Ultratouch Thermal Ratings

Thermal ratings are expressed as R-Value for insulation and other building materials. R stands for "Resistance". It is a measure of a material’s ability to resist change in temperature from one side of the surface, through the depth, to the other side. Independent laboratory tests have proven UltraTouch’s high performance in meeting the criteria for the tested R-Values.

Mass-Enhanced R-Value:
Mass and density of a wall system, to include the insulation, has a big effect on R-Value under real world conditions. Wind washing, poor structural sealing and low density insulations allow heat to conduct from the warm side into the material and gradually move through it to the colder side. At 1.24 lbs/cubic foot, UltraTouch is the densest insulating material available.

Insulation Characteristics to keep in mind:

Weather and temperature generally effect the overall performance, and can result in the rated R value being higher than the actual effective R value.
Ratings should be done by an independent laboratory
R-value is a measurement of heat flow per inch
R-value performance is rated in a 70 degree Fahrenheit environment with no air movement
R-value is substantially lowered with unsealed air or water and moisture openings

Energy Star Performance
Proper sealing of wall and stud penetrations is key to providing a tight building. Proper installation of insulation is also key to maximizing performance of any product, including UltraTouch. If properly installed, it has these characteristics:

No compression, full thickness. Full bay, fit by friction with no scalloped edges
Free of voids, fits around and behind all utility pipes, wires and boxes
Touches on all 6 sides
Compatible with the surrounds
Combines with air barrier when required by code
Not subject to wetting

Useful Links
Idaho Power
Energy Star
NorthWest Energy Star
Idaho Energy Star Builders