1. What is Rockwool R Value?

The R-value measures thermal resistance, indicating how well rockwool insulation resists heat flow. Higher R-values mean better insulating performance. Rockwool is a mineral wool insulation made from volcanic rock.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the R-value formula:

Where:

• \( R \) — Thermal resistance (R-value)
• \( Thickness \) — Insulation thickness in inches
• \( k \) — Thermal conductivity in Btu·in/(h·ft²·°F)

Explanation: The R-value increases with greater thickness and decreases with higher thermal conductivity.

3. Importance of R Value Calculation

Details: Accurate R-value calculation is crucial for determining the appropriate insulation thickness needed to meet building code requirements and achieve energy efficiency goals.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter thickness in inches and thermal conductivity in Btu·in/(h·ft²·°F). Typical rockwool k-values range from 0.22 to 0.30 Btu·in/(h·ft²·°F).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good R-value for rockwool insulation?
A: Recommended R-values vary by climate and application, but typically range from R-13 to R-38 for wall insulation and R-30 to R-60 for attic insulation.

Q2: How does rockwool compare to fiberglass insulation?
A: Rockwool typically has a slightly higher R-value per inch (around R-4 vs R-3.7 for fiberglass) and offers better fire resistance and soundproofing.

Q3: Can I use this calculator for other insulation materials?
A: Yes, the formula works for any insulation material, but you'll need the specific thermal conductivity (k-value) for that material.

Q4: Does compression affect R-value?
A: Yes, compressing insulation reduces its R-value as it decreases the amount of trapped air that provides the insulating properties.

Q5: How important is proper installation?
A: Extremely important. Gaps, compression, or moisture intrusion can significantly reduce the effective R-value of installed insulation.