USACE / NAVFAC / AFCESA / NASA UFGS-07 21 16 (April 2006)
------------------------------
Preparing Activity: NAVFAC Replacing without change
UFGS-07212 (August 2004)
UNIFIED FACILITIES GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS
References are in agreement with UMRL dated January 2009
SECTION 07 21 16
MINERAL FIBER BLANKET INSULATION
04/06
NOTE: This guide specification covers the requirements for mineral fiber blanket
thermal insulation in attics, ceilings, walls, and floors.
Edit this guide specification for project specific requirements by adding, deleting,
or revising text. For bracketed items, choose applicable items(s) or insert
appropriate information.
Remove information and requirements not required in respective project, whether
or not brackets are present.
Comments and suggestions on this guide specification are welcome and should
be directed to the technical proponent of the specification. A listing of technical
proponents, including their organization designation and telephone number, is
on the Internet.
Recommended changes to a UFGS should be submitted as a Criteria Change Request
(CCR).
NOTE: This guide specification is intended for both retrofit of existing buildings
and new construction.
NOTE: On the drawings, show:
1. Locations where insulation will be used.
2. Thermal resistance value (R-Value) for each location.
3. Location of vapor retarder, if required.
4. Location and size of attic ventilation openings where required.
NOTE: Attic Ventilation
1. Provide net, unobstructed ventilation areas to attics over insulated ceilings
as recommended by ASHRAE Handbook of Fundamentals, Chapter 21 and as follows:
2. For attics with vapor retarder, provide 0.1 square meter one square foot
of net ventilation area for each 30 square meters 300 square feet of attic
floor area.
3. For attics without vapor retarder, provide 0.1 square meterone square foot
of net ventilation area for each 15 square meters 150 square feet of attic
floor area.
4. For insulation of cathedral ceilings, provide at least a 50 mm 2 inch gap
between upper face of insulation and underside of roof sheathing. Provide ventilation
openings at bottom and top of ventilated cavity; show on drawings.
NOTE: Develop and specify density, type of material, and thickness of mineral
fiber blanket insulation used for sound control based on acoustic analysis.
For reduction of sound transmission through walls, select a blanket thickness
13 mm 1/2 inch greater than the wall cavity. Edit this specification accordingly.
PART 1 GENERAL
1.1 REFERENCES
NOTE: This paragraph is used to list the publications cited in the text of
the guide specification. The publications are referred to in the text by basic
designation only and listed in this paragraph by organization, designation,
date, and title.
Use the Reference Wizard's Check Reference feature when you add a RID outside
of the Section's Reference Article to automatically place the reference in the
Reference Article. Also use the Reference Wizard's Check Reference feature
to update the issue dates.
References not used in the text will automatically be deleted from this section
of the project specification when you choose to reconcile references in the
publish print process.
The publications listed below form a part of this specification to the extent referenced. The publications are
referred to within the text by the basic designation only.
[ASTM INTERNATIONAL (ASTM)ASTM C 665(2006) Mineral-Fiber Blanket Thermal Insulation for Light Frame Construction and Manufactured HousingASTM C 930(2005) Potential Health and Safety Concerns Associated with Thermal Insulation Materials and AccessoriesASTM D 3833/D 3833M(1996; R 2006) Water Vapor Transmission of Pressure-Sensitive TapesASTM D 4397(2008) Standard Specification for Polyethylene Sheeting for Construction, Industrial, and Agricultural ApplicationsASTM D 828(1997; R 2002) Tensile Properties of Paper and Paperboard Using Constant-Rate-of-Elongation ApparatusASTM E 136(2004) Behavior of Materials in a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750 Degrees CASTM E 84(2008a) Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building MaterialsASTM E 96/E 96M(2005) Standard Test Methods for Water Vapor Transmission of Materials][NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION (NFPA)NFPA 211(2006) Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel-Burning AppliancesNFPA 31(2006; Errata 2006; Errata 2007) Installation of Oil Burning EquipmentNFPA 54(2008) National Fuel Gas CodeNFPA 70(2007; AMD 1 2008) National Electrical Code - 2008 Edition][TECHNICAL ASSOCIATION OF THE PULP AND PAPER INDUSTRY (TAPPI)TAPPI T803 OM(2006) Puncture Test of Container Board][U.S. NATIONAL ARCHIVES AND RECORDS ADMINISTRATION (NARA)29 CFR 1910.134Respiratory Protection]1.2 SUBMITTALS
NOTE: Review submittal description (SD) definitions in Section 01 33 00 SUBMITTAL
PROCEDURES and edit the following list to reflect only the submittals required
for the project. Submittals should be kept to the minimum required for adequate
quality control.
A “G” following a submittal item indicates that the submittal requires Government
approval. Some submittals are already marked with a “G”. Only delete an existing
“G” if the submittal item is not complex and can be reviewed through the Contractor’s
Quality Control system. Only add a “G” if the submittal is sufficiently important
or complex in context of the project.
For submittals requiring Government approval on Army projects, a code of up
to three characters within the submittal tags may be used following the "G"
designation to indicate the approving authority. Codes for Army projects using
the Resident Management System (RMS) are: "AE" for Architect-Engineer; "DO"
for District Office (Engineering Division or other organization in the District
Office); "AO" for Area Office; "RO" for Resident Office; and "PO" for Project
Office. Codes following the "G" typically are not used for Navy, Air Force,
and NASA projects.
Choose the first bracketed item for Navy, Air Force and NASA projects, or choose
the second bracketed item for Army projects.
Government approval is required for submittals with a "G" designation; submittals not having a "G" designation
are [for Contractor Quality Control approval.][for information only. When used, a designation following the
"G" designation identifies the office that will review the submittal for the Government.] The following shall
be submitted in accordance with Section 01 33 00 SUBMITTAL PROCEDURES:
SD-03 Product Data
Blanket insulation
Sill sealer insulation
Vapor retarder
Pressure sensitive tape
Accessories
SD-08 Manufacturer's Instructions
Insulation
1.3 DELIVERY, STORAGE, AND HANDLING
1.3.1 Delivery
Deliver materials to site in original sealed wrapping bearing manufacturer's name and brand designation, specification
number, type, grade, R-value, and class. Store and handle to protect from damage. Do not allow insulation materials
to become wet, soiled, crushed, or covered with ice or snow. Comply with manufacturer's recommendations for
handling, storing, and protecting of materials before and during installation.
1.3.2 Storage
Inspect materials delivered to the site for damage; unload and store out of weather in manufacturer's original
packaging. Store only in dry locations, not subject to open flames or sparks, and easily accessible for inspection
and handling.
1.4 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
1.4.1 Respirators
Provide installers with dust/mist respirators, training in their use, and protective clothing, all approved by
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)/Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) in
accordance with 29 CFR 1910.134.
1.4.2 Smoking
Do not smoke during installation of blanket thermal insulation.
1.4.3 Other Safety Concerns
Consider other safety concerns and measures as outlined in ASTM C 930.
PART 2 PRODUCTS
2.1 BLANKET INSULATION
NOTE: Fire Safety Requirements
1. Most vapor retarder materials and the binder used in some mineral fiber
insulations are combustible. Do not leave such material exposed to accessible
spaces, but cover with fire retardant finish.
2. See MIL-HDBK-1008, and local building code for fire retardant classifications
required, flame spread and smoke developed ratings, and other fire protection
requirements, such as finish materials required in various occupancies.
ASTM C 665, Type [I, blankets without membrane coverings] [and] [II, blankets with non-reflecting coverings]
[and] [III, blankets with reflective coverings]; Class [A, membrane-faced surface with a flame spread of 25 or
less] [B, membrane-faced surface with a flame propagation resistance; critical radiant flux of 0.12 W/m2 0.11
Btu/ft2 or greater], except a flame spread rating of [25] [75] [100] or less [and a smoke developed rating of
150 or less] when tested in accordance with ASTM E 84.
2.1.1 Thermal Resistance Value (R-VALUE)
NOTE: Select R-Value for Thermal Insulation required to meet the energy target/budget
as indicated in MIL-HDBK-1190, Facility Planning Design Guide. Preferably show
R-Value on drawings. If R-Values are not shown on drawings, specify here.
As indicated
2.1.2 Recycled Materials
Provide Thermal Insulation containing recycled materials to the extent practicable, provided the material meets
all other requirements of this section. The minimum required recycled materials content by weight are:
Rock Wool: 75 percent slag
Fiberglass: 20 to 25 percent glass cullet
2.1.3 Prohibited Materials
Do not provide asbestos-containing materials.
[2.2 SILL SEALER INSULATION
ASTM C 665, Type I.
]2.3 BLOCKING
Wood, metal, unfaced mineral fiber blankets in accordance with ASTM C 665, Type I, or other approved materials.
Use only non-combustible materials meeting the requirements of ASTM E 136 for blocking around chimneys and heat
producing devices.
[2.4 VAPOR RETARDER
NOTE:
1. Determine the need for a water vapor retarder and its required permeance
value based on a project and climate specific moisture analysis. For guidance
see ASHRAE Handbook of Fundamentals, Chapter 20, "Thermal Insulations and Vapor
Retarders;" ASTM C 755, "Selection of Vapor Retarders for Thermal Insulations;"
and MIL-HDBK-1011/1, "Tropical Engineering" (for humid climates). The computer
Program "MOIST" which is on CCB, is a user friendly tool based on hourly weather
data that provides information on moisture content of materials and on the duration
of high moisture content excursions. Traditionally, vapor retarders were considered
materials having a permeance of 5.72 x 10-8 g/Pa.s.m2 1 perm (grain/h*ft2*in.Hg)
or less. However, that value may not be adequate for the particular construction
or climate and in some instances a much lower value should be specified.
2. Vapor retarders, where required, can be provided as membranes or, alternatively,
vapor retardant finishes labeled by manufacturer as having a water vapor permeance
of no more than the required value can be used. Alternate materials include:
Paints, vinyl wall coverings, or foil-faced gypsum board. Specify these in
Sections 09 90 00, PAINTS AND COATINGS, Section 09 72 00, WALLCOVERINGS, or
Section 09 29 00, GYPSUM BOARD, respectively and delete all paragraphs and references
relating to vapor retarders from this section.
3. A vapor retarder is only effective if it prevents diffusion of water vapor
as well as the passage of moisture laden air through openings and around material.
Accordingly, proper installation to assure air tightness by sealing of joints,
tears, and around utility penetrations is as important as proper selection of
water vapor retarder materials.
4. Vapor retarders not only retard movement of water vapor into building envelope
cavities, but also retard drying out of moisture that may have infiltrated the
cavity. Accordingly, use vapor retarders only where their need is indicated
by the moisture analysis.
[a. 0.15 mm 6 mil thick polyethylene sheeting conforming to ASTM D 4397 and having a water vapor
permeance of 5.72 x 10-8g/Pa.s.m2 1 perm or less when tested in accordance with ASTM E 96/E 96M
.]
[b. Membrane with the following properties:
Water Vapor Permeance: ASTM E 96/E 96M: [5.72 x 10-8] [_____] g/Pa.s.m2 [1] [_____] perm
[Maximum Flame Spread: ASTM E 84: [25] [50] [_____]]
[Combustion Characteristics: Passing ASTM E 136]
[Puncture Resistance: TAPPI T803 OM: [15] [25] [50]]
[Tensile Strength: ASTM D 828: [15] [20] [35]]]
]2.5 PRESSURE SENSITIVE TAPE
As recommended by the vapor retarder manufacturer and having a water vapor permeance rating of 5.72 x 10-8 g/Pa.s.m2
one perm or less when tested in accordance with ASTM D 3833/D 3833M.
2.6 ACCESSORIES
2.6.1 Adhesive
As recommended by the insulation manufacturer.
2.6.2 Mechanical Fasteners
Corrosion resistant fasteners as recommended by the insulation manufacturer.
2.6.3 Wire Mesh
Corrosion resistant and as recommended by the insulation manufacturer.
PART 3 EXECUTION
3.1 EXISTING CONDITIONS
Note: For retrofit projects, inspect facility to determine conditions which
may adversely affect execution of work or create safety hazard. Identify relevant
conditions on the drawings and, if required, develop additional specification
sections for corrective actions. Conditions that warrant investigation:
1. Discolorations or mold growth indicating previous water leaks.
2. Heat producing devices, such as recessed lighting fixtures, chimneys, and
flues.
3. Faulty electrical systems:
(a) Lights dimming or flickering
(b) Fuses blowing
(c) Circuit breakers tripping frequently
(d) Electrical sparks and "glowing" from receptacles
(e) Cover plates on switches and outlets warm to touch.
Before installing insulation, ensure that areas that will be in contact with the insulation are dry and free
of projections which could cause voids, compressed insulation, or punctured vapor retarders. If moisture or
other conditions are found that do not allow the workmanlike installation of the insulation, do not proceed but
notify Contracting Officer of such conditions.
3.2 PREPARATION
3.2.1 Blocking at Attic Vents and Access Doors
Prior to installation of insulation, install permanent blocking to prevent insulation from slipping over, clogging,
or restricting air flow through soffit vents at eaves. [Install permanent blocking around attic trap doors.]
[Install permanent blocking to maintain accessibility to equipment or controls that require maintenance or adjustment.]
3.2.2 Blocking Around Heat Producing Devices
Install non-combustible blocking around heat producing devices to provide the following clearances:
a. Recessed lighting fixtures, including wiring compartments, ballasts, and other heat producing
devices, unless these are certified by the manufacturer for installation surrounded by insulation:
75 mm 3 inches from outside face of fixtures and devices or as required by NFPA 70 and, if
insulation is to be placed above fixture or device, 600 mm 24 inches above fixture.
b. Masonry chimneys or masonry enclosing a flue: 50 mm 2 inches from outside face of masonry.
Masonry chimneys for medium and high heat operating appliances: Minimum clearances required
by NFPA 211.
c. Vents and vent connectors used for venting the products of combustion, flues, and chimneys
other than masonry chimneys: Minimum clearances as required by NFPA 211.
f. Gas Fired Appliances: Clearances as required in NFPA 54.
g. Oil Fired Appliances: Clearances as required in NFPA 31.
Blocking around flues and chimneys is not required when insulation blanket, including any attached vapor retarder,
passed ASTM E 136, in addition to meeting all other requirements stipulated in Part 2. Blocking is also not
required if the chimneys are certified by the manufacturer for use in contact with insulating materials.
3.3 INSTALLATION
3.3.1 Insulation
Install and handle insulation in accordance with manufacturer's instructions. Keep material dry and free of
extraneous materials. Ensure personal protective clothing and respiratory equipment is used as required. Observe
safe work practices.
3.3.1.1 Electrical wiring
Do not install insulation in a manner that would sandwich electrical wiring between two layers of insulation.
3.3.1.2 Continuity of Insulation
Install blanket insulation to butt tightly against adjoining blankets and to studs, rafters, joists, sill plates,
headers and any obstructions. [Where insulation required is thicker than depth of joist, provide full width
blankets to cover across top of joists.] Provide continuity and integrity of insulation at corners, wall to
ceiling joints, roof, and floor. Avoid creating thermal bridges.
3.3.1.3 Installation at Bridging and Cross Bracing
NOTE: Specify only unfaced blankets in installations with bridging and cross
bracing. If a vapor retarder is required, specify a separate vapor retarder.
Insulate at bridging and cross bracing by splitting blanket vertically at center and packing one half into each
opening. Butt insulation at bridging and cross bracing; fill in bridged area with loose or scrap insulation.
[3.3.1.4 Cold Climate Requirement
Place insulation to the outside of pipes.
][3.3.1.5 Insulation Blanket with Affixed Vapor Retarder
Locate vapor retarder as indicated. Do not install blankets with affixed vapor retarders unless so specified.
Unless the insulation manufacturer's instructions specifically recommend not to staple the flanges of the vapor
retarder facing, staple flanges of vapor retarder at 150 mm 6 inch intervals flush with face or set in the side
of truss, joist, or stud. Avoid gaps and bulges in insulation and "fishmouth" in vapor retarders. Overlap both
flanges when using face method. Seal joints and edges of vapor retarder with pressure sensitive tape. Stuff
pieces of insulation into small cracks between trusses, joists, studs and other framing, such as at attic access
doors, door and window heads, jambs, and sills, band joists, and headers. Cover these insulated cracks with
vapor retarder material and tape all joints with pressure sensitive tape to provide air and vapor tightness.
][3.3.1.6 Insulation without Affixed Vapor Retarder
Provide snug friction fit to hold insulation in place. Stuff pieces of insulation into cracks between trusses,
joists, studs and other framing, such as at attic access doors, door and window heads, jambs, and sills, band
joists, and headers.
]3.3.1.7 Sizing of Blankets
Provide only full width blankets when insulating between trusses, joists, or studs. Size width of blankets for
a snug fit where trusses, joists or studs are irregularly spaced.
[3.3.1.8 Special Requirements for Ceilings
Place insulation under electrical wiring occurring across joists. Pack insulation into narrowly spaced framing.
Do not block flow of air through soffit vents. [Attach insulation to attic door by adhesive or staples.]
][3.3.1.9 Installation of Sill Sealer
Size sill sealer insulation and place insulation over top of masonry or concrete perimeter walls or concrete
perimeter floor slab on grade. Fasten sill plate over insulation.
][3.3.1.10 Special Requirements for Floors
Hold insulation in place with corrosion resistant wire mesh, wire fasteners, or wire lacing.
][3.3.1.11 Access Panels and Doors
Affix blanket insulation to access panels greater than one square foot and access doors in insulated floors and
ceilings. Use insulation with same R-Value as that for floor or ceiling.
][3.3.2 Installation of Separate Vapor Retarder
Apply continuous vapor retarder as indicated. Overlap joints at least 150 mm 6 inches and seal with pressure
sensitive tape. Seal at sill, header, windows, doors and utility penetrations. Repair punctures or tears with
pressure sensitive tape.
]