Insulating with Rubber Floor Rolls: What You Need to Know

Introduction

Can you use rubber floor rolls as insulation? Yes, you can. Rubber floor rolls are excellent insulators, helping to prevent heat loss in homes and reducing energy bills.

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Quick answer:

• Yes, rubber floor rolls provide thermal insulation.
• Benefits: Energy savings, moisture barrier, long-lasting.
• Applications: Ideal for basements, gyms, and residential flooring.

Insulating your floor is often overlooked, but it&#;s crucial for maintaining a comfortable home. By using rubber floor rolls, you can create an effective thermal barrier, prevent moisture issues, and enjoy a safe, durable, slip-resistant surface. These benefits make rubber a top choice for homeowners looking to improve their home&#;s energy efficiency and comfort.

Hello, I&#;m Ronak Kothari. With over 15 years in digital marketing and extensive expertise in rubber surfacing, I aim to clear up any confusion surrounding can you use rubber floor rolls as insulation. Let&#;s dive deeper into why rubber flooring is a smart insulation choice.

Understanding Rubber Floor Rolls

Rubber floor rolls are a popular choice for a variety of applications, from gym floors to commercial spaces. But what exactly makes them so versatile and effective? Let&#;s break down their composition, types, and properties, with a special focus on EPDM rubber.

Composition

Rubber floor rolls are typically made from a mix of natural and synthetic rubber compounds. The most common compounds include:

• Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) Rubber: Known for its excellent durability and resistance to UV rays, EPDM is a synthetic rubber that&#;s widely used in flooring.
• Styrene Butadiene Rubber (SBR): Often made from recycled tires, SBR is another synthetic rubber that provides good abrasion resistance and is often used in heavy-wear applications.

These compounds result in a product that is durable, flexible, and resistant to a variety of environmental factors.

Types of Rubber Floor Rolls

There are several types of rubber floor rolls, each designed for specific uses:

• Standard Rubber Rolls: These are versatile and can be used in various settings, from home gyms to commercial spaces.
• Heavy-Duty Rubber Rolls: Designed for high-impact areas like gyms and workshops, these rolls offer extra thickness and durability.
• Textured Rubber Rolls: Available in patterns like coin or diamond plate, these rolls provide extra grip and are ideal for areas where slip resistance is crucial.

EPDM Rubber

EPDM rubber stands out as one of the most common compounds used in rubber flooring. Its unique properties make it an excellent choice for diverse applications:

• Durability: EPDM rubber is resistant to abrasion, tearing, and impacts, making it perfect for high-traffic areas.
• Thermal Insulation: With low thermal conductivity, EPDM helps maintain indoor temperatures, keeping spaces cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
• Moisture Resistance: EPDM is highly resistant to moisture and can withstand exposure to water without degrading.
• Flexibility: This rubber remains flexible at both very low and very high temperatures, ensuring it performs well in various conditions.

Properties

Rubber floor rolls come with a host of beneficial properties:

• Low Thermal Conductivity: Rubber&#;s tightly-bound electrons slow down heat transfer, making it an excellent thermal insulator.
• Electrical Insulation: The same property that makes rubber a good thermal insulator also makes it a good electrical insulator.
• Slip Resistance: The natural &#;spring&#; in rubber provides a comfortable, anti-slip surface.
• Sound Absorption: Rubber flooring can absorb sound, reducing noise levels in a room.
• Durability: Whether it&#;s EPDM or SBR, rubber flooring is built to last, even in high-traffic areas.

Rubber floor rolls are not just about durability and safety; they also offer aesthetic versatility. They can be dyed in a near-endless variety of colors and patterns, making them suitable for both functional and decorative purposes.

Rubber floor rolls are an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their space with a durable, safe, and aesthetically pleasing flooring option. Whether you&#;re outfitting a gym, a workshop, or a commercial space, rubber flooring offers a range of benefits that make it a smart investment.

Can You Use Rubber Floor Rolls as Insulation?

Thermal Insulation Capabilities

Rubber floor rolls have excellent thermal insulation capabilities due to their low thermal conductivity. This means they don&#;t easily transfer heat, making them effective at retaining warmth in the winter and keeping spaces cool in the summer.

The secret lies in the tightly-bound electrons in rubber. These electrons are not free to move around, which slows down heat transfer. This makes rubber a great insulator for both electricity and heat.

For instance, EPDM rubber, a popular type of rubber flooring, is known for its low conductivity. It helps maintain a stable indoor temperature, which can lead to significant energy efficiency. This means lower energy bills because your heating and cooling systems don&#;t have to work as hard.

Rubber flooring is also compatible with underfloor heating systems. This makes it an ideal choice for spaces where maintaining a comfortable temperature is crucial. Whether it&#;s a gym, workshop, or commercial interior, rubber flooring can help keep the environment comfortable year-round.

Electrical Insulation Benefits

Rubber is not just a thermal insulator; it&#;s also an excellent electrical insulator. The same properties that make it good at slowing down heat transfer also make it resistant to electrical conductivity.

This high resistance to electricity makes rubber flooring a safe option for environments where electrical safety is a concern. For example, in workshops and commercial spaces, rubber flooring can help prevent electrical accidents.

The safety benefits are significant. Because rubber doesn&#;t conduct electricity well, it reduces the risk of electrical shocks, making it a safer choice for areas with a lot of electrical equipment or wiring.

In summary, rubber floor rolls offer both thermal and electrical insulation benefits. They help maintain comfortable temperatures and provide a safer environment by reducing the risk of electrical accidents. This makes them a versatile and practical choice for a wide range of applications.

Comparing Rubber to Other Insulation Materials

When deciding on the best insulation material for your floor, compare rubber to other popular options like EVA foam, cork, and Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV). Each material has its pros and cons, especially regarding R-value, vapor barrier, moisture resistance, durability, shock absorption, cost, sound insulation, thermal properties, and installation.

Rubber vs. EVA Foam

R-Value and Thermal Properties: Both rubber and EVA foam offer insulation, but EVA foam generally has a slightly higher R-value, meaning it provides better thermal resistance. Greatmats&#; tests showed that EVA foam mats were 5-8 degrees warmer than concrete, while rubber tiles were 4-5 degrees warmer.

Vapor Barrier: Both materials act as effective vapor barriers, preventing moisture from seeping through. However, rubber is more durable and less prone to tearing or puncturing.

Moisture Resistance: EVA foam is closed-cell, making it highly moisture-resistant. Rubber also resists moisture well and is less likely to develop mold or mildew.

Durability: Rubber is more durable and can withstand heavy gym equipment and high foot traffic better than EVA foam. Gyms prefer rubber for its longevity and ability to handle heavy weights without damage.

Rubber vs. Cork

R-Value and Thermal Properties: Cork has a higher R-value compared to rubber, making it better for thermal insulation. However, it is not as effective at moisture resistance.

Shock Absorption: Cork excels in shock absorption, making it comfortable underfoot. Rubber also offers good shock absorption but is more durable under heavy loads.

Moisture Performance: Cork is susceptible to moisture and can deteriorate if exposed to damp conditions. Rubber, on the other hand, is impervious to moisture, making it a better choice for basements and other potentially damp environments.

Cost: Cork is generally more expensive than rubber. Given rubber&#;s durability and moisture resistance, it often provides better value for money.

Rubber vs. Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV)

Sound Insulation: MLV is specifically designed for soundproofing and is more effective than rubber in this regard. However, rubber still offers decent sound insulation, particularly in gym settings where noise reduction is important.

Thermal Properties: Rubber has better thermal insulation properties compared to MLV, which is primarily designed for soundproofing rather than thermal insulation.

Installation: Rubber flooring is easier to install than MLV. Rubber rolls can be laid down with adhesives or interlocking mechanisms, while MLV often requires more complex installation methods.

In summary, while rubber offers excellent durability, moisture resistance, and good thermal properties, EVA foam and cork provide better thermal insulation but at the cost of durability and moisture resistance. MLV excels in sound insulation but falls short in thermal properties and ease of installation.

Installation Tips for Rubber Floor Rolls

Subfloor Preparation

Before you start laying down rubber floor rolls, it&#;s crucial to prepare the subfloor properly. Whether your subfloor is concrete or wood, cleaning it thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or sharp objects is essential. This ensures a smooth surface for the rubber rolls and prevents potential damage.

For concrete subfloors, make sure they are dry and free of cracks. Any moisture can lead to problems like mold and mildew. If the concrete is damp, consider using a moisture barrier before laying the rubber flooring.

For wooden subfloors, check for any loose boards or nails that could protrude. Sand down any rough spots and ensure the surface is even. This helps in achieving a secure and level installation.

Adhesives and Vapor Barriers

Using the right adhesive is key to a successful rubber floor roll installation. Not all adhesives are suitable for rubber, so make sure to choose one that&#;s specifically designed for it. A good adhesive will ensure that the floor stays in place and does not shift over time.

Moisture Considerations: When dealing with moisture-prone areas, a vapor barrier is essential. This will prevent condensation from forming under the rubber floor, which can lead to mold and mildew issues.

Combining Materials: If you want to combine rubber with other insulating materials, like foam or cork, make sure to use a subfloor. For instance, you could place a layer of rigid foam insulation over the subfloor, followed by plywood or OSB, and then lay the rubber flooring on top. This method helps distribute the load and offers additional insulation.

Suitable Adhesives

When it comes to adhesives, water-based acrylic adhesives are often recommended for rubber flooring. These adhesives are strong, safe to use, and environmentally friendly. Make sure to follow the manufacturer&#;s instructions for application to ensure a secure bond.

Preventing Condensation: To prevent condensation, ensure that the subfloor is completely dry before applying the adhesive. You might also consider using a dehumidifier in the room for a few days before installation to remove any excess moisture from the air.

By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and effective installation of your rubber floor rolls, maximizing their insulating and protective benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions about Rubber Floor Rolls as Insulation

Is Rubber Flooring a Good Insulator?

Yes, rubber flooring is a good insulator. Rubber has low thermal conductivity, which means it doesn&#;t easily transfer heat. This makes it an excellent choice for maintaining indoor temperatures. The tightly-bound electrons in rubber slow down, preventing heat from passing through easily. This helps keep spaces warm in winter and cool in summer.

Rubber flooring is also safe and durable. Its natural springiness and anti-slip properties make it comfortable and secure underfoot. Plus, it&#;s resistant to stains and moisture, making it suitable for various environments like gyms, commercial interiors, and workshops.

What is the R-Value of Rubber Gym Flooring?

The R-value measures a material&#;s thermal resistance. While rubber isn&#;t traditionally known for high R-values compared to other insulation materials like fiberglass or foam, it still offers decent thermal resistance. The exact R-value can vary depending on the thickness and type of rubber used.

For instance, EPDM rubber flooring is popular in gyms due to its durability and thermal properties. It performs well in both high and low temperatures, making it compatible with HVAC systems and underfloor heating. This helps maintain optimal ambient temperatures, enhancing energy efficiency.

Can Rubber Flooring Be Used on Walls?

Yes, rubber flooring can be used on walls. This application can provide several benefits:

• Thermal Insulation: Rubber&#;s low thermal conductivity helps in maintaining indoor temperatures.
• Soundproofing: Rubber&#;s sound absorption properties make it ideal for reducing noise in busy areas.
• Durability: Rubber is resistant to impact, abrasion, and moisture, making it a long-lasting choice for wall applications.
• Safety: Its anti-slip properties can also enhance safety in areas prone to moisture, like bathrooms or kitchens.

Installation Tips:
&#; Surface Preparation: Ensure the wall surface is clean and dry before installation.
&#; Adhesives: Use suitable adhesives that are recommended for rubber to ensure a secure bond.
&#; Moisture Control: If installing in areas prone to moisture, consider using a vapor barrier to prevent condensation buildup.

By understanding these aspects, you can effectively use rubber flooring for insulation, whether on floors or walls, to enhance comfort and efficiency in your space.

Conclusion

When it comes to insulating with rubber floor rolls, Rubcorp stands out as a top choice. Our products offer numerous benefits, from enhanced thermal efficiency to durability and ease of maintenance.

Key Benefits:
&#; Thermal Efficiency: Rubber floor rolls have low thermal conductivity, helping to retain heat and reduce energy costs.
&#; Durability: Rubber is highly durable, making it a long-term investment. It can withstand heavy use and resist wear and tear.
&#; Safety: Rubber flooring is skid-resistant and provides cushioning, making it safer for homes with kids, pets, and seniors.
&#; Moisture Resistance: Rubber acts as a vapor barrier, preventing moisture buildup and protecting your floors from damage.

Final Thoughts:
Choosing rubber floor rolls for insulation is a smart move. They not only improve the comfort and safety of your space but also contribute to energy efficiency, potentially lowering your energy bills. If you&#;re considering upgrading your insulation, we highly recommend exploring our rubber floor insulation solutions.

Rubcorp is here to help you make an informed decision. Our team of experts is ready to assist you with any questions you may have. Don&#;t wait for the signs of poor insulation to become evident. Proactively improve your home&#;s comfort and efficiency with our high-quality rubber flooring options. Contact us today and take the first step towards a warmer, safer, and more energy-efficient home.

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Foam Insulation Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Next to a mortgage or car payment, utility bills are the large part of any household budget.  Energy reduction by installing foam insulation will pay dividends in lower energy bills and overall comfort.  The only three things that you can count on happening are Death, taxes and high energy bills.  If you are interested in retrofitting an existing home and are considering foam insulation call today. Below we have listed some of the most common questions regarding open cell foam insulation. 

Q: My energy bills are high, I doubt I have any or much insulation in the walls, how do I find out what insulation is in my walls?

A:  Inspect easy to see areas like the basement, crawl space and attic areas.   Inspect where the wall meets the foundation or roofline, look to see if you see any insulation.

The harder areas are actually looking into walls.  You can inspect a wall, destructively by going into a closet that has an outside wall and making a small home.  Many people will pull off the trim and access the wall through the trim.  This way, if your wall patch is not pretty, it will be hidden by putting the trim back.  Another wall inspection method is via an outlet.  

1. Turn off the power to the outlet.

2. Remove the outlet cover and using a bright flashlight, peer into the crack around the outlet box. You should be able to see if there is insulation in the wall and what type.

3. Pull out a small amount of insulation if needed to help determine the type of insulation.

4. Check outlets on all floors as well as old and new parts of your house. Just because you find insulation in one wall doesn't mean that it's everywhere in the house.

5. Inspect and measure the thickness (inches) of any insulation in the unfinished basement ceilings and walls, or above in crawlspaces.

6. Some neighbors have a similar constructed home to your own, it does not hurt to ask a neighbor what insulation they have in their home, it MAY be the same as yours.

7. Lastly, the homebuilder (if one can be found) or the original homeowner, might be able to tell you what insulation is present.

Q: Can foam insulation be installed from the exterior or exterior?

Want more information on rubber foam insulation? Feel free to contact us.

A: Foam insulation can be installed from either the outside or inside. Either way, holes must be drilled in the wall cavity to inject the foam.

Q: What is the foam insulation made of?

A: The foam has three primary ingredients, one being air, two a resin, and three a foaming agent (catalyst).  We call it ARC for short (Air Resin Catalyst).  When the three components meet at the time of injection, foam is made. 

Q: What is the R-value of open cell foam insulation?

 A: The R-value of foam depends on the thickness of the wall.  A 2&#; wall will have a lower R-value than a 6&#; wall. It varies depending on the size of the cavity. Generally speaking, a 3.5&#; wall can achieve an R-Value of 14, a 5.5&#; wall an R-Value of 22.  These are based on 16CFR460 using ASHRAE fundamental calculations. 

Q: Why use open cell foam insulation and not blown-in insulation?

A: Blown-in insulation is typically cellulose, shredded blue jeans or other material that can be placed with air into a wall.  Blown-in insulation can and will compress over time.  Moisture and gravity can and will weigh down the blown in insulation, thus over time compressing blown-in insulation and reducing the effectiveness of the insulation.  Foam is one and done, it will easily flow to voids, fill them.  Foam is virtually non shrinking.

Q:How long is a typical insulation project?

A: For a typical home, most jobs can be completed in a day. For commercial projects, including what people call big box stores, insulation can take up to a week.

Q: Do you need water and electric to apply foam insulation?

A: Our enclosed insulated foam trailers are self-powered, but since they are mobile and are not hooked up to water, a water source is required. We can supply mobile water tanks, but the use of onsite water is the most cost effective and all projects are quoted with the assumption that water will be supplied at no cost to Curren.

Q: What does foam insulation look and feel like? 

A: New foam is white, similar to shaving cream.  The foam can slightly darken over time.  The foam when injected is in a state of semi-fluid consistency, which is needed in order to flow through the wall cavity and flow evenly around obstructions in the wall, including wires and plumbing.  The foam will begin to dry almost immediately but fully cured foam takes between 24-28 days to cure. Once dry, it becomes firm, but will remain malleable.

Q: Is foam insulation reactive or corrosive?

A: No, the foam insulation will not react with plastic coated cabling/wiring.

Q: Can foam insulation cause dampness?

A: No the foam insulation is hydrophobic &#; meaning it repels water rather than absorbing it.    If subjected to water for a long period of time, such as from flooding, weather or water leaks, the foam can become water logged as it Is an open cell foam.

Q: Will the foam shrink and deteriorate over time? 

A: To a small degree, some initial shrinkage is normal but studies show that the foam will maintain its physical and insulation properties.

Q:Can foam insulation be applied to walls that have fiberglass installed?

A:Older fiberglass insulated walls are candidates for foam insulation; the foam will compress the existing insulation.

Q: Is it foam insulation flammable?

 A: No the foam insulation has a Class 1 fire/flame retardant.

Q: Does it open cell foam contain formaldehyde? 

A: No

Q: Is foam insulation environmentally safe?

A: Yes. It&#;s environmentally friendly. It&#;s non-toxic, odor free. Water and air are components of the foam, which makes it very safe.

 Q: OK, so the foam has water in it, will the foam cause mold?

A: Mold needs organic material and consistent moisture to grow, as well as 48 to 72 hours of moisture to start to grow.  The foam starts curing upon injection and will dry out before mold would be expected to grow on any wet surface.  As added protection, there are mold-inhibiting compounds in the foam to help ensure that mold will not grow. The partially open-cell nature of the foam means the insulation dries out quickly.  Once dry, RetroFoam&#; resists re-absorption of water.

Q: How is it known when the cavity is full of foam?

A: Experience, training, timing, methodical placement of the insertion holes, and a few tricks of the trade, the crew is able to ensure a cavity is full.  For practical purposes, most cavities will not be 100% filled as the cavity space can include utilities that prevent 100% application.

Q: Will you drill through/damage my siding, brick or masonry walls?

A: We will drill holes, inside or outside.  We need to drill holes to inject the foam.  That said we try to pull siding off across a horizontal plane and reset it.  Vinyl siding is easier than aluminum siding.  The goal is to leave your home as we found it, albite with invisible insulation in the walls.  However you may see some differences in the siding (cosmetic) due to the siding being removed and rest.  Regarding brick we try and drill along the mortar and patch with a similar color.   Masonry building such as stucco are drilled and patched; repainting is typically the responsibility of the owner.

RetroFoam, which is used to describe both the foam and the process, is in essence correcting poor older building practices where little or no insulation was installed in walls.   If current insulation standards were used when the structure was built, you would not need foam Insulation, so it should be expected that some visual evidence of the process can remain.

Q: How frequently spaced are the injection holes?

A: This will depend on the age and/or construction of your house, and should be discussed at the time of the estimate. Remember, if there is blown-in insulation in the walls, the install crew will drill two (2) 2 1/2&#; holes per cavity. On a standard install, there will be one (1) 2 1/2&#; hole every 16&#;.

Q: Will the open cell foam damage my interior walls?

A: No. It is a non-expanding foam, specifically designed for retrofitting purposes. As long as there are no pre-existing cracks or areas you&#;re concerned about, we shouldn&#;t have any problems. We ask that the inside of the house be accessible to our crew during the foaming process. That way we can monitor the interior of your home in case a problem arises. The crew member on the inside can communicate with the foam installer.  It is important for you to identify any areas you are concerned about so our crew leader can review them before installing the foam.  Areas of concern would be holes in the exterior walls being foamed, such utility penetrations.

Q: Will you paint my siding after the install? (Cedar/wood/composite board)

A: No. We&#;ll apply wood filler to wood/cedar/hardboard/composite siding, but the homeowner is responsible for paint touch-ups. 

Q: Will the mortar patch match the existing mortar?

A: We do our best. There may be a slight difference due to weathering, but on most homes, once the mortar patch dries the hole locations are difficult to identify. 

Q: Is it safe to fill the cavity of a brick veneer home&#; I thought there needed to be a ventilation space between the brick and wood framework?

A: A common misconception with brick construction is that the gap between the wood stud and brick surface is there for ventilation. This is partially correct, however the primary purpose of this gap is to keep moisture traveling through the brick, which is porous, from touching the wood and sheathing. If the wood is in contact with brick, it can absorb moisture, which can cause the wood to rot.  RetroFoam&#; is breathable, but also repels water.  The foam fills the cavity space providing a suitable thermal barrier, without transferring moisture to the wood.

Q: How do you install on a brick home?

A: By drilling ¾&#; holes through the T-joint in the mortar. Our trained install technicians are careful not to damage any of the brick/stone veneer. They will drill three holes per cavity; low, middle, high. They&#;ll install the foam from the bottom up. They&#;ll place a straw (marker) in the cavity directly above where they&#;re foaming. When the straw moves, the cavity has been adequately filled.

Q: How large of a cavity can you fill? 

A: Typically 6&#;.

Q: Can you work on a stucco/vertical [siding] exterior?

A: ONLY from the inside. [Unless you're planning to re-side.]

Q: Do you work on new houses, meaning before sheetrock is installed?

A: No. We recommend different products for new construction.

Q: Will it seal around my windows?

A: We will fill every cavity we can access. We can drill 3/4&#; holes around window frames. This is usually addressed on a case-by-case basis.

Q: How long will the job take?

A: Best determined on a case-by-case basis. We finish most jobs in a single day. If it requires more time, jobs are scheduled on consecutive days.

Q: Do I have to be home?

A: It is preferable but not necessary. We do ask that our crew have access to the home, especially to monitor for problems during the foaming process. We also check outlets once the drilling is complete.

Q: How much does it cost?

A: Our pricing varies depending on the style of home, location, current insulation, and siding type. We own and operate all our own equipment, by not using subcontractors we control the quality and the cost.  Each house is quoted on a case by case basis.

Q: Why should I have closed cell insulation installed in my walls?

A: The current insulation mindset is that exterior wall cavities should be insulated to reduce both heating and cooling costs as well as for occupant comfort.  Remember that fiberglass insulation, which is by far the most available and popular, was invented in . Many older homes have no insulation.  Some older homes had blown in insulation installed which is highly ineffective and compresses over time due to moisture and gravity so walls that had blown in insulation installed, will find that while the insulation may have been placed to the top of the cavity at time of installation, that the insulation will have dropped (compressed) over time due to gravity and moisture absorption.

Q: Is foam insulation a good investment? 

A: Installing any insulation is a home improvement, so yes you are investing in the home but bottom line you are improving the insulation quality of your home.   You should receive dividends so to speak in lower bills and a more comfortable living space.    When selling the home lower energy bills as compared to similar homes as well as a more insulated home can be selling features.

Questions?  Toll Free 888-301- Monday to Friday 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Curren Environmental, Inc. (Curren) is your foam insulation expert.  Servicing  Atlantic, Bergen, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Essex, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Salem, Somerset, Sussex, Union, and Warren Counties.

Are you interested in learning more about colorful rubber foam? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!