Conductor wall with internal/external insulation

In summary, the question is whether it is better to have styrofoam insulation on the inside or outside of a house. The answer is that in terms of maintaining a steady state temperature, it does not matter. However, having it on the inside means the interior does not have to provide additional heat or cooling, while having it on the outside means the walls act as a buffer. In practice, neither option is ideal and insulation is typically placed between walls or under floors, with variations such as a protective layer of wood or gypsum.
  • #1
Donna14
27
0

Homework Statement


Doing my homework I came across the question:
why it would be better to have styrofoam on the inside of the house
And why it could be better to have it on the outsideThe answer is
The steady state will be the same for both but
inside: warm and cold quickly
Outside: temperature will be more stableIm just not understanding why it is like this... Can someone explane this to me?
 
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  • #2
Typically schoolbook. What they are after: heating and cooling the house itself also requires heat. So with the insulation on the inside, the interior doesn't have to provide that heat (/cold). With the insulation on the outside, once the steady state is established, the house walls provide a buffer.

In practice nobody in his right mind has styrofoam on the outside: birds nest in it, it's vulnerable, etc. Inside idem: not sturdy enough. So isolate between walls or under floors, under roof tiles. But variations are imaginable: with a protective layer of wood or gypsum.
 

Related to Conductor wall with internal/external insulation

1. What is a conductor wall with internal/external insulation?

A conductor wall with internal/external insulation is a type of wall construction that includes a layer of insulation within or on the exterior of the wall, along with a conductive material such as metal. This combination helps to regulate the temperature inside a building and reduce energy consumption.

2. How does a conductor wall with internal/external insulation work?

The insulation in a conductor wall helps to block heat transfer through the wall, while the conductive material helps to distribute heat or cold evenly throughout the wall. This creates a more stable and comfortable indoor temperature, reducing the need for heating or cooling systems.

3. What are the benefits of using a conductor wall with internal/external insulation?

Some of the benefits of using this type of wall construction include improved energy efficiency, reduced utility costs, better temperature control, and increased comfort for building occupants. It can also help to reduce noise transmission and improve the overall durability of the building.

4. Are there any downsides to using a conductor wall with internal/external insulation?

Some potential downsides to consider include the initial cost of installation, as well as the potential for moisture buildup within the wall if the insulation is not properly installed or maintained. It's important to carefully consider the specific needs and requirements of a building before deciding on this type of wall construction.

5. How can I determine if a conductor wall with internal/external insulation is right for my building?

The best way to determine if this type of wall construction is suitable for your building is to consult with a professional engineer or architect. They can assess the specific needs and characteristics of your building and make recommendations for the most effective and efficient insulation options.

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