What is Barrier Insulation?

Barrier insulation is insulation that is placed under concrete foundations or under a slab that is used to protect the home or building. In most cases, insulation is meant to help prevent heat loss or heat intrusion, depending on the season. That is a common use for barrier insulation as well. However, it can also serve a secondary purpose as a moisture barrier. As with any type of insulation, barrier insulation must protect from outside elements in order to make the home as efficient as possible. Traditionally, the underside of a home or building has not been insulated against the elements. However, as more emphasis is placed on total home efficiency, the underside has become more of an area of concern. The reason why under-slab insulation may be so important is due to the ground temperature in many parts of the world. For example, in the United States, ground temperatures average, throughout the entire year, approximately 55 degrees Fahrenheit (11 Celsius). Even in warmer climates, ...  more