The benefits and reasons to use breathable insulation
What does breathable mean?
The correct terms to use are 'permeable' vs 'impermeable'. Permeable (breathable) means a wall allows moister can pass through and is allowed to sit on the surface to be evaporated. Impermeable (Non-breathable) will not allow moisture to travel through it. Older buildings would generally be permeable and new concrete buildings would be impermeable. Newer buildings would compensate for the impermeablity by using ventilation systems.
Permeable walls are generally made of natural material like stone, lime, terracotta, ect... As well as being natural and more ecological, these walls are generally poor in terms of thermal efficiency. This is why they usually have insulation put on them. The problems come when people put the wrong insulation (impermeable) on these walls. This effects the natural permeability of the walls and can cause damp and mould build up behind the insulation.
With the allergic reactions, respiratory problems and immune issues that come with mould, that’s definitely something you want to avoid.
The solution to this is the Remmers iQ Therm System or Power Protect. This systems were designed to be multifunctional systems that all moisture to travel through, prevent mould and thermal insulation.
Learn more about Remmers Breathable Insulation systems below: