Dense Pack with Rigid Barrier

Detail ID 4.0302.3
Topic
Floors
Subtopic
Exposed Floors
Desired Outcome

Continuous, contiguous, safe, pest and weather resistant thermal boundary that prevents air movement @ 50 Pascals

SF Single Family Site-Built Housing
MH Manufactured Housing
MF Multifamily Housing

Specifications

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Verify that installation area is free of:

active water leaks, fuel leaks (i.e., gas, oil, propane), and pest intrusions

energized knob and tube wiring

uncovered electrical junctions

improperly terminated devices (ventilation fans, dryers, plumbing stacks, condensate lines, combustion appliance flues/chimneys, etc.)

high-temperature devices (non-IC rated recessed lights, chimneys, flues, vents, etc.) unless they are zero clearance devices

insulation escape openings

Verify that installation area is:

intact and able to support insulation weight and pressure

Ensure space can be safely insulated

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Select insulation that has a flame spread and smoke development index of 25/450 or less and backing material that has a smoke development index of 450 or less when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723

Select rigid backing material that:

is a permanent air barrier

will support installed insulation without failure

Select fire safe materials

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Select sealants that:

are compatible with their intended surfaces

allow for differential expansion and contraction between dissimilar materials

meet the requirements of the applicable fire safety code (e.g., thermal or ignition barriers)

Select safe and effective sealants

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Install airtight, rigid, blocking material at all cavity openings that aligns with the pressure boundary and will not fail under dense pack pressures

Prevent insulation gaps or voids

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Mechanically fasten a continuous rigid barrier to underside of floor assembly that is suitable to withstand weather, moisture, and pest contact, and with a fire-resistance rating equal to the resistance rating of the original floor assembly

Insulation protected from weather, pests, and moisture

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Fill 100% of each cavity to manufacturer's density requirements keeping insulation in full contact with the air barrier

Complete, consistent, and airtight insulation coverage

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Install closure system over all access holes that is airtight and permanent

Airtight, durable, access closure

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Seal all seams, joints, connections, penetrations, etc. in the rigid protective barrier with compatible sealant

Stuff any gaps larger than 1/4" with copper metal mesh or steel wool prior to sealing

Cover exposed corners of the rigid protective barrier with reinforced hardware cloth or metal board bead

Airtight, pest resistant exterior

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Apply a weather-resistant barrier to the exposed side of the insulation (e.g., exterior insulated finishing system and spray-on roof waterproofing over foam)

Protect insulation from weather, light and impact

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Post a dated receipt signed by the installer that minimally includes: Installed insulation type, coverage area, installed thickness, minimum settled thickness, installed R-value, and number of bags installed

Comply with 16 CFR 460.17 and document contract compliance

View Sub-Topic:
Exposed Floors
Next Detail:
SPF with Rigid Barrier