Energy efficiency and environmental responsibility are becoming increasingly significant in today's building practices, making thermal performance an important consideration. Although there are several ways to enhance thermal performance, when it comes to timber frame, steel frame and modular build-ups, using reflective membranes is among the most convenient and effective solutions.
Don & Low, the only vertically integrated UK construction membrane manufacturer, ensures outstanding results with Reflectashield® and Vapour TX® Thermo. Engineered to perform and made to last, these innovative reflective membranes represent the cornerstone of modern construction, where performance, durability and efficiency come together to shape a sustainable future. Both can be used to enhance the overall U-value or be integrated as a strategic component in project cost management to minimise the thickness or type of insulation.
Reflectashield® is a walling membrane for the cold side of the insulation, featuring a highly reflective aluminium foil lamination. Thanks to its low emissivity, Reflectashield® is ideal for unventilated airspace scenarios. Beyond its reflective properties, Reflectashield® offers a host of benefits that redefine conventional standards. Acting as a temporary weather-resistant covering until the final façade installation provides essential protection during construction. At the same time, its low vapour resistance aligns with BS5250 regulations, mitigating the risk of harmful condensation build-up within the frame.
Key Benefits of Reflectashield®:
- Excellent Thermal Resistance of 0.81m2K/W
- Provides a weather-resistant covering until the final façade has been installed
- Can be left exposed for 6-12 weeks by STA Advice Note 18
- Aids in complying with BS5250 and Part L
- Low vapour resistance aids in mitigating the risk of interstitial condensation
- Coated to ensure aluminium foil is resistant to corrosion and damage
- Durable product with high nail tear and tensile properties
- Independently 3rd party-certified by BM TRADA to ensure product performance
On the other end of the spectrum lies VapourTX® Thermo, an advanced vapour control layer (VCL) designed to optimize thermal efficiency across floors, walls and ceilings. Boasting a highly reflective aluminium foil lamination, VapourTX® Thermo excels in creating a low emissivity environment when faced with unventilated airspace. Positioned on the warm side of the insulation, this reflective membrane acts as an airtight barrier, reducing the risk of condensation build-up and ensuring compliance with BS5250 standards.
Key Benefits of VapourTX® Thermo:
- Excellent Thermal Resistance 0.79m2K/W
- Provides a complete air and vapour-tight barrier due to high air and vapour resistance
- It can be used to comply with BS5250 and Part L
- Suitable for use in PassivHaus and Net Zero Carbon projects
- Coated to ensure aluminium foil is resistant to corrosion and damage
- Durable product with high nail tear and tensile properties
- Independently 3rd party-certified by BM TRADA to ensure product performance
Ensuring easy identification, Reflectashield® comes with distinctive blue branding (for the cold side of the insulation), while VapourTX® Thermo is supplied with red branding (for the warm side of the insulation). For optimal thermal efficiency, Reflectashield® and VapourTX® Thermo can be paired. Additionally, Don & Low's Reflective Tape is a reliable repair solution in case of membrane damage during installation and on-site exposure.
Thanks to Don & Low's commitment to quality and excellence, the quest for superior thermal performance ends with Reflectashield® and VapourTX® Thermo. And that's precisely where a seamless customer experience begins.
Don & Low's team of qualified technical experts is always ready to provide reliable, honest advice on everything construction at no extra cost. So, if you seek assistance regarding U-Value calculations, product specifications, CAD drawings, detailing or installation, please call 0808 169 4444 or email membranes@donlow.co.uk.
