Distributed thermal insulation: what is it?

Distributed thermal insulation (ITR) is one of the three main techniques ofinsulation intended to make a house energetically efficient. While the other two methods consist of isolating the frame from the inside (ITI) or from the outside (ITE), the ITR does not add any insulating to the walls. The supporting structure is built with self-insulating materials. This simplifies the implementation, while limiting the thermal bridges and the faults ofairtightness of the building envelope.

Distributed thermal insulation: which materials are suitable?

Monomaterials, or systems ” monomur », Are the pioneers of distributed thermal insulation in the construction masonry. Made from vertically honeycombed bricks, Aerated concrete, stone concrete pumice…, their insulating properties are due to the amount ofair trapped in their alveoli or cells and with strong paired thicknesses. It is thus necessary to use blocks of more than 35 cm, to reach or exceed the minimum thermal resistance fixed by the RT 2012 for the external walls. Let R ≥ 3.7 m2.K / W.

Distributed thermal insulation can also use composite blocks, sandwich or RTh type. Honeycomb brick, concrete of cement, made of lightweight concrete, they are completely or partially filled with Rockwool, of perlite, of expanded polystyrene… depending on the concept.

Pluri-materials for wood construction

A house built entirely in drink (solid and / or derivative) does not have the qualities of insulation andinertia sufficient thermal. To reach ITR standards, the structure is made by leaving voids that are filled with the advancement of natural materials, such as hemp or earthen mixed with wood chips or Straw. This booming sector is characterized by a wide variety of constructive solutions. But with sometimes very mixed results, in particular among self-builders who do not have the necessary technical knowledge and skills.