Christchurch
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We’ve been manufacturing in Hornby for 42 years. Pink® Batts® insulation is made locally by locals like Steven Deans, who want to help you rebuild right. And we’ve developed this information so when the time comes to rebuild or repair you can ensure your home remains fire safe, stays warm; and will save you energy and money.
Rebuilding
If you are rebuilding completely learn more about where to insulate and what level of insulation is recommended here
Repairing
4th March 2013: The Earthquake Commission (EQC) in collaboration with the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) has announced uninsulated earthquake damaged homes can now be insulated. Click here for more information
Follow the recommendations in this section and you’ll be on your way to a warmer more comfortable home.
Wall - If your walls require repair or relining
If your walls have been damaged you might want to consider removing and replacing the wall linings rather than simply repairing them. Walls are difficult to insulate once a home has been built. As insulation only became mandatory in 1978; depending on the age of your home chances are your walls are under insulated by today’s standards. While the linings are off you could:
External walls:
Increase the comfort and energy efficiency of your home by installing high R-value (R2.6 or R2.8) Pink® Batts® Ultra® insulation in your external walls.
If there is no building wrap you will also need to install one as a barrier for weather tightness. This will help prevent the insulation from absorbing any moisture that might run down your cladding (eg: bricks, weather board) and in some case maintain the existing cavity to ensure adequate ventilation.
Building Underlay Options
Internal Walls:
Create a quieter home - consider installing Pink® Batts® Silencer® wall insulation in all your interior walls especially around bathrooms and bedrooms.
Add more power points and update electrical wiring.
Position wall lamps and light switches where you need them.
Roof - Important safety, maintenance and efficiency checks
Chances are the earthquake may have moved your ceiling insulation. If you are confident about getting into your roof to check your insulation then look for the following; otherwise get a professional.
No gaps; reposition insulation which may have moved. Gaps as small as 2mm can reduce the insulation value by as much as 50%.
No leaks; get any leaks repaired and replace the affected insulation.
Insufficient clearances around downlights substantially increase the risk of fire. Make sure spaces around downlights have been maintained (refer to the clearance table below for specific details)
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Measure the thickness of your existing insulation to see that it meets current building code requirements. In the 1970’s ceiling was installed, but only very minimal amounts ( Equivalent to an R1.0 - R1.8 today), and in 2007 the New Zealand Building Code changed and Pink® Batts® suggested minimum roof insulation level for the South Island increased from R2.6 (140mm) to R3.6 (180mm) or higher depending on construction. If you are improving your insulation consider future proofing your house by installing Pink® Batts® Ultra® R4.0 or R5.0 ceiling insulation.
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Segment Image caption - Pink® Batts® Ultra® R5.0 ceiling insulation beside a low R-value R1.8
Floor - Maintenance checks
When things have settled down don’t forget to check under your floors. If you have existing insulation it may have moved and need refitting – small gaps have a big impact on performance. Around 10% of heat is typically lost through the floor if you have no insulation. A well installed layer of Pink® Batts® SnugFloor® underfloor insulation will help prevent cold draughts from penetrating the house.
