heated room and an uninsulated attic from weathering and moisture, and to ensure the removal of vapors from it, AQ proff, AM or AS membranes are used. The sheets should be laid with the white side facing the heat insulator, close to each other, without gaps.
A vapor barrier layer, which simultaneously protects against insulation particles entering the air, is installed on the side of the living room. Film grade B, RS, C or DM should be laid between the sub-ceiling and the finishing. The rough side should be facing down. It is advisable to provide a ventilation gap (40–50 mm) between the sub-ceiling and the vapor barrier.

Attic floor diagram

The vapor barrier on the room side of the rough ceiling can be mounted from foil materials.

Today, not a single construction site can be built without vapor barrier membranes: they are used for cladding a house, laying a roof, and insulating a bathhouse. The use of films extends the life of structures and also protects them from the appearance of fungus and mold. Vapor barriers are produced by many manufacturers, but Izospan (Gexa company) has been among the leading brands for several years. Let's look at his example of how to select and correctly lay a building membrane or film.

Vapor protection of the roof and walls serves one purpose - to prevent the formation of a “dew point” inside the structure. This term refers to the temperature at which excess moisture turns into condensation. Indicators vary depending on the initial air humidity - for example, in most residential premises the dew point occurs at a temperature of +10 degrees.

To understand what we are talking about, imagine the room as a balloon. If the air inside the room is warmer than outside (and in the middle zone this happens for almost 9 months a year), it will tend to go beyond the “ball”. Cold air, on the contrary, tries to penetrate inside the house. If you do not build a proper barrier that allows warm steam to escape, but does not allow icy air to penetrate inside, they will meet somewhere in the thickness of the wall and fall out as condensation. The result of such a rendezvous is usually not pleasing - wet structures freeze and become covered with mold that is difficult to remove.

Dew point offset

How does a vapor barrier film work? When using it, moist air comes out without being trapped in the insulation, the dew point moves and condensation does not fall out. Installation of a membrane is not always justified. If there is no temperature difference, then no dew point will form. But in many cases Izospan is necessary:

when insulating external walls with mineral wool;
in frame wall structures;
on ventilated facades;
on pitched and flat roofs insulated with bulk or fibrous materials;
in buildings where there is no constant heating (dachas, country houses);
in rooms with high humidity.

It is better to entrust the selection of vapor barrier to a specialist. Of course, there are general recommendations, but in each case many factors need to be taken into account. The most important of them is which side to lay the vapor barrier towards the insulation.

Technical characteristics of Izospan

Types of vapor barrier Izospan

The website isospan.gexa.ru presents a wide range of membranes for all occasions, but we will consider the most common ones.

First, let's learn a few important terms:

Vapor permeability is the ability of a material to allow steam to pass through. The data presented are the result of testing Izospan at the certification institute Central Research Institute of Industrial Buildings.
Maximum tensile force – the highest value of tensile force without breaking the material, recorded during testing. Measured in longitudinal and transverse direction.

The Izospan brand offers all types of vapor barrier films

Waterproofing windproof vapor-permeable membranes

The materials are intended to protect the building structure and insulation from unfavorable factors: the accumulation of condensation, as well as the entry of moisture and wind from the external environment. Membranes only work in one direction, so the question of how to install a vapor barrier is very relevant.

The vapor barrier is attached with an overlap

Comparative characteristics

View	Areas of use	Peculiarities	Vapor permeability, not less	Roll area, m2
Izospan A	frame walls external insulation ventilated facades	Laying the insulation on the outside - under the wall cladding	2000	35,70
Izospan AM	frame walls external insulation ventilated facades attic floors insulated sloping roofs	Three-layer membrane. Installs without ventilation gap. Maximum tensile force – 160/100 N/50 mm.	880	35,70
Izospan AS		Three-layer membrane. Installs without ventilation gap. Maximum tensile force – 190/110 N/50mm.	880	35,70
Izospan A with OZD	ventilated facades	Used when carrying out welding work or using a blowtorch. Contains fire retardant additives.	1800	70
Izospan AQ proff	frame walls external insulation ventilated facades attic floors sloping roofs with and without insulation	Three-layer reinforced waterproof membrane	1000	70

Vapor barrier waterproof films

Internal water vapor barrier for walls and roofs protects the premises from the penetration of the smallest particles of insulation, and also prevents the formation of condensation.

Roof waterproofing scheme

Comparative characteristics

View	Areas of use	Peculiarities	Vapor permeability, not less	Roll area, m2
Izospan B	walls – frame and internal ceilings – attic, basement, interfloor insulated sloping roofs	Double layer structure. The smooth side is attached to the insulation, the rough side is attached to the outside. The second side is responsible for retaining and evaporating condensate. Izospan S is also suitable for concrete floors.	1000	35,70
Izospan C			1000	35,70
Izospan D	concrete floor subfloors roofs – flat and uninsulated sloping basement floors	High-strength woven material, resistant to mechanical stress. Can be used as a temporary roof.	1000	35,70
Izospan RS, RM	all types of floors concrete floor subfloors	Three-layer insulation reinforced with polypropylene mesh. Breaking load RS – 413/168, RM – 399/172.	1000	70
Izospan DM	roofs – sloping with or without insulation, flat all types of floors concrete floor subfloors walls – internal and frame	Woven vapor and waterproofing with high density. Protects the insulation from atmospheric influences.	1000	70

Reflective insulation with energy-saving effect

Metallized materials not only protect the structure of the house, but also reflect infrared radiation, reducing the time it takes to warm up the room.

Reflective vapor barrier conserves heat

Comparative characteristics

View	Areas of use	Peculiarities	Vapor permeability, not less	Roll area, m2
Izospan FB	saunas and baths	Kraft paper coated with lavsan. Can be used in a steam room.	Vaporproof, waterproof	35
Izospan FD	warm floor reflective screens sloping roofs frame walls	Polypropylene woven fabric with metallized coating. Breaking load – 800/700.		70
Izospan FS	warm floor reflective screens sloping roofs frame walls	Polypropylene non-woven fabric backed with metallized film. Reduces heat loss.		70
Izospan FX	ceilings – attic and basement warm floor reflective screens sloping roofs frame walls underlay for parquet and laminate	Foamed polyethylene, backed with metallized lavsan film. Thickness – from 2 to 5 mm.		36

Important! Detailed information on each type of films and membranes is presented on the official Izospan website.

Installation of vapor barrier

Work on laying films and membranes does not require special qualifications. The most important thing is to follow simple installation rules and watch which side the vapor barrier is placed on the insulation.

General installation rules

Before starting work, carefully study the packaging of Izospan. The manufacturer provides a detailed description of each type of vapor barrier.
The material must fit tightly to the surface; a small edge is required in corner areas.
Woven and non-woven fabrics are laid with an overlap (at least 15 cm).
The vapor barrier is fastened along the perimeter with a construction stapler, and at the joints it is fixed with metallized tape.
When installing metallized materials, the shiny side always faces the inside of the room. Films of this type are laid end to end and secured with special adhesive tape.
Two-layer vapor barrier Izospan is attached with the smooth side to the insulation, and the rough side - inside the room. When installing floors, the scheme is reversed.
Izospan AQ proff, AM, AS, the white side should be adjacent to the insulation.

Vapor barrier Izospan is used for interior and exterior work

Instructions for use of Izospan A

When insulating walls, type A is mounted on top of the insulation, while the inner side of the film should fit tightly to the thermal insulation, and the outer side should leave a small gap between the vapor barrier and the sheathing. The material is laid from bottom to top (do not forget about the overlap) and fixed with adhesive tape.

During roofing work, Izospan A is rolled out over the rafters and a layer of thermal insulation, installation is carried out in the direction from the bottom edge to the ridge. After the vapor barrier layer comes the sheathing. Instructions for use of Izospan AM are absolutely identical.

Important! The film should not be stretched too much, but you should not allow it to sag. In the first case, the material may tear, in the second, it may flap under high wind loads.

Instructions for use of Izospan B

The sequence of installation work is as follows:

The film is attached to the rough sheathing or rafters with the smooth side facing the insulation, the joints are sealed with metallized tape.
Metal profiles or wooden slats (recommended size - 40*50 mm) are installed on top of the vapor barrier to install the sheathing.
The finishing material is sewn onto the prepared slats, leaving a gap between it and the vapor barrier.

Important! When installing floors, Izospan V is laid directly on a cement or concrete screed.

Izospan is attached over the sheathing

Instructions for use of Izospan S, D

Vapor barriers S and D are used in several areas:

On non-insulated pitched roofs, the material is laid along the rafters, starting from the bottom. The overlap is at least 15 cm. Fixation with a counter-batten is a prerequisite.
On flat roofs, the canvas is placed on the base (floor slabs or other surface). Overlap – from 20 cm.
The film is attached to the basement floors from below using a stapler or wooden slats.
When installing concrete floors, Izospan is also laid directly on the base.

Video instructions: installation of vapor barrier Izospan

As you can see, the range of vapor barriers is not limited to a couple of items, and each item has its own installation features. Even if you decide to attach the film yourself, consult with professionals about the selection of material. Redoing a roofing pie or removing siding because of one mistake will be extremely costly.

“Izospan B”, instructions for use for roofs, ceilings, walls, etc., which will be discussed in this article, is one of the highest quality domestic vapor barriers. Its advantages include, first of all, strength and ease of installation. This material is produced by the Hexa company, whose central office is located in the Tver region.

Varieties of Izospan material

Currently, Hexa LLC produces several varieties of this material:

"Izospan A". This film is designed to protect all types of insulation from atmospheric moisture and wind.
“Izospan A.M” is a three-layer diffusion membrane installed directly on the insulation.
"Izospan A.S." In terms of its performance indicators, this type of insulator is almost identical to the previous one, but has a slightly lower level of vapor permeability.
"Izospan AQ proff." The main advantages of this film include increased tensile strength.
"Izospan S". A membrane designed for installation mainly indoors. In some cases, it can also be used outside.
"Izospan D". Multifunctional film with anti-condensation coating.
"Izospan B". The instructions for use of this material allow it to be used to protect insulation both inside and outside the room.

The latest type of vapor barrier of this brand is currently one of the most popular. Further in the article we will look in detail at what advantages and disadvantages it differs from and how exactly it is used.

Pros and cons of Izospan V film

The main advantages of this material include:

Strength. This type of film does not tear during installation and lasts a very long time.
Reliability. When using this material, the insulation remains dry under any circumstances.
Versatility. “Izospan V” can be used for any type of insulation on all structures, without exception.
Environmental cleanliness. Films from this manufacturer do not emit any harmful substances into the air.
Practicality.
Fire safety.
Easy to install.

Due to its unusual structure and structure, the Izospan B material, instructions for use of which will be given below, perfectly ensures the weathering of accumulated condensate, significantly improves the insulating qualities of the “pie”, and increases the service life of building structures and structures. When it is used, fungus and mold do not form on the walls, and the insulation always remains dry.

Scope of use

During the cold season, the difference in temperature in a living room and outside can be very large. As a result, moisture vapor, always present in the air of rooms, condenses on the enclosing structures, and if they are insulated, then directly on the insulator. As a result, mineral wool, glass wool, etc. get wet and lose most of their insulating properties. To prevent this from happening, vapor barrier membranes are used. This material is installed on top of the insulation on the room side and prevents moisture from penetrating into it.

The “Izospan B” membrane, instructions for use (“C”, by the way, is a variety used in approximately the same way, and in the same cases), which is almost identical to that of other types of heat insulator, can be installed during insulation:

“pie” of attics, attics, as well as roofs outside,
walls from the inside and from the street,
ceilings - attics and mansards,
floor.

This material can be used for insulating buildings of any purpose and any number of floors. “Izospan B” is excellent for protecting such types of insulation as mineral wool, polystyrene foam, polyurethane foam coatings, etc. from moisture.

Features of the material

“Izospan B” is a translucent film with a two-layer structure. One side has a smooth surface, and the other has a rough surface. Due to the presence of texture, condensation is retained on the surface of the material without flowing down, and evaporates very quickly. Accordingly, moisture does not penetrate into the thickness of the “pie” that insulates the structure. As a result, the formation of fungus on the wood and its rotting, as well as rusting of the metal elements of the protected surface are prevented.

General installation rules

How to install Izospan V correctly? Instructions for use (the layout diagram in the “pie” is presented below) from the manufacturer prescribes mandatory compliance with the following requirements:

Fastening to vertical and inclined structures - roofs, walls, partitions - is carried out from top to bottom. The strips are laid in a horizontal direction.
The overlap is made at least 15 cm.
For reliability, the joints are taped with a special adhesive tape.

Izospan V is mounted with the smooth side facing the insulation and the rough side towards the room. For fastening, you can use wooden blocks, clamping strips or staplers. In this case, reliable and effective protection will be provided using the vapor barrier “Izospan B”, instructions for use (see photo of correct installation on the page) of which are usually included with the roll.

Use of material for insulating attics

In this case, the insulation boards themselves are first inserted between the rafters. Next, “Izospan B” is stretched. Instructions for use (attic walls that are not insulated with this type of film cannot be properly insulated, as you understand) in this case are as follows:

Fix "Izospan" directly to the rafters. Usually fastening is done with bars 3-5 cm thick, stuffed along the legs from above. Sometimes thin pressure strips (two each) are also used. In this case, “Izospan B” is fixed on both sides of each rafter. The second method is also quite reliable. In addition, its use saves attic space. However, it is possible to fasten the material in this way only when the thickness of the rafter legs is at least 2-3 cm greater than the thickness of the insulation boards.
A finishing finish (lining, plasterboard, edged board, plywood, etc.) is mounted on top of the stretched vapor barrier. It is attached using the first method of fixing “Izospan B” to the bars. With the second - to the rafters. As a result, a ventilation gap is formed between the finishing finish and the vapor barrier, which ensures rapid drying of settled condensate.

"Izospan V": instructions for use when insulating roofs

When assembling the “pie” of roofs, the material is attached in approximately the same way as in the first case. However, in this case, the vapor barrier itself is first fixed. It is fixed from the attic side with staplers or by installing internal horizontal sheathing under the final finishing from a narrow board in increments of 50-80 cm.

Next, slabs of mineral wool or expanded polystyrene are laid between the rafters on the vapor barrier. Thanks to the sheathing, they will not fall inside, into the attic. Sometimes instead of the latter, ordinary wire is used. It is pulled from the attic side in such a way that the insulation slabs are subsequently firmly held between the rafters.

After installing the mineral wool, a waterproofing material (with a slight sag) is attached to the rafters. It is fixed with bars, onto which a transverse sheathing is subsequently placed. The selected roofing material, in turn, is attached to it.

Use for walls on the room side

Most often, this vapor barrier is used to insulate vertical walls and enclosing structures from the inside. Next, we will discuss in detail how “Izospan V” is installed in this case. Instructions for use for walls are as follows:

First, a beam is attached to the surface, the width of which is equal (or slightly greater) to the thickness of the insulation. When used for finishing drywall sheathing, a metal profile can be used.
Next, slabs of mineral wool or expanded polystyrene are installed.
On top of them - on bars, slats or staplers - the vapor barrier "Izospan V" is fixed.
Next, the finishing is installed.

Use of material when insulating walls outside

When assembling the “pie” for insulation from the street side, the procedure will be reversed. That is, first a sheathing made of 3 cm thick timber is attached to the walls (to ensure a ventilation gap). Then the vapor barrier “Izospan V” is stretched over it. Next, a counter-lattice is installed. A heat insulator is mounted between its elements. A waterproofing film is attached on top of it, and then a finishing finish (lining, siding, etc.).

This is how the Izospan V vapor barrier is usually installed outside. Instructions for using this material for walls, discussed above, however, are given mainly for finishing wooden buildings. The fact is that boards, timber and logs “breathe” and very easily allow moisture vapor to pass from inside the premises to the outside. Concrete and brick walls retain steam much better, and therefore an insulating membrane is rarely used in this case.

The method described above is usually used to sheathe smooth paving or plank surfaces. It is allowed to attach a vapor barrier to logs without pre-filling the sheathing. That is, right on the wall. In this case, ventilation will be provided by gaps at the joints of the logs.

"Izospan B": instructions for use for floors

In this case, it is also necessary to provide a ventilation gap. A waterproofing layer is first laid between the joists. Next, insulation boards are installed. Then, by fixing with bars, the Izospan V vapor barrier is attached. Next, the edged or floorboard is installed.

Insulation of attic and interfloor ceilings

And in this case, “Izospan B” is very often used as a vapor barrier. The instructions for using this material for the ceiling practically repeat the recommendations for installing it on the floor. From the attic side - when installing a residential attic - it is mounted in exactly the same way. However, this vapor barrier is usually also attached to the ceiling from below. In this case, it is fixed to the beams before installing the sheathing. For fastening, as in all other cases, small thickness bars are used. The ceiling board is mounted directly on them.

So, the basic recommendations for installing such material as “Izospan V” (instructions for use) were discussed above. By the way, this applies primarily to the ceiling. The fact is that this part of the house, not insulated in this way, cannot be properly insulated or finished. The same can be said about walls or floors. Next, we will give some tips that may be useful to someone when using this brand of material for vapor barrier of building structures:

Before laying the material, wooden walls must be treated with antiseptic compounds. The moisture between the film and the wood dries out quite quickly. However, it still doesn't hurt to be on the safe side.
It is also worth treating the wood with insect repellent. It will be impossible to do this after installing the “pie”.
The Izospan B material, as already mentioned, is very durable. However, sometimes it still happens that the film is damaged by any sharp structural elements as a result of careless actions, etc. Torn areas must be repaired using special tapes with an adhesive layer or glue designed specifically for this purpose.

As you can see, the vapor barrier “Izospan V”, instructions for use of which are given in the article, is a very reliable material and easy to install. Its cost is not too high, and its performance characteristics are significantly superior to traditional polyethylene film. Therefore, it is certainly worth using it to protect insulation from moisture in residential premises.

Every person sooner or later you have to do repairs, and sometimes build a house. There is no point in dwelling on the number of problems and questions that arise even during the first process, since there are a huge number of them.

Now the conversation will begin about one of the stages of building a house, which you absolutely must not miss, and in fact you may not have even heard about it until today. The topic of today's guide is isospan.

What it is, how to use it, what types of isospan are there, etc. Below you will find answers to all the questions asked, as well as some useful tips that will be useful to you during your work.

Purpose and characteristics of vapor barrier isospan

Izospan is a vapor barrier material that is produced in rolls and is used to insulate the walls and roofs of buildings, floors and ceilings, from the ingress of steam and moisture from the inside. In addition, this film limits the occurrence of condensation on the surfaces of walls and roofs, which can significantly increase the service life of the materials used.

If you do not use such material, then the insulation, which is usually placed in the layer between the roof, walls and interior, will quickly lose all its heat-saving properties, and may even collapse.

However, call isospan film- this is not entirely correct, because, despite the fact that the polymer film is the basis for its manufacture, after adding various minerals and substances, the polymer acquires much more useful properties.

Today isospan Quite a lot of different companies produce it, and therefore it should not be difficult for you to find and purchase it.

Installation of Izospan A material

This material is installed mainly for vapor barrier of roofs and attics, since it is insensitive to ultraviolet radiation.

Required Tools

metal profile and wooden slats;
self-tapping screws;
construction stapler and tape;
scissors for cutting coating;
vapor barrier (calculate as follows: the sum of the area of the surface to be covered and overlaps of 15 cm on each side).

Step-by-step instructions for installing Izospan A material

When installing Izospan A vapor barrier on an insulated roof, the material is cut into wide strips and overlapped. The smooth side of the vapor barrier should remain on the outside.
Installation of Izospan A should begin from the bottom of the roof. Izospan should not be allowed to come into contact with the insulation, as this can significantly reduce the waterproofing properties of the material.
You need to mount it directly onto the rafters of the roof slope, the structure can be strengthened with guide rails or self-tapping screws. But this is only suitable if, if you are installing this film as the last layer of vapor barrier. In other cases, it will be attached directly to the roof from the inside.

Between the film and the roof itself a ventilation gap must be left; its thickness should not exceed five centimeters. Around four would be ideal.
Roll material, which means joints will form. In such places it is necessary to unroll the isospan overlapping.
All joints– near walls, in corners, between layers of film, you need to glue them with adhesive tape. This will help maintain the seal.

Vapor barriers for roofs and walls, its types

Vapor barrier is necessary in every building, since it is one of the elements of moisture insulation, and none of the materials used today can boast that they completely ignore moisture that gets on it. So it is strongly recommended that you ignore this stage.

Use a vapor barrier, as has already been written before, to protect building structures from the ingress of steam and moisture from inside the premises. This way, condensation does not accumulate, which means damage cannot reach alarming proportions.

In addition, on the walls and roof, which are protected in this way, fungus will not appear, as well as various types of mold - this will also affect the service life of the entire house. So these are not the distinctive characteristics of isospan, but just general functions that any vapor barrier will perform.

In order not to list the various materials that are used in production, it is better to divide the vapor barrier into several types, depending on its properties:

Standard vapor barrier film– it has been used longer than all the others, and performs only one function, preventing steam and moisture from reaching the insulation and other internal layers, right up to the wall or roof itself. It is the easiest to use - such materials are easier to find, and they cost much less than their more modern counterparts.
The vapor barrier can be equipped with a reflective layer– it will not only protect the inner layers from moisture, but will also reflect infrared radiation back into the room. In this way, heat is retained in the house, which significantly increases the value of such film. You will pay more for the reflective layer than if it did not exist - but you are unlikely to regret such a waste of money, since the effectiveness of this method of heat preservation is more than just high.
Vapor-permeable films– it may seem nonsense to use a vapor-permeable material for vapor barrier, but here everything is a little more complicated. Condensation will still not settle on the insulation or anywhere else - the technology is such that excess moisture is simply removed outside the house. Naturally, the cost of such films is several times higher than regular ones, but it’s worth it. Although, if you do not plan to arrange a bathhouse indoors, this may turn out to be an unnecessary precaution.

So, as you can see, you have quite a wide choice and there is really a lot to think about.

Varieties of isospan

Izospan, as already said, is a membrane film that provides the inner layers of the roofing and wall “pie” with protection from steam and moisture, which, when condensing, can damage them.

Considering the number of types of vapor barrier films, it can be assumed that isospan gives its users some choice - and you will not be mistaken with the conclusions.

Izospan comes in several types, one might say, special modifications of the same film:

First four types are designated by the manufacturer as wind- and moisture-proof films, the second four are intended for hydro- and vapor barrier, but the latter are distinguished by a metallized construction - and they have the necessary qualities to reflect infrared radiation back into the room.

Technical characteristics of isospan

It is quite difficult to answer this question unambiguously, since each of the species (and, as you can see, there are quite a lot of them) has its own characteristics that distinguish them from the rest.

It would be best to again divide all types into groups, which will save your time:

Group A films, including all subtypes, they are distinguished by increased protection from the outside of the building, that is, they can be used not only as a vapor barrier, but also as a wind and waterproofing material.
If it says on the package A, then this is a regular film without any additives. AM And AS, these are films with increased protection - they are composed of three layers of material, the first being somewhat thinner than the second. Also in this group there is a fire-resistant film and a professional one, designed to work in all weather conditions.
The second type is intended mainly for internal cladding of walls and roofs. That is, this is exactly the vapor barrier we are talking about. The first type is here IN– it is composed of two layers and has good properties for retaining moisture and evaporation.
WITH intended mainly for concrete, cement and even earthen surfaces. Film option D has increased stability, since its base is woven polypropylene fabric. It is best used in rooms with high humidity.
The third group is the most special. For example, FD It is made with a duplicated metallized film; it can be used in roofing and walls, even without insulation in advance, which significantly increases its value. FS differs from the previous subspecies only in price - it is cheaper because it is less durable.
FB The films are made from kraft paper and are pre-coated with a special layer of lavsan, which will reflect heat. This material should be used in baths and steam rooms. FX in turn, it can act as additional thermal insulation due to its large thickness (2 - 5 mm).

Installation instructions for other types of Izospan

Izospan B

Since the scope of application of this type of isospan is mainly in interior spaces, you need to remember about the “pie” technology, that is, the order in which layers of material should be laid:

Roof;
Group A isospan or its subtype;
Reinforcing sheathing and ventilation gap;
IsopanV itself;
Rafters;
Interior decoration and decor;

Thus, a multilayer structure is created, protected from harmful moisture evaporation. Here you also need to remember about tightness and laying the film overlapping in difficult places.

Izospan S

Unlike other types, WITH It is used even in cases where the roof slope is quite small - up to 35 degrees. Thus, most attics are protected from moisture with its help. In addition, this film is also used in basement rooms to avoid the formation of condensation.

Installation procedure:

A vapor barrier is stretched onto the roof from below. It must be remembered that strong tension is not necessary - the isospan membrane needs free space.
The edges are attached using a construction stapler, and for the sake of tightness, everything is also sealed with adhesive tape.
overlap 15 - 20 centimeters is required.
The entire structure after tensioning, they are reinforced with lathing or simply slats; all work is done with self-tapping screws or using a hammer and a handful of nails.

Izospan DM

Installation of isospan This type is also produced mainly on sloping roofs that have not been pre-insulated. This is explained by the multilayer nature of the film itself and the presence of a powerful anti-condensation layer. All this protects the interior, as well as the roof itself, from moisture.

Installation is carried out in the same order as described in the previous paragraph of the plan. Unless, in order to avoid sagging of the material, you can use plank flooring or lathing inside the roof - it is installed on the rafters.

Izospan AM

To install this film correctly, you don’t need to have professional skills, because the whole point here is to simply follow a certain procedure:

Roll out the material over the insulation and cut it.
Lay the film overlapping;
Strengthen the edges with a construction stapler;
Seal the joints with construction tape;
Nail the structure using slats;
Mount a sheathing or flooring on top;

Important! If the flooring is installed, then a sufficient gap must be left between it and the isospan film. For this purpose, use counter-battens on which the flooring is attached, with a thickness of four to five centimeters.

Advantages and disadvantages of isospan vapor barrier

Preimu The benefits of isospan are that:

It is durable enough for its function;
Has high waterproofing abilities;
Resistant to various types of corrosion - including fungi and molds;
The operating temperature range is extremely wide – from sixty to eighty degrees;
Extremely easy to install;
Eco-friendly in production;
Has a long warranty period;
The price of isospan is about a third less than other vapor barrier materials;
It is quite easy to install according to the instructions.

There are only a few points that can be identified as disadvantages:

Films are very unstable in fires(at least most types), and therefore you cannot work with open fire;
The most inexpensive films require careful handling, otherwise, you can be left with a “broken trough,” that is, with a torn film.

Izospan is a non-woven building material that is used for insulation of residential and non-residential premises. In addition, it is necessary for protection against moisture and water. This is especially important when creating a house plan with an attic and a garage, which must be properly insulated with water and heat.

The reader will learn in this article what types of isospan exist and what advantages this material has.

Izospan: material characteristics

Isospan film is now very common in the construction market. It is used as the first barrier layer when installing insulation: it prevents moisture from entering the main thermal insulation layer of polystyrene foam or other insulation. The material consists of pure polypropylene, is completely synthetic, and therefore does not completely absorb water. When creating an insulation plan, isospan must be taken into account in the work.

Attention! Izospan is recognized as a very effective material for insulating attics, garages, and one-story buildings.

An attic is an attic space that can be used for storage or as living space. The roof itself becomes the walls of this room, which should be well insulated. Izospan insulates and protects against moisture and wind, maintaining a comfortable temperature inside the attic and the entire house.

Similarly, isospan coating is used to insulate garages and other one-story non-residential premises:

protects metal from corrosion, wood from rotting;
prevents the occurrence of condensation and moistening of the insulation, which reduces the thermal insulation properties;
reflects air flows, protecting the room from cooling and drafts;
maintains a stable indoor temperature and does not release heat.

The following advantages of isospan can be highlighted:

waterproof;
durable and environmentally friendly (does not emit harmful impurities);
has high elasticity;
protects against ultraviolet radiation;
protects from wind;
does not release, reflects heat;
withstands high pressure;
durable (lasts about 50 years);
retains its properties in the range from minus 60 to plus 80 degrees Celsius.

In terms of creating comfortable conditions inside residential premises, isospan plays an important role, especially when arranging a house with an attic, a garage and other one-story extensions in the Russian climate.

Types of material, their technical features

Nowadays, high-quality manufacturers create pure polypropylene and film from it using technological equipment, controlling the quality of production. Domestic companies are opening in Russia that offer building materials that are similar in quality to foreign companies and more favorable in price.

When choosing products, you need to focus on whether isospan has quality and safety certificates. Well-known manufacturers coordinate their production plans with legal requirements.

Nowadays, when finishing houses and non-residential premises, 4 main modifications of isospan are used, which have their own characteristics.

Izospan A

This is a film (membrane) that perfectly waterproofs and helps eliminate moisture and its vapor from the insulation. This modification is used to protect against wind and water and increases the service life of the insulation. It is used for insulating private houses, attics, garages and any other premises.

This isospan is resistant to mechanical stress and pressure, completely neutral to biological influences (mold, bacteria, etc.). Can stretch:

longitudinally by 190 mm;
transversely by 140 mm.

The material is fixed to the outside of the insulation as an additional barrier. For example, when insulating an attic, it is mounted on the roof with overlapping wide strips.

Important! The smooth surface should remain outside, the film itself should not come into contact with the insulation material. Otherwise, isospan will not be able to properly waterproof the room and insulation.

It is necessary that the membrane lies flat and does not protrude, swell or sag. Izospan A is secured with wooden slats and nails.

Izospan A can be seen in the photo:

Izospan B

This modification perfectly blocks the path of water vapor, which eliminates the impregnation of the insulation with steam.

Important! When creating a garage layout, this can be very important to ensure that there is no increase in humidity in the area where the vehicle is stored.

Izospan B is two-layer, used:

On pitched roofs.
On walls: external and internal.
To preserve floors in the basement, attic (attic).
In garages and other non-residential premises.

The vapor permeability index is 7, the material can also stretch: in the longitudinal direction by 130 mm, in the transverse direction by at least 107 mm.

Each layer of this material has its own functions:

the fleecy layer retains moisture and condensation;
The smooth part allows you to firmly fix the film with insulation.

Unlike the previous modification, isospan B is attached to the inside of the insulation. Fixed from bottom to top and overlapping. In order for the film to capture vapors and condensation, there must be a free space of at least 5 cm above the fleecy layer.

The appearance of the packaging of isospan B can be seen in the photo:

Izospan S

It also consists of two layers, but is used to protect an uninsulated roof, floors between floors, and floor insulation. Has high strength.

The film is used for vapor and water insulation:

uninsulated pitched or flat roofs;
frame, load-bearing walls;
wooden floors located parallel to the floor;
concrete floor.

Installation of non-insulated roofs (slopes) is carried out with an overlap (with a depth of about 15 cm), and is also secured using wooden slats. When arranging the attic of a house, this material perfectly insulates the room from moisture from the environment.
If we talk about wooden floors, then the film is attached directly to the insulation with a small free space from the floor (4-5 cm).
When insulating a concrete floor, isospan S is placed directly on the floor and tightened on it.

Izospan S can be seen in the photo:

Izospan D

This modification is very durable and can withstand high pressure and loads. It is used for finishing roofs. In terms of waterproofing and protection from condensation, it can withstand even heavy snow crust on itself.

Excellent for arranging the attic of a house or garage in regions with heavy snowfall. The material protects wooden structures and non-insulated roofs. Izospan D is insulated with:

flat and pitched roofs;
concrete floors and ceilings at the basement level of the house.

The high strength of the film allows you to protect the living space from wind and moisture, even in cases where the roof allows moisture to pass through.

It is also mounted overlapping horizontally in strips, secured to the rafters of the roof of the house using slats. Installation on a concrete floor is similar to the previous modification of isospan, because in many ways isospan C and D are similar in their characteristics.

Izospan D can be seen in the photo:

The main modifications of the building material are described above; there are also varieties of these modifications that have different densities or additional qualities, for example, fire retardant additives, which provide greater fire safety and protect against fire.

Manufacturers also took the time to create additional consumables that make it possible to isolate seams and minor damage. We are talking about isospan tapes - these adhesive tapes allow you to isolate seam lines and uneven surfaces. It is enough that the working surface is dry and clean - isospan adhesive tape FL, SL will ensure good impermeability of such places. There is even a metallized tape that has a high durability rating.

Important points for installing isospan

The instructions for using isospan include the following points:

Laying this insulating material does not require any special knowledge; it can be done with your own hands, taking into account the individual characteristics of the membrane.
The sales kit is always accompanied by instructions, which must be read carefully and act according to the instructions. For example, if you fasten the isospan with the reverse side, then all the work will be meaningless - no insulation will occur.
Fastening to wood is done using a stapler; you should not forget about sealing seams and possible cracks using isospan tape.
When installing a heat-insulating film, the metallized part should face the inside of the room, and the installation work itself is done end-to-end, without overlap. The seams are also sealed.

Izospan allows you to make life in your home comfortable and warm. The use of this film in the basement or attic extends the service life of the rafter system, wooden floors, and creates a stable microclimate in residential premises. Insulating the garage from moisture and condensation allows you to make the room dry and safe for the metal coating of the car and other equipment.

Modern technologies greatly simplify the arrangement of your home. By approaching the issue responsibly, each person will be able to avoid problems in their home for a long time!