We’ve spent enough time out of character – whinging and moaning about other forms of insulation. Admittedly, there was somewhat of a method to the madness as one must understand the problem before appreciating the solution.
We sought to pique a tangent or two by asking intuitive questions and highlighting science that is often not part of the sales pitch for other forms of insulation. We’ve also yet to hone in on cellulose, which is a product that seems to be universally despised by installers.
Today, however, we thought it would be much more inspiring to talk about a solution to this whole mess. It is called Smart Walls and the initial launch will focus on Smart Walls for Smart Kids.
As previously mentioned, The Harvard School of Public Health makes it quite clear that there is a very real relationship between cognitive function and material surroundings. Of course, this is hugely important as it relates to output in the work place. We like to think it is even more important for learning centers, and we have a solution.
Along with our friends @foursevenfive High Performance Building Supply we have created the ‘smart wall’ and each of our organizations is wildly excited to roll it out in the school systems. The concept is simple. We use mento to replace Tyvek. It is air tight, vapor open to the outside. We then insulate with wool. It is all natural, manages moisture, does not mold, absorbs formaldehyde, NOx and SO2, and has higher rvalues than other insulation mediums – save foam, which, frankly, has no place in a classroom. To the inside of the cavity with blown wool is then a smart membrane called intello+. It is air tight vapor smart, which is to say it will release moisture (to the inside) at varying perm rates depending on the vapor drive and moisture levels. Inside the intello+ is a service cavity which has a wool batt. This is where the passive filtration piece can work best.
In sum, the wall layering from outside to inside would be as follows: Mento | Blown-wool | intello+ | wool batt. With 2x4s this would be a minimum r value of 28. If the exterior cavity is a 2×6 and the service cavity a 2×4 the r value would be 37. This is a healthy, long lasting, ‘smart’ wall system that would not only limit the toxic chemicals installed in the building but also allow for the absorption of those that are introduced from other materials.
We are launching the concept now and need help in spreading the word. Please ensure you or your kids have an opportunity to learn in the best possible air quality available in the built environment and contact us or 475 High Performance Building Supply to learn more.
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