With increased insulation requirements in recent versions of the energy codes, continuous insulation on the roof can allow the owner to meet thermal insulation requirements in both low-slope roofs as well as cathedral ceilings and conditioned attics.

Tools & Education
Description

This research report provides a central location for the identification of foam sheathing products that have been approved for use as an air barrier material in an air barrier assembly. Available as a sealed code compliance report. 

Description

Low-slope roof general guidance. Intended to give a relatively brief introduction to roofing, to weigh pros and cons of various materials that are not available in other reference documents, and to provide some suggestions for enhancements beyond systems that simply comply with code and warranty minimums. 

Description

Details and information on the use of CI to avoid thermal bridges

Description

Steep-slope roof insulation above deck general guidance. Exterior insulation permits high R-value to be achieved without necessarily disturbing interior finishes.  The best time to implement this approach from a cost perspective is when an existing roof is being replaced.

Best Practices

Advice on insulating vented and unvented low-slope roofs applicable to both commercial and residential buildings. 

Choosing materials wisely is a good start. But success comes from careful attention to movement joints, intersections, and terminations.

Additional Information

Information on the use of Polyiso in roofing applications

Information on the use of XPS in commercial roofing applications

Information on the use of EPS in roofing applications