The truth about bubble wrap home insulation

July 15, 2021

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3 min read

Would you insulate your home in bubble wrap and foil? A Dutch company called PXA Nederland sent me these samples of Isobooster insulation which might be the most fun and innovative product I’ve received.

Introduction

The Isobooster insulation is composed of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) bubble wrap with small air cushions, as well as larger air cushions and a polyester or PET film treated with evaporated aluminum. It addresses the three modes of heat transfer—conduction, convection, and radiation. While traditional insulation materials like rock wool and glass wool focus on conductive heat flow, Isobooster prioritizes the flow of heat through infrared radiation.

In the winter, traditional insulation absorbs interior heat and slows down its loss to the exterior. In contrast, Isobooster insulation reflects heat back to the interior, providing a more effective approach to insulation. In the summer, Isobooster reflects heat to the outside, further enhancing its performance.

Advantages

Installation is simple and DIY-friendly, with the product easily cut to size and attached to wood studs using staples or capped nails.
It releases no harmful fibers or dust, causing no skin or airway irritation or toxic fumes.
Isobooster is eight times lighter than conventional insulation materials, leading to lower transportation and labor costs and reduced CO2 emissions.
The product’s environmentally friendly aspect lies in its recyclability. Polyethylene is a thermoplastic material that can be melted down into new products repeatedly. The aluminum deposits in Isobooster are minimal and dissolve easily during recycling.
With a lifespan of up to 70 years, Isobooster resists caustic substances, damage, and thermal drift, making it an insect and rodent repellent.

Disadvantages

Its R value is on the lower end compared to some insulating materials like fiberglass.
Isobooster’s fire resistance is a concern, as it may ignite after prolonged exposure to flames. However, it does not emit toxic fumes when burned.
The cost of Isobooster insulation is higher than some traditional options like rockwool, but its unique benefits and longer lifespan may offset these expenses.
In air-tight buildings without proper ventilation, water vapor may accumulate and lead to condensation issues and mold growth. Proper sizing of mechanical equipment is essential to ensure adequate air circulation and prevent such problems.

Conclusion

Overcoming psychological and mental barriers associated with lightweight materials is another challenge for Isobooster. Consumers tend to associate mass and density with quality, overlooking the performance benefits of innovative products. Educating the public about the clean and efficient manufacturing process of LDPE and PET film, as well as the recyclability of Isobooster, can help address these concerns.

Despite some drawbacks, Isobooster remains an exciting and futuristic insulation option. As the tiny home, van conversion, and boat communities adopt it as test subjects, its true potential will be demonstrated. With continued advancements and wider acceptance, Isobooster may pave the way for a more sustainable and efficient approach to home insulation.