What is the main purpose of insulation in commercial buildings?

The primary purpose of insulation in commercial buildings revolves around improving energy efficiency and thermal comfort. Insulation acts as a barrier against the transfer of heat, keeping buildings warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. This not only enhances the comfort of the building occupants but also reduces the need for heating and cooling systems to work harder, leading to lower energy consumption and operating costs.

When insulation is installed correctly, it helps to regulate indoor temperatures, minimizing the influence of outside temperatures. This means that HVAC systems can operate more efficiently, as they don't need to compensate for as much heat loss or gain. This also contributes to sustainability practices, as buildings with efficient insulation typically have a smaller carbon footprint due to reduced energy use.

While soundproofing, humidity management, and fire resistance can be associated with insulation materials, they are secondary functions compared to the main role of enhancing energy efficiency and thermal comfort.