Vacuum Insulated Panels for Roofing Applications

Vacuum Insulated Panels (VIPs) offer very effective insulation (achieving an R-value of 50) within a very slim profile, making them useful on roofs where adding bulk is costly. Researchers found that VIPs were robust if installed with care, and that R-50 insulation can offer favorable payback in one-story buildings in regions with extreme climates and high utility costs. View full-size infographic. [PDF - 235 KB]

GPG Findings 011, Vacuum Insulated Panels In Roofing Applications. Opportunity: How much energy is used for heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) in U.S. office buildings? 37% of energy goes to HVAC. A large percentage routinely escapes through the building envelope. Technology: How do VIPs save energy? R-50 insulation value within a thin profile, 1” compared to 15” for conventional. Measurement and Verification: Where did M and V occur? Oak Ridge National Laboratory evaluated the performance of a VIP retrofit at the US Post Office and Courthouse in Camden, New Jersey. Results: How did VIPs perform in M and V? 8-10% energy savings when compared to code-compliant roofs. Robust performance with proper planning. Savings for R-50 greatest in single-story buildings in extreme climates. Deployment: Where does M and V recommending deploying VIPs? Retrofits where R-50 is required and installing conventional insulation necessitates costly alterations. [PDF - 235 KB]


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Last Reviewed: 2019-12-02