1.Why is insulation necessary? 

Thermal insulation reduces heat gain or loss, having a direct impact on the internal comfort of a house or building. In addition, it also reduces sound transmission. 

2. Is thermal insulation compulsory in South Africa? 

Yes. In September 2011 the Department of Trade and Industry published an amendment to the National Building Regulations to introduce requirements for energy usage in buildings. Since 2011 all new buildings and extensions, in certain building occupancy classes, must comply with the new regulation.  

3. How much insulation is necessary to comply with the Regulation? 

SANS 10400-XA: 2021 Edition 2 Energy usage in buildings, gives clear minimum deemed-to-satisfy requirements to comply with the regulation according to the different energy zones. 

4. What are energy zones? 

The energy zone indicates the energy demand for heating and cooling a building to bring thermal comfort. 

 5. What is an R-value? 

An “R-value” indicates the effectiveness of a material to resist the heat flow. It is also referred to as the “thermal resistance.” The higher the R-value, the better the insulation. 

6. Where does one get the R-value of a product? 

The insulation manufacturer is required to have the product tested to SANS 8301 to determine the thermal resistance of the product. The R-value must be printed on the product specification or data sheet as well as the packaging. 

7. What is the best type of insulation? 

There are many types of insulation to choose from; however, the R-value is a direct, standardised comparison of insulation effectiveness.  

There may be some other factors that influence one’s choice of insulation product, for example the product must be suitable for the application for instance no combustible insulation materials are allowed in certain building occupancies, as an example, hospitals. Other challenges might be limited roof space or other installation difficulties, etc. 

8. Is it true that only non-combustible insulation materials must be used? 

No. SANS 10400-T:2024 Edition 5 Fire protection provides the required reaction to fire classifications for insulation products in the various building occupancy classes as well as multiple storeys. 

9. Are contractors allowed to change specifications? 

No. The regulation is clear when it comes to plan approvals. Any person who, having obtained approval in terms of the Act for the erection of any building, deviates to any material degree from any plan, drawing or particulars approved by the local authority shall, except where such deviation has been approved, be guilty of an offence. 

10. There is a lot of conflicting information about insulation from different suppliers. Who does one believe? 

The insulation market is very competitive, and there are many claims regarding the relative performances and safety of various products. 

We suggest when selecting insulation, ensure that the material conform to the South African National Building Regulations, i.e. 

• is it appropriate for the intended occupancy or building classification in accordance with SANS 10400 Part A General requirements, 
• does it comply with the fire safety requirements in accordance with SANS 10400-T Fire protection and has it been tested and classified in accordance with SANS 53501-1. 
• does it comply with the recommended R-value for the relevant energy zones in accordance with SANS 10400-XA Energy usage in buildings. 

When in doubt, contact the Thermal Insulation Products and Systems Association SA (TIPSASA): 

Tel: (012) 663 1480 

Website: www.tipsasa.co.za