Solving tight-space insulation challenges with VIPs

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Versico’s Advanced R vacuum-insulated panels help contractors achieve required R-values when rooftop conditions limit insulation thickness. 

As older commercial buildings approach the next reroofing cycle, contractors can face a difficult challenge: finding ways to meet current insulation requirements on rooftops that were not designed to accommodate additional thickness. In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Karen Edwards spoke with Tom Swope of Versico about how vacuum-insulated panels (VIPs) can provide high thermal performance in a thin profile. 

Tom explained that the panels feature a glass wool core wrapped in foil. Air is then removed from the foil enclosure to create a vacuum before it is sealed, helping the panels achieve significant thermal performance in a thin profile. Tom shared, “These panels are able to achieve pretty impressive numbers, anywhere from R40 all the way up to R66 per inch.” By comparison, Tom noted that standard polyisocyanurate insulation provides about R5.7 per inch. 

That difference can be especially important when reroofing buildings designed for lower insulation requirements. Tom explained that contractors may need to bring an older building up to current code even when the rooftop cannot easily accommodate additional insulation. Tom noted, “There's a lot of scenarios, especially in metropolitan areas, where there might be penthouse doors, windows, through-wall scuppers or through-wall penetrations.” Modifying those conditions can be costly, time-consuming or impractical. 

While VIPs can help address space limitations, they require careful handling during installation. Tom cautioned, “If it's pierced, either with a knife while cutting or nicked with a fastener, you lose about 80% of the R-value.” 

To protect the panel, Versico recommends sandwiching it between high-density polyisocyanurate coverboards. Tom explained, “What that does is protect the panel from shifts and movement as buildings expand and contract.” Because the panels cannot be cut, contractors must use standard insulation as infill around penetrations, curbs and roof edges. 

Careful planning is essential to maintaining the required overall R-value. Versico’s technical team creates project-specific drawings that show where panels and infill should be placed. Tom stated, “They lay it out like a puzzle.” The team may also recommend different panel sizes to minimize infill while helping the system meet the building’s insulation requirements. 

Contractors installing the system for the first time can coordinate with a Versico representative or local field service representative for job-site support. Tom advised, “It's a great idea to have them on the job site, especially if it's your crew's first time installing them.” He also confirmed that the Advanced R panel is included in the Versico system warranty. 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the conversation to learn more about Versico’s Advanced R vacuum-insulated panels, installation resources and contractor support!