BY GIOVANNI SALVIETTI
We already looked at the Villa Solissimo (See VL Chianti and Valdelsa, Summer 2020) with them; in this issue we are going to learn of a technique that can bring great benefits even on a small scale, in single homes or condominiums. Thanks to a completely natural insulating material an apartment can become a warm winter nest and a cool summer home. Vera Radi and Alessandro Taddei of EDILPIÙ help us discover cellulose fibre in flakes.
The discovery of cellulose fibre dates back to 1830 in North America. It became quickly apparent this material showed excellent resistance over time. Modern technology has permitted the perfection and maximisation of its temperature and sound insulation qualities, and it is now one of the best materials available on the construction market.
Cellulose fibre is produced mainly from the processing of paper, new or recycled from newspapers shredded up and spun to render it like cotton wool. Mineral salts are added in the manufacturing process to make the product resistant to fire and insect damage. Being a natural product, it is highly breathable and has excellent hygrometric characteristics: it is able to absorb excess humidity from the environment and then release it in the driest periods. In this way, it promotes the healthiness of structures and well-being in homes and solves many issues with condensation and mould.
Cellulose fibre has a high thermal inertia value compared to other natural and synthetic insulators. In the technical jargon it is said to create a ‘thermal wave phase shift’ – it manages to slow heat transmission in such a way that, in summer, even in long hours of exposure to the sun it keeps interiors cool until the evening. In winter the same effect maintains a constant indoors temperature, drastically reducing heat dispersion.
In terms of ecology and urban regeneration this material represents an excellent, practical and ethical choice. EDILPIÙ sources it from Climacell, a German company whose production chain respects eco-sustainable origins with an excellent energetic footprint.
The application of the cellulose fibre is quick and simple. In most cases the operation, for an apartment of medium size, is accomplished in a day. It can be applied by being blown into cavities in the interspaces of walls or by making a simple inner lining wall. This technique is also very suitable for roof or attic insulation, where a uniform carpet is spread even in the areas that are difficult to reach. In other situations, however, a spray laying system is more suitable and allows the insulation layer to be adapted to the existing surface, compensating for any irregularities in the wall and then applying the plasterwork directly over the insulation.
Thanks to their fibrous structure, the flakes, once laid form a homogeneous layer which, in addition to excellent thermal insulation creates excellent air tightness and effective sound insulation. This type of internal insulation can solve longstanding problems in apartments, townhouses and condominiums where the construction of an outer coat may prove impractical. Insulation with cellulose fibre flakes is in fact an operation that does not involve changes to the building’s structure or appearance. In the case of condominiums, every single apartment can be insulated in a non-invasive way regardless of group decisions. Cellulose fibre offers important advantages both for those who live in the house, thanks to the considerable savings in heating and for the environment because it reduces consumption and is entirely eco-compatible. Finally, its use attracts state tax deductions for redevelopment and, in the appropriate municipalities, can take advantage of additional financial benefits. Indeed, due to its characteristics and the performance it achieves it is one of the most suitable materials for obtaining the energy improvement that allows you to take advantage of the tax credit of 65% (Ecobonus) or 110 % (Superbonus).
Cellulose fibre is therefore an ideal solution for energy efficiency and economic savings. You just have to ask Edilpiù about it who will be happy to advise you.
Info: EDILPIÙ di Vera Radi & C, Piazza Martiri di Montemaggio 21-23, Colle di Val d’Elsa (Si) / www.edilpiu-siena.it/ info@edilpiu-siena.it/ Tel. 0577 921087/ 335 5774293 (Vera)/ 335 5774292 (Alessandro)