Metac: the 2 in 1 solution for quieter loft living.
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August 30, 2018
Isover’s Metac range of insulation has recently been tested to show that it can achieve ‘outstanding’ noise reduction within pitched roof rafter applications. Independent testing, by the University of Salford, has found that in addition to ‘excellent’ thermal performance, Metac can achieve a reduction of up to 49dB for externally generated airborne sound.
Many homeowners living in loft spaces, especially within high-density urban areas, are subject to external noise from trains, planes and traffic, as well as noise from adverse weather conditions such as driving wind and rain. Isover says it can increase the acoustic comfort of occupants by helping reduce these unwanted external sounds at the same time as efficiently insulating the living space.
Sarah Buchanan, product manager at Isover, said: “Our 2 in 1 acoustic and thermal insulation solution, Metac, offers housebuilders the opportunity to add value and improve the acoustic performance of the houses they build, without adding additional cost. Research has shown there is increasing evidence that long-term environmental noise can have a negative influence on people’s health and wellbeing. What’s more, it has been found that our bodies may still respond to noise during sleep, therefore suggesting that repeated sleep disturbance can cause stress and ill health. By considering the acoustic impact at the outset, through a fabric-first approach, housebuilders can address these issues and improve overall customer satisfaction.”
Metac is said to have several other benefits alongside its proven acoustic performance. Research conducted by Isover discovered that installers routinely experience problems with finding insulation that is quick and easy to fit accurately between the pitched roof rafters whilst minimising gaps and waste on site and achieving the U-values required by the Building Regulations. This is a problem that Isover says it has solved, as it can easily be friction-fitted between the rafters, without creating airgaps or slumping.
Metac is also said to be easy to install, as the rolls are lightweight and easy to handle. They are also extremely resilient and easy to cut, so there is very little wastage on site, and typically offcuts are re-used to fill smaller gaps.
With a thermal conductivity of 0.034W/mK, the Metac range reportedly offers housebuilders a cost-effective glass mineral wool solution that allows them to meet a wide range of U-values, helping future occupiers to live more comfortably within their property, using less energy and reducing their household bills. Metac is manufactured from up to 80% recycled glass and is non-combustible, achieving an A1 Euroclass fire rating.
