What You Should Know About Double-Bubble, Single-Bubble & Woven R-17 Insulation?

Standing even 5 minutes in a structure without insulation in summer can be unbearable. The temperature inside can soar and make it uncomfortable and difficult to work or relax. It can also affect the storage items and deteriorate them. Insulation helps keep your building cool in summer and warm in winter. So, everything inside the building stays safe and in good condition throughout the year.

Insulation is crucial for all structures; however, metal buildings need it more. So, if you plan to install a new steel structure or upgrade the existing one on your property, metal building insulation is necessary. But with the many insulation options like double-bubble, single-bubble, and woven R-17, how do you choose the right one?

We have explained the differences, pros and cons, and the best uses of all three insulations. You can get detailed information and make informed decisions before installing a steel building on your property for any purpose.

Single Bubble Insulation

Thickness:

The thickness of single-bubble insulation depends on many factors. It can range from 3/16 to ¼ inch. If you want to use a single bubble for duct, garage door insulation, pipe, or water heater, 1/8″ thickness can be more suitable.

Types of Single Bubble Insulation

Reflective Single Bubble Insulation

This type includes a single layer of air bubbles. This is sandwiched between reflective surfaces, which is good for reflecting heat and preventing temperature changes. It’s commonly used in smaller steel buildings and sheds.

Foil-Faced Single Bubble Insulation

This type of insulation consists of air bubbles with a reflective foil layer. It is good for controlling moisture and temperature in metal buildings. You can use this type of insulation in agricultural structures and workshops.

Polyethylene Single Bubble Insulation

It is made from polyethylene air bubbles with a protective film. It is widely used for basic thermal insulation and moisture control. If you want to install residential and light commercial buildings, this type of insulation can be a cost-effective option.

Single Bubble Insulation with Vapor Barrier

This type combines a single layer of air bubbles with a vapor barrier. It is effective in preventing condensation in humid areas. So, if you live in agricultural or coastal areas and want a steel shed or steel boat carport, it can be perfect for maintaining temperatures.

So, It Is Best Suitable for:

Smaller steel buildings like garages, sheds, or workshops with moderate temperature control needs. So, if moisture control is a priority in your space, this type of metal building Insulation can help.

Positive Points:

• A budget-friendly option for basic insulation needs.
• Lightweight and easy to install.
• Helps to prevent condensation and little temperature fluctuations.

Negative Points:

• Lower R-value, so it’s not ideal for buildings in extreme climates or with high insulation requirements.
• Offers minimal protection against heat or cold in larger or industrial steel buildings.

Double Bubble Insulation

Thickness:

The thickness can vary because of the intended use of the building. It can range somewhere from 3/8 inch to 1/2 inch. Thickness affects the R-value of double bubble insulation.

Types of Double Bubble Insulation

Reflective Double Bubble Insulation

This insulation features two layers of air bubbles with reflective aluminum foil. It helps maintain comfortable temperatures by preventing heat from entering or escaping the building.

Foil-Faced Double Bubble Insulation

Consists of two layers of air bubbles with a foil layer on both sides. It provides enhanced thermal protection. It also helps with soundproofing and moisture control in steel buildings.

Vapor Barrier Double Bubble Insulation

This type has a vapor barrier along with two layers of air bubbles, ideal for moisture-sensitive areas. It prevents condensation and controls temperature.

R-Value Double Bubble Insulation

If you need higher insulation performance while keeping the cost low, R-value double bubble insulation can fit your needs effectively. It offers a higher R-value for better thermal resistance. You can use it for cold storage and data centers as well.

Radiant Barrier Double Bubble Insulation

It uses two air bubble layers with a radiant barrier to reflect thermal radiation. It helps maintain temperature stability and improves energy efficiency in steel buildings.

So, It Is Best Suitable for:

You can choose this type of insulation for medium-sized steel structures like workshops, small warehouses, or agricultural buildings. Basically, it is suitable for structures that can experience mild to moderate temperature changes.

Positive Points:

• It provides better thermal resistance compared to a single bubble. You can choose it to keep the building cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
• Its reflective properties help reduce heat transfer, which makes the steel structure energy-efficient.
• Moreover, the insulation helps reduce noise. So, if you are installing industrial and commercial steel structures, it can be an effective option.

Negative Points:

• The insulation may not be thick enough for areas with extreme weather conditions.
• It might not be suitable for larger steel buildings. Additional insulation can be required.

Woven R-17 Insulation

Thickness:

It comprises woven fabric and multiple reflective foil layers. Here, R-value 17 means insulation has a high thermal resistance. Double bubble thickness is 0.25”, and woven is 0.688” in this type of insulation. Well, it can vary depending on the building’s needs.

Types of Woven R-17 Insulation

Woven R-17 Insulation with Vapor Barrier

This insulation type includes a vapor barrier to prevent moisture buildup. If you live in an area where high humidity is a concern, customized steel structures with this type of insulation can serve you effectively. It is ideal for farming and ranching structures like steel livestock shelters.

Woven R-17 Hybrid Insulation

It features thermal insulation with soundproofing qualities. It can better serve your purpose for multi-use steel buildings. Since it helps in both temperature control and reducing noise, you can use it for offices or workshops.

Woven R-17 Thermal Insulation with Air Retardant Layer

This insulation prevents heat loss by sealing air gaps with its air-retardant layer. It is good for enhancing energy efficiency. If you are worried about installing steel buildings in colder areas, this insulation can be the best option. You can get extra protection against drafts and heat loss.

So, It Is Best Suitable for:

Since it provides superior protection than the double bubble insulation, it is suitable for larger steel structures like commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and residential steel homes. Here, superior temperature control is needed.

Positive Points:

• High R-value provides excellent thermal insulation and keeps the temperature stable regardless of outside weather.
• It is great at preventing condensation, which can be an issue in metal buildings.
• This insulation is long-lasting and durable, perfect for installing large prefab metal buildings in adverse weather conditions.

Negative Points:

• Higher upfront cost than other types of insulation.
• It may require professional expertise, especially in large or complex steel buildings.

Single-Bubble VS. Double-Bubble VS. Woven R-17 Insulation

Making a decision to buy a prefabricated steel building can be tough if you overlook the crucial customization option, “Insulation.” Till now, you have read a lot about different types of insulation. But still, it can be intimidating because of an abundance of information. We have made it easy for you to decide with our quick table below.

A quick comparison Table to save you time.

Choose the Right Insulation for Your Steel Building

Maintaining temperature control is crucial, but choosing the right solution provider is also important for the best results. Whether you need a single bubble, double bubble, or woven R-17, Viking Steel Structures offers options that suit your needs. Besides metal building insulation, you can also tailor your metal building size, doors, windows, colors, trims, panels, and more.

Whether you need the structure for commercial or residential purposes, our services will fit your needs accurately. Moreover, we use 100% galvanized steel to ensure durability, strength, and resistance against harsh weather conditions. These structures can withstand wind-speed up to 180 miles/hr and snow load of 80 lbs/sq ft.

So, you can ensure a perfect insulated, durable, and cost-effective structure with our help that lasts for years. Reach out to our team at 877-801-3263 for expert guidance and the best deals on metal buildings.