So, What Is The Big Deal With Continuous Insulation? Continuous insulation (CI) had been an energy code specification since ASHRAE 90.1-2004 was released but is unfortunately still a bit of a puzzle for many. ASHRAE 90.1 describes Continuous Insulation as insulation that is consistent throughout all structural elements except thermal bridges other than service openings and fasteners. It is installed on the exterior, interior, or is integral to any opaque surface of the building. So why do we need continuous insulation, besides complying with the building code? Thermal bridging through framing components decreases the efficiency of the insulation envelope in wood frame construction by 15-20 percent and in metal frame construction by 40 percent -60 percent. It means that a standard 6 metal stud wall construction with R-19 fiberglass batt insulation effectively performs at a dismal R-9. Upon proper installation of CI, you get the approximate maximum R-value of the insulation content. StarRFoams StarRStruc and StarRGard continuous insulation products help you towards the path of building high-performance buildings. The CI is installed indoors, outdoors, or is central to every opaque building surface. We notice with further research that the concept of "fasteners" is intended to include nails, bolts, screws, etc., which implies that the word "fasteners" excludes furring strips, clip angles, lintels, and other broad connection details. This is where the big problem lies and why the industry seems to be so confused. Many are still not informed about this vital aspect of CI. For example, masonry veneer wall construction typically employs steel relieving angles and steel lintels at window and door heads. These steel angles are usually fastened directly to the building structure, providing a significant thermal bridge from the interior of the building to the exterior. In summary, the proper use of continuous insulation is all about quality and paying attention to the details. At StarRFoam StarRGard Plus & StarRStruc Plus is manufactured using BASF Neopor Graphite Polystyrene. Unlike other Rigid Insulation products, StarRGard plus does not suffer from degrading R-Value over time and maintaining a stable R-Value over the life of the product. StarRGard Plus also serves as a resistive weather barrier when installed according to UES ER-572. For more information, call StarRFoam at 800-722-6218 or log on to www.starrfoam.com.