Reduction in Thermal Resistance of Residential Wall Assemblies Based on Size and Distribution of Voids In Two Types of Insulation

The performance of residential wall insulation is a major factor in a home’s energy consumption. Despite improved materials and best practices, poor installation of wall insulation continues to be a significant problem in the residential construction industry. Efforts have been made to grade the quality of this installation. While this method considers the percentage of insulation missing or compressed, it does not account for the location or distribution of the insulation voids. This study empirically examines the effect of size, location, and distribution of voids in sample residential wall assemblies using fiberglass batts and dense pack cellulose insulation. These tests are performed using a calibrated hot box apparatus. The development, calibration, and characterization of the hot box is also examined in this study.