What is the purpose of insulation in building performance?

Insulation plays a crucial role in building performance by primarily serving to reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. This is achieved through the use of materials that impede the flow of heat, thereby enhancing the energy efficiency of a building. When properly installed, insulation helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing the need for heating and cooling systems to work as hard as they might otherwise need to. This not only lowers energy costs for the occupants but also contributes to a more comfortable living environment.

While insulation can have ancillary benefits such as sound absorption, its primary function is focused on controlling temperature and improving energy efficiency. Unlike options that suggest promoting air circulation or serving decorative purposes, which do not align with the core function of insulation, the primary aim of insulation is to help manage heat transfer, making it an essential component in building performance standards and energy conservation efforts.