R-values for Timber-framed

Building Elements
WoodSolutions is an industry initiative designed to provide independent, non-proprietary information
about timber and wood products to professionals and companies involved in building design and
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WoodSolutions is resourced by Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA – www.fwpa.com.au).
It is a collaborative effort between FWPA members and levy payers, supported by industry bodies
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This work is supported by funding provided to FWPA by the Commonwealth Government.
ISBN 978-1-921763-46-5
Prepared by:
Dr Terry Williamson
School of Architecture, Landscape Architecture and Urban Design
The University of Adelaide

Edition 3.0
First published: June 2002, revised: June 2007, July 2012

Acknowledgements
Thanks to Dr Helen Bennetts, Dr Angelo Delsante (CSIRO) and Paul Riordan who assisted in the
preparation of this publication; and Sustainability Victoria [formerly the Sustainable Energy Authority
(Victoria)] for providing and allowing the reproduction of various building element images.

© 2012 Forest and Wood Products Australia Limited. All rights reserved.
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 Contents
Introduction 4

Notes on the Calculation of R-Values 4

Changes in Edition 3.0 5
Material Properties and Construction and Other Details 5
Resistances of Air Films, Air Space and Attic Spaces 5
Ventilation 5
Calculation Method for Floors 5
References 8
Cavity Disconnected Detail 9
Things to Consider 10

Pitched Roof, Flat Ceiling 11

Explanation of Tables 12
R1. Pitched Roof, Flat Ceiling, (without and with) Bulk Insulation Between Joists 13
R2. Pitched Roof, Reflective Foil Laminate (RFL), Flat Ceiling, (without and with) Bulk Insulation Between Joists 14
R3. Pitched Roof, Flat Ceiling, Bulk Insulation Between Joists, Concertina RFL on Top of Bulk Insulation 15
R4. Pitched Roof, Thermo-Cellular Reflective Insulation, Flat Ceiling, (without and with) Bulk Insulation Between Joists 16
R5. Pitched Roof, Flat Ceiling, Rigid Bulk Insulation Over Joists 17
R6. Pitched Roof, Flat Ceiling, Concertina RFL Between Joists 18
R7. Metal Roof, Ceilings with Exposed Rafters, Foil-backed Blanket or Thermo-cellular Reflective Insulation 18
R8. Metal Roof, Ceilings with Exposed Rafters, Bulk Insulation & RFL 19
R9. Tiled Roof, Ceilings with Exposed Rafters, Bulk Insulation 19
R10. Tiled Roof, Ceilings with Exposed Rafters, Foil-backed Polystyrene Board Insulation 20
R11. Metal Roof, Raked Ceiling with Concealed Rafter, RFL, (without and with) Bulk Insulation 20
R12. Tile Roof, Raked Ceiling with Concealed Rafter, Bulk Insulation 21
R13. Metal Roof, Raked Ceiling with Concealed Rafter, Thermo-cellular Reflective Insulation,
(without and with) Bulk Insulation 21
R14. Tile Roof, Raked Ceiling with Concealed Rafter, Thermo-cellular Reflective Insulation,
(without and with) Bulk Insulation 22

Timber-framed Walls 23

Explanation of Tables 24
W1. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, R1.5 Bulk Insulation Between Studs 25
W2. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, R2.0 Bulk Insulation Between Studs 25
W3. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, R2.0 Bulk Insulation Between Studs, Insulated Plasterboard 26
W4. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, R2.5 Bulk Insulation Between Studs 26
W5. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, Breathable Building Membrane,
R1.5 Bulk Insulation Between Studs 27
W6. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, Breathable Building Membrane,
R2.0 Bulk Insulation Between Studs 27
W7. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, Breathable Building Membrane,
R2.5 Bulk Insulation Between Studs 28
W8. Timber-framed Walls, Weatherboard, Plywood or Fibre-cement Cladding, R1.5 Bulk Insulation 28
W9. Timber-framed Walls, Weatherboard, Plywood or Fibre-cement Cladding, R2.0 Bulk Insulation 29
W10. Timber-framed Walls, Weatherboard, Plywood or Fibre-cement Cladding, R2.5 Bulk Insulation 29
W11. Timber-framed Walls, Weatherboard, Plywood or Fibre-cement Cladding, R3.2 Bulk Insulation 30
W12. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, 10 mm Foil-backed Insulation Board Across Studs 30

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 1

 Contents
W13. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, 15 mm Foil-backed Insulation Board Across Studs 31
W14. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, R2.0 Bulk Insulation Between Studs,
10 mm Insulation Board Across Studs 31
W15. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, R2.0 Bulk Insulation Between Studs,
15 mm Insulation Board Across Studs 32
W16. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding Thermo Cellular Reflective Insulation Across Studs 32
W17. Reverse Brick Veneer, Timber Cladding, R1.5 Bulk Insulation 33
W18. Reverse Brick Veneer, Timber Cladding, R2.0 Bulk Insulation 33
W19. Reverse Brick Veneer, Timber Cladding, R2.5 Bulk Insulation 34
W20. Timber-framed Walls, Weatherboard, Plywood or Fibre-cement Cladding, RFL 34
W21. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, RFL on 25 mm Battens, R1.5 Bulk Insulation Between Studs 35
W22. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, RFL on 25 mm Battens, R2.0 Bulk Insulation Between Studs 35
W23. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, RFL on 25 mm Battens, R2.5 Bulk Insulation Between Studs 36
W24. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, Concertina RFL, Between Studs 36
W25. Timber-framed Walls, Weatherboard or Sheet Cladding, Concertina RFL Between Studs 37
W26. MRTFC, Fire Resistance Level (FRL 60 Mins Class 1, Bulk Insulation Between Studs 37
W27. MRTFC, FRL 60 Mins Class 2, Bulk Insulation Between Studs 38
W28. MRTFC, FRL 90 Mins Class 2, Bulk Insulation Between Studs 38
W29. MRTFC, FRL 90 Mins Class 2, Bulk Insulation Between Studs 39
W30. MRTFC, FRL 90 Mins Class 2, Bulk Insulation Between Studs 39
W31. Timber-framed Walls, Weatherboard, Plywood or Fibre-cement Cladding, Staggered Studs
120 mm Top/Bottom Plate, R3.0 Bulk Insulation 40
W32. Timber-framed Walls, Weatherboard, Plywood or Fibre-cement Cladding, Staggered Studs
120 mm Top/Bottom Plate, R3.2 Bulk Insulation 40
W33. Timber-framed Walls, Weatherboard, Plywood or Fibre-cement Cladding, Staggered Studs
120 mm Top/Bottom Plate, R3.5 Bulk Insulation 41

Suspended Timber Floors – No Sub-floor Walls 42

Explanation of Tables 43
F1. Bare Timber, No Sub-floor Walls 44
F2. Carpeted Timber, No Sub-floor Walls 44
F3. Tiled Timber, No Sub-floor Walls 45
F4. Floating Timber, No Sub-floor Walls 45
F5. Bare Timber, No Sub-floor Walls, Bulk Insulation Between Joists 46
F6. Carpeted Timber, No Sub-floor Walls, Bulk Insulation Between Joists 47
F7. Tiled Timber, No Sub-floor Walls, Bulk Insulation Between Joists 48
F8. Bare Timber, No Sub-Floor Walls, Plywood Under Joists 49
F9. Carpeted Timber, No Sub-floor Walls, Plywood Under Joists 49
F10. Tiled Timber, No Sub-floor Walls, Plywood Under Joists 50

Suspended Timber Floors – Enclosed Sub-floor, Cavity Disconnected 51

Explanation of Tables 52
F11. Bare Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame 53
F12. Carpeted Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame 54
F13. Tiled Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame 55
F14. Bare Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Over Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame 56
F15. Bare Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Between Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame 56
F16. Bare Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Under Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame 57
F17. Carpeted Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Over Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame 57

2 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

 Contents
F18. Carpeted Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Between Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame 58
F19. Carpeted Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Under Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame 58
F20. Tiled Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Over Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame 59
F21. Tiled Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Between Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame 59
F22. Tiled Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Under Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame 60
F23. Bare Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Bulk Insulation Between Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame 61
F24. Carpeted Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Bulk Insulation Between Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame 62
F25. Tiled Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Bulk Insulation Between Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame 63
F26. Bare Timber, R1.5 Insulated Sub-floor Walls, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame 64
F27. Carpeted Timber, R1.5 Insulated Sub-floor Walls, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame 65
F28. Tiled Timber, R1.5 Insulated Sub-floor Walls, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame 66

Suspended Timber Floors – Enclosed Sub-Floor, Cavity Connected 67

F29. Bare Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Cavity Connected 68

F30. Carpeted Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Cavity Connected 68
F31. Tiled Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Cavity Connected 69
F32. Bare Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Over Joists, Cavity Connected 69
F33. Bare Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Between Joists, Cavity Connected 70
F34. Bare Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Under Joists, Cavity Connected 70
F35. Carpeted Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Over Joists, Cavity Connected 71
F36. Carpeted Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Between Joists, Cavity Connected 71
F37. Carpeted Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Under Joists, Cavity Connected 72
F38. Tiled Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Over Joists, Cavity Connected 72
F39. Tiled Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Between Joists, Cavity Connected 73
F40. Tiled Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Under Joists, Cavity Connected 73
F41. Bare Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Bulk Insulation Between Joists, Cavity Connected 74
F42. Carpeted Timber, Sub-Floor Walls, Bulk Insulation Between Joists, Cavity Connected 75
F43. Tiled Timber, Sub-Floor Walls, Bulk Insulation Between Joists, Cavity Connected 76

Tables

Table 1: Thermal Resistance of Air Films (m2K/W) 6

Table 2: Thermal Resistance of Attic Spaces (m2K/W) 6
Table 3: Emissivity of Materials 6
Table 4: Thermal Conductivity of Materials 7
Table 5: Standard Values Assumed in Suspended Floor Calculations 8
Table 6: Indicative Thickness of Insulation Products to Achieve Stated R-Value 10

Figures

Figure 1: Sub-Floor Ventilation Zones 8

Figure 2: Cavity Disconnection Options 9

Abbreviations

RFL Reflective Foil Laminate

TCRI Thermo-Cellular Reflective Insulation
BBM Breathable Building Membrane
BCA Building Code of Australia

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 3

 Introduction
This publication provides authoritative estimates of the R-value of common building construction
elements incorporating timber-framed construction. These may be required to satisfy minimum energy
efficiency standards introduced by building regulatory authorities throughout Australia. The R-values
have been calculated using two computer programs Rvalues5.for (walls and roof/ceilings) and FlorsU2.
for (floors). These programs include an iterative calculation of the thermal resistance of all components,
including air gaps and spaces, to produce accurate values for the assumed external and internal
temperature conditions. The various assumptions inherent in the calculations are explained in this
publication. It should be noted that any variation to these variables may result in a different R-value for
the element.

The Building Code of Australia (BCA 2011) increased the energy efficiency requirements to a so called
6 Star energy rating or equivalent for new residential buildings, and as well introduces a significant
increase in the energy efficiency provisions for all new commercial buildings. These changes have seen
the need to increase the level of thermal insulation in all building elements. With this in mind, this edition
(Edition 3.0) of the R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements builds upon the systems detailed in
Version 2.1 and provides for higher levels of insulation.

Notes on the Calculation of R-values

The R-value of a building element is the TOTAL THERMAL RESISTANCE (RT) including surface thermal
resistances between the air on either side of a building element. The total thermal resistance of a planar
building element consisting of layers perpendicular to the heat flow is calculated using the expression:

RT = Rsi + R1 + R2 + . . . . . + Rn + Rse

Where: RT is the total resistance;

Rsi is the internal surface resistance;

R1, R2, ....Rn are the thermal resistances of each layer, including bridged layers; and

Rse is the external surface resistance.

Surface resistance values adopted in the calculations are given in Table 1.

The thermal resistance of an element that is not continuous but is bridged by timber frames is
determined by the method given in NZS 4214: Methods of determining the total thermal resistance of
parts of buildings. The average of the parallel flow and isothermal planes methods is assumed.

The thermal resistance of an air space within a building element depends on the effective emissivity
of the space as well as the mean temperature and the difference in temperatures either side of the
space. It follows therefore that the calculation of the R-value of a building element containing air
spaces depends on the conditions assumed externally and internally. Similarly, the conductivity of bulk
insulation materials will vary with the temperature of the material. These factors are taken into account
when determining the R-values given for both ‘Heat Flow IN’ and ‘Heat Flow OUT’ in this publication.
The external conditions take into account the equivalent increase in the air temperature due to solar
radiation on the element. This sol-air increment for walls has been calculated as the average of eight
wall orientations and on a horizontal plane for a roof element. For Heat Flow IN conditions, this sol-air
increment is the average for the location taken over daytime hours for the hottest six months of the year.
The temperatures, temperature differences and mean temperatures used in the calculations are taken
from AS/NZS 4859.1:

Heat flow out: Indoors 18°C, outdoors 12°C (6°K difference), mean 15°C

Heat flow in: Indoors 24°C, outdoors 36°C (12°K difference), mean 30°C

4 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

The R-values in this publication are intended to give a good indication of the overall performance of
an element in Heat Flow IN and Heat Flow OUT situations. It is important to realise that the boundary
conditions (temperature and solar radiation) and other factors used in the calculation of the R-values may
differ with assumptions made in other sources of data.

Changes in Edition 3.0

Version 2.1 (2007) of R-values for timber-framed building elements is updated in line with assumptions in
the BCA (2011) and Australian Standard AS 4859.1 Materials for the thermal insulation of buildings Part
1: General criteria and technical provisions (2006). In some cases, this process involved changes to the
values used in the calculations and, consequently, the R-values in this new edition may differ slightly from
earlier versions of the document.

The most significant assumptions that are different are discussed below.

Material properties, construction and other details

Standard values for the conductivity of common building materials included in the BCA are now used in the
calculations. Table 4 gives the thermal conductivity of materials used in the calculations.

Standard assumptions taken from AS 4859.1, Appendix K are now used in the calculations. These include,

• framing sizes
• soil conductivity
• internal and external temperatures
• wind speed
• emissivities

Emissivity values used in the calculations are shown in Table 3.

Resistances of air films, attic spaces, air spaces

Air film and attic space resistances specified in the BCA and AS4859.1 are used in the calculations.
Table 1 shows air film resistances and Table 2 shows attic space thermal resistance values.

The thermal resistance of air spaces is calculated by the method given in Robinson and Powlitch (1954).

The air film on the lower surface of the floor is assumed to be still.

Ventilation

Ventilation assumptions for roof/attic spaces are taken from AS 4859.1.

Tiled roofs, without reflective foil or blanket type insulation, are assumed to be naturally vented. Metal
roofs and tiled roofs with reflective foil or blanket type insulation are assumed to non-vented. Wall cavities
are assumed to be non-vented.

Calculation method for floors

The previous calculations were based on the CIBSE Guide (1986), while the new calculations are based on
the method described in the International Standard ISO 13370 Thermal performance of buildings — Heat
transfer via the ground — Calculation method. The calculation of the R-value takes into account the total
resistance due to conduction, convection, radiation and ventilation. The computer program, FlorsU2.for
performs the required calculations. Standard input parameters adopted in the calculations are shown in
Table 5.

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 5

Table 1: Thermal Resistance of Air Films (m2K/W)

Position of Surface Direction of Heat Flow Surface Emissivity

High Emittance Low Emittance
Still air Horizontal Up 0.11 0.23
Down 0.16 0.80
o
Sloping 45 Up 0.11 0.24
Down 0.13 0.39
o
Sloping 22.5 Up 0.11 0.24
Down 0.15 0.60
Vertical Horizontal 0.12 0.30
Moving air Any Orientation 3.0 m/s Any 0.04

Source: AS 4859.1 Materials for the thermal insulation of buildings

Note: Materials with e=0.05 or less are referred to as low emittance and those with e=0.9 are high emittance.

Table 2: Thermal Resistance of Attic Spaces (m2K/W)

Roof Space Type Direction of Heat Flow Surface Emissivity

High emittance Low emittance surface
Non-ventilated Up (winter) 0.18 0.56
Down (summer 0.28 1.09

Natural ventilation Up (Winter) 0.00 0.34

Down (Summer 0.46 1.36

Source: AS 4859.1 Materials for the thermal insulation of buildings

Table 3: Emissivity of Materials

Material Emissivity
Aluminum reflective foil
No dust cover 0.03
Slight dust cover 0.03+0.05
Moderate dust cover 0.03+0.25
Aluminum foil with anti-glare treatment, building wrap (upper surface) 0.20
Breathable building membrane 0.5
Common building materials 0.90

Source: AS 4859.1 Materials for the thermal insulation of buildings

Note: Materials with e=0.05 or less are referred to as low emittance and those with e=0.9 are high emittance.

6 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

Table 4: Thermal Conductivity of Materials

Material Material Density Thermal Conductivity

(kg/m3) (W/m.K)
Aluminium roof sheeting 2680 210
Carpet + underlay 0.05
Cellulose fibre – loose fill (with fire retardant) 0.04
Ceramic tiles 1
1.136
Brickwork – extruded 2 1580 0.61
Brickwork – pressed 2 2120 1.03
Autoclaved aerated concrete 650 0.13
Concrete or terracotta tiles 1922 0.81
Solid concrete 2400 1.44
Dense hollow concrete block, 90 mm 1650 0.75
Fibre cement sheet 1360 0.25
Glassfibre – batts 1
12 0.044
Gypsum plasterboard 880 0.17
Lightweight concrete block:
140 mm 1050 0.67
90mm 1360 0.55
Linoleum 1
1300 0.22
Particle board 640 0.12
Plywood 530 0.14
Polystyrene – expanded 1
0.039
Polystyrene – extruded 1
0.028
Rockwool – batts 1
0.033
Rockwool – loose fill 1
0.040
Steel sheeting 7850 47.5
Timber framing – Kiln dried hardwood across grain 677 0.16
Timber framing – Radiata pine across grain 506 0.10
Vinyl floor tiles 2050 0.79
Weatherboards – softwood 506 0.10
1
Source: CSIRO (2006) AccuRate Material Properties. Melbourne: Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation.
2
Source: AIRAH (2000) Handbook: Millennium Edition. Melbourne: The Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air-Conditioning and Heating.
Note: Values for materials are from BCA (2011) unless noted.
Conductivity values given in this table are generally measured at 23 oC. The conductivity of bulk insulation materials is varied
as a function of the temperature of the material in accordance with AS 4859.1 Materials for the thermal insulation of buildings, Figure 2.

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 7

Table 5: Standard Values Assumed in Suspended Floor Calculations

Variable Assumed Standard Value

Soil - Clay
Density 1300 kg/m3
Thermal conductivity 1.5 W/m.K

Wind speed (10 m height) 3.0 m/s

Sub-floor ventilation Climatic Zone
Enclosed spaces*
In accordance with BCA Part 3.4.1 and Table 3.4.1.2 Zone A Zone B Zone C
(Figure 1 reproduced from BCA) 2000 mm2/m 4000 mm2/m 6000 mm2/m

* Enclosed sub-floor ventilation rates can be reduced if an impervious membrane is used to cover the ground (see BCA, Table 3.4.1.2)

Figure 1: Sub-floor Climatic Zones

DARWIN

Cairns
Broome
T
Townsville

Port Hedland Mount Isa

Onslow Alice Springs

A Bundaberg
Roma
BRISBANE
Kalgoorlie
B Coffs Harbour
PERTH Dubbo
C ADELAIDE
SYDNEY
CANBERRA
MELBOURNE
Zone A - 9am RH < 60%
Zone B - 9am RH < 60% and 3pm RH > 40%
Zone C - 9am RH < 70% and 3pm RH > 60%
RH = Relative Humidity HOBART
HOBA

References
AIRAH (2000). Handbook: Millennium Edition. Melbourne: The Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air-Condtioning and Heating.

ASHRAE (1998). Handbook of Fundamentals (SI). New York: American Society of Heating,
Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers.

AS/NZS (2006) AS/NZS 4859.1 Materials for the thermal insulation of buildings.
Part 1; General criteria and technical provisions. Sydney: Standards Australia/New Zealand Standards Association.

BCA (2011) Building Code of Australia. Canberra: Australian Building Code Board.

CIBSE Guide (1986) Section A3-Thermal Properties of Building Materials,

The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers, London.

CSIRO (2006) AccuRate Material Properties. Melbourne: Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation.

ISO (1998) ISO 13370 Thermal performance of buildings – heat transfer via the ground – calculation method.
Geneva: International Standards Organization.

Joy, F. A. (1958). Improving Attic Space Insulating Values. ASHRAE Transactions, 64, 251-264.

NZS (2006) NZS 4214 Methods of determining the total thermal resistance of parts of buildings.
Wellington: Standards New Zealand.

Robinson, H. E., & Powlitch, F. J. (1954). Housing Research Paper 32. The Thermal Insulating Value of Airspaces.
Washington, DC: Housing and Home Finance Agency.

8 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

Cavity Disconnected Detail

The thermal performance of timber floors in brick veneer construction can be dramatically improved by
eliminating the cavity airflow path at either the roof level or floor level.

A ‘flashing’ across the wall cavity controls the airflow between the roof space and sub-floor, effectively
disconnecting the roof space from the sub-floor space.

This change will directly improve the energy performance of a design with an enclosed sub-floor.

Make the change in either the roof (Option 1) or sub-floor area (Option 2) by taking a flashing from the
brickwork to the top or bottom-plate. With the bottom-plate option you will need to insert weep holes
for removing condensation – as with slab-on-ground construction.

If flashed at roof level, fold over and secure foil across the cavity gap at the top of the brickwork or fit
a timber trimmer or bulk insulation across the cavity. This detail is especially effective when improving
the thermal performance of an alteration or addition.

Figure 2 – Cavity Disconnection Options

Engaged
Pier
Sub-floor
Space
Option 1 Option 2

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 9

Things to Consider

• The operating thickness of insulation to achieved its stated R-value varies according to a number of
factors, including the type of insulation material, its density and how it is packaged. Insulation should not
be compressed so that a manufacturer’s specified thickness is reduced. In all cases the manufacturer’s
specifications should be followed. As a guide, Table 6 gives an idea of expected thickness of insulation to
achieve its R-value.

Table 6: Indicative Thickness of Insulation Products to Achieve Stated R-value

Material R-value Thickness

Glasswool
Ceiling Batts R2.0 115 mm
R3.0 165 mm
R4.0 215 mm
R5.0 210 mm
R6.0 260 mm
Wall Batts R2.0 75 mm
R2.5 90 mm
Rockwool
Wall batts R2.0 75 mm
R2.5 88 mm
R3.0 120 mm
Polyester
Roof batts R2.0 90 mm
R2.5 160 mm
R3.0 175 mm
R4.0 220 mm
R4.5 225 mm
Thermal & sound wall batts R1.5 70 mm
R2.0 90 mm

• Bulk thermal insulation may present a high hazard if it contacts potentially hot components (e.g. hot
gas flue, recessed downlights) or impairs adequate air circulation around these components. Minimum
clearances between the component and the insulation should be maintained as specified by the BCA or
relevant Australian Standard.

• The loss of insulation due to safety clearances around flues and recessed downlights or the presence
of exhaust fans must be compensated for by increasing the minimum R-value of insulation in accordance
with BCA requirements.

• In certain circumstances condensation may form within a construction element. This should be
carefully checked according to the location and operation of the proposed building and if necessary
a vapour barrier included at an appropriate position within the element. See the BCA Condensation
Handbook for more information.

10 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

Pitched Roofs
Flat Ceilings and Raked Ceilings

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 11

 Explanation of Tables
For roof/ceiling elements the R-values are presented for the two directions of heat flow, DOWN and UP.
A Heat flow DOWN means the heat flows into the internal spaces of the building.
B Heat flow UP means the heat flows from the internal spaces of the building.
C RFL (2) may be corrugated or sheets fixed to joists
D Batten size (5) to be appropriate for the depth of insulation being used – refer to page 10.

R8. Metal Roof, Ceilings with Exposed Rafters, Bulk Insulation &RFL

1. Metal decking
2. RFL
3. Bulk Insulation
4. Vapour barrier
5. Timber batten
6. Ceiling lining
C 7. Exposed rafter

o o
D Slope: 15 to 35

Insulation Type Total R-value for roof/ceiling (m2K/W)

A Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP

(Hot weather)
B (Cold weather)

R3.0 bulk insulation 2.9 3.1

R3.5 bulk insulation 3.3 3.5

R4.0 bulk insulation 3.7 3.9

R4.5 bulk insulation 4.0 4.3

R5.0 bulk insulation 4.4 4.6

R6.0 bulk insulation 5.0 5.3

12 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

R1. Pitched Roof, Flat Ceiling, (without and with) Bulk Insulation Between Joists

1. Roof cladding
2. Attic space (non-reflective)
3. Bulk insulation
4. Timber ceiling joists
5. 10 mm Plasterboard

Insulation Type Total R-value for roof/ceiling (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
No bulk insulation
Tiles 0.8 0.4
Metal 0.6 0.4
R3.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 3.4 3.3
Metal 3.2 3.3
R3.5 bulk insulation
Tiles 3.8 3.7
Metal 3.6 3.7
R4.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 4.1 4.1
Metal 4.0 4.1
R4.5 bulk insulation
Tiles 4.5 4.5
Metal 4.3 4.5
R5.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 4.9 4.9
Metal 4.7 4.9
R6.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 5.5 5.6
Metal 5.4 5.6

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 13

 R2. Pitched Roof, Reflective Foil Laminate (RFL), Flat Ceiling,
(without and with) Bulk Insulation Between Joists

1. Roof cladding
2. Airspace (non-reflective)
3. RFL
4. Attic space (reflective)
5. Bulk insulation
6. Timber ceiling joists
7. 10 mm Plasterboard

Insulation Type Total R-value for roof/ceiling (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
No bulk insulation
Tiles 1.9 1.2
Metal 1.8 1.2
R3.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 4.5 4.2
Metal 4.4 4.2
R3.5 bulk insulation
Tiles 4.9 4.6
Metal 4.8 4.6
R4.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 5.3 5.0
Metal 5.2 5.0
R4.5 bulk insulation
Tiles 5.7 5.5
Metal 5.6 5.5
R5.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 6.1 5.9
Metal 6.0 5.9
R6.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 6.8 6.7
Metal 6.7 6.6

14 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

 R3. Pitched Roof, Flat Ceiling, Bulk Insulation Between Joists,
Concertina RFL on Top of Bulk Insulation

1. Roof cladding
2. Attic space (semi-reflective)
3. Concertina RFL
4. Air space (reflective)
5. Bulk insulation
6. Timber ceiling joists
7. 10mm Plasterboard

Insulation Type Total R-value for roof/ceiling (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
R3.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 4.2 3.9
Metal 4.1 3.9
R3.5 bulk insulation
Tiles 4.6 4.4
Metal 4.4 4.4
R4.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 5.0 4.8
Metal 4.8 4.8
R4.5 bulk insulation
Tiles 5.4 5.2
Metal 5.2 5.2
R5.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 5.7 5.6
Metal 5.6 5.6
R6.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 6.4 6.4
Metal 6.3 6.4

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 15

 R4. Pitched Roof, Thermo-Cellular Reflective Insulation, Flat Ceiling, (without and with) Bulk
Insulation Between Joists

1. Roof cladding
2. Airspace (non-reflective)
3. Thermo-cellular
reflective insulation
4. Attic space (reflective)
5. Bulk insulation
6. Timber ceiling joists
7. 10 mm Plasterboard

Insulation Type Total R-value for roof/ceiling (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
No bulk insulation
Tiles 2.1 1.4
Metal 2.0 1.3
R3.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 4.6 4.3
Metal 4.6 4.2
R3.5 bulk insulation
Tiles 5.0 4.7
Metal 5.0 4.7
R4.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 5.4 5.1
Metal 5.3 5.1
R4.5 bulk insulation
Tiles 5.7 5.5
Metal 5.7 5.5
R5.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 6.1 5.9
Metal 6.1 5.9
R6.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 6.8 6.7
Metal 6.8 6.7

16 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

R5. Pitched Roof, Flat Ceiling, Rigid Bulk Insulation over Joists

1. Roof cladding
2. Airspace (non-reflective)
3. RFL
4. Attic space (reflective)
5. Bulk insulation
6. Airspace (non-reflective)
7. Timber ceiling joists
8. 10 mm Plasterboard

Insulation Type Total R-value for roof/ceiling (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
R3.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 5.0 4.5
Metal 5.0 4.5
R3.5 bulk insulation
Tiles 5.5 5.1
Metal 5.5 5.1
R4.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 6.0 5.6
Metal 6.0 5.6
R4.5 bulk insulation
Tiles 6.5 6.1
Metal 6.5 6.1
R5.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 7.0 6.6
Metal 7.0 6.6
R6.0 bulk insulation
Tiles 8.0 7.7
Metal 8.0 7.7

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 17

 R6. Pitched Roof, Flat Ceiling, Concertina Rfl Between Joists

1. Roof cladding
2. Airspace (non-reflective)
3. RFL
4. Attic space (reflective)
5. Concertina RFL
6. Airspace (reflective)
7. Timber ceiling joists
8. 10 mm Plasterboard

Insulation Type Total R-value for roof/ceiling (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
One layer of foil batts
Tiles 3.0 1.8
Metal 2.9 1.7
Two layers foil batts at right angles
Tiles 4.1 2.4
Metal 4.1 2.3

R7. Metal Roof, Ceilings with Exposed Rafters, Foil-Backed Blanket or

Thermo-Cellular Reflective Insulation

1. Metal decking
2. Foil-backed blanket or
thermo-cellular reflective
insulation (TCRI)
(reflective foil DOWN)
3. Timber battens*
4. Plasterboard
5. Exposed rafter

o o
Slope: 15 to 35

Insulation Type Total R-value for roof/ceiling (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
TCRI 1.2 0.9
R2.0 insulating blanket 2.1 2.3
R2.5 insulating blanket 2.6 2.7
R3.0 insulating blanket 3.0 3.2

* Batten size to be appropriate for the depth of insulation being used – refer Things to Consider (page 10).

18 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

 R8. Metal Roof, Ceilings with Exposed Rafters, Bulk Insulation and RFL

1. Metal decking
2. RFL
3. Bulk Insulation
4. Vapour barrier
5. Timber batten
6. Ceiling lining
7. Exposed rafter

o o
Slope: 15 to 35

Insulation Type Total R-value for roof/ceiling (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
R3.0 bulk insulation 2.9 3.1

R3.5 bulk insulation 3.3 3.5

R4.0 bulk insulation 3.7 3.9

R4.5 bulk insulation 4.0 4.3

R5.0 bulk insulation 4.4 4.6

R6.0 bulk insulation 5.0 5.3

* Batten size to be appropriate for the depth of insulation being used –refer Things to Consider (page 10).

R9. Tiled Roof, Ceilings with Exposed Rafters, Bulk Insulation

1. Tiles
2. Timber tile battens
3. RFL
4. Bulk insulation
5. Counter battens
6. Breathable building
membrane
7. Plasterboard
8. Exposed rafter

o o
Slope: 15 to 35

Insulation Type Total R-value for roof/ceiling (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
R3.0 bulk insulation 3.0 3.2

R3.5 bulk insulation 3.4 3.7

R4.0 bulk insulation 3.7 3.9

R4.5 bulk insulation 4.0 4.3

R5.0 bulk insulation 4.5 4.8

R6.0 bulk insulation 5.1 5.5

* Batten size to be appropriate for the depth of insulation being used – refer Things to Consider (page 10).

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 19

 R10. Tiled Roof, Ceilings with Exposed Rafters, Foil-Backed Polystyrene Board Insulation

1. Tiles
2. Timber tile battens
3. Airspace (non-reflective)
4. RFL
5. Counter battens*
6. Reflective airspace
7. Polystyrene board
8. 10 mm Plasterboard
9. Exposed rafter

o o
Slope: 15 to 35

Insulation Type Total R-value for roof/ceiling (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Expanded polystyrene
7 5mm 3.4 3.1
100 mm 3.9 3.7

Extruded polystyrene
75 mm 4.0 3.7
100 mm 4.7 4.4

* Counter batten size to be appropriate for the depth of insulation being used – refer Things to Consider (page 10).

R11. Metal Roof, Raked Ceiling with Concealed Rafter, RFL, (without and with) Bulk Insulation

1. Metal roofing
2.RFL
3. Timber roofing batten
4. Airspace (Reflective)
5. Bulk insulation
6. Timber rafter*
7. Vapour barrier
8. 10 mm Plasterboard

o o
Slope: 15 to 35

Insulation Type Total R-value for roof/ceiling (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
No bulk insulation 1.5 1.3

R3.0 bulk insulation 4.1 4.1

R3.5 bulk insulation 4.5 4.6

R4.0 bulk insulation 5.0 5.2

R4.5 bulk insulation 5.6 5.8

R5.0 bulk insulation 6.0 6.3

R6.0 bulk insulation 6.8 7.1

* Rafter size to be appropriate for the depth of insulation being used – refer Things to Consider (page 10).

20 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

 R12. Tile Roof, Raked Ceiling with Concealed Rafter, Bulk Insulation

1. Tiles
2. Timber tile batten
3. RFL
4. Timber rafter*
5. Bulk insulation
6. Vapour barrier
7. 10 mm Plasterboard

o o
Slope: 15 to 35

Insulation Type Total R-value for roof/ceiling (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
R3.0 bulk insulation 3.7 3.9

R3.5 bulk insulation 4.1 4.3

R4.0 bulk insulation 4.7 4.9

R4.5 bulk insulation 5.1 5.4

R5.0 bulk insulation 5.6 5.9

R6.0 bulk insulation 6.3 6.8

* Rafter size to be appropriate for the depth of insulation being used – refer Things to Consider (page 10).

R13. Metal Roof, Raked Ceiling With Concealed Rafter, Thermo-Cellular Reflective Insulation,
(Without And With) Bulk Insulation

1. Metal roofing
2. Thermo-cellular
reflective insulation
3. Timber roofing batten
4. 35 mm Airspace (Reflective)
5. Bulk insulation
6. Timber rafter
7. Vapour barrier
8. 10 mm Plasterboard

o o
Slope: 15 to 35

Insulation Type Total R-value for roof/ceiling (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
No bulk insulation 1.3 1.0

R3.0 bulk insulation 4.2 4.2

R3.5 bulk insulation 4.6 4.7

R4.0 bulk insulation 4.9 5.0

R4.5 bulk insulation 5.4 5.6

R5.0 bulk insulation 5.8 6.0

R6.0 bulk insulation 6.7 6.9

* Rafter size to be appropriate for the depth of insulation being used – refer Things to Consider (page 10).
R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 21
 R14. Tile Roof, Raked Ceiling with Concealed Rafter, Thermo-Cellular Reflective Insulation,
(without and with) Bulk Insulation

1. Tiles
2. Timber tile batten
3 Thermo-cellular
reflective insulation
4. Timber rafter
5. Bulk insulation
6. Vapour barrier
7. 10 mm Plasterboard

o o
Slope: 15 to 35

Insulation Type Total R-value for roof/ceiling (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
No bulk insulation 1.8 1.5

R3.0 bulk insulation 4.6 4.5

R3.5 bulk insulation 5.0 5.1

R4.0 bulk insulation 5.5 5.6

R4.5 bulk insulation 6.0 6.1

R5.0 bulk insulation 6.4 6.5

R6.0 bulk insulation 7.2 7.4

* Rafter size to be appropriate for the depth of insulation being used – refer Things to Consider (page 10).

22 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

 Timber Framed
Walls
double-sided
internal reflective foil
wall lining

stud

minimum
verlap
50 mm
R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 23
 Explanation of Tables
For wall elements the R-values are presented for the two directions of heat flow, IN and OUT.
A Heat flow IN means the heat flows into the internal spaces of the building (in hot weather).
B Heat flow OUT means the heat flows from the internal spaces of the building (in cold weather).
Cavities are presumed to be non-vented as per AS4859.1.

W5. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, Breathable Building Membrane,

R1.5 Bulk Insulation Between Studs

1. External cladding
2. Air space (non-reflective)
3. Breathable building membrane
4. R1.5 Bulk Insulation
5. Timber studs
6. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
A (Hot weather)
B (Cold weather)
Clay brick 110 mm
70 mm framing 2.0 2.2
90 mm framing 2.0 2.2
Concrete brick 90 mm
70 mm framing 2.0 2.1
90 mm framing 2.0 2.1
Aerated concrete block
70 mm framing 2.6 2.7
90 mm framing 2.7 2.8

24 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

W1. Timber Framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, R1.5 Bulk Insulation Between Studs

1. External cladding
2. Air space (non-reflective)
3. R1.5 Bulk Insulation
4. Timber studs
5. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Clay brick 110 mm
70 mm framing 1.9 2.1
90 mm framing 2.0 2.1
Concrete brick 90 mm
70 mm framing 1.9 2.0
90 mm framing 1.9 2.0
Aerated concrete block
70 mm framing 2.5 2.7
90 mm framing 2.6 2.7

W2. Timber Framed Walls, Brick Or Block Cladding, R2.0 Bulk Insulation Between Studs

1. External cladding
2. Air space (non-reflective)
3. R2.0 Bulk Insulation
4. Timber studs
5. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Clay brick 110 mm
70 mm framing 2.3 2.5
90 mm framing 2.4 2.6
Concrete brick 90 mm
70 mm framing 2.3 2.4
90 mm framing 2.3 2.5
Aerated concrete block
70 mm framing 3.0 3.1
90 mm framing 3.0 3.1

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 25

 W3. Timber Framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, R2.0 Bulk Insulation Between Studs, Insulated Plasterboard

1. External cladding
2. Air space (non-reflective)
3. R2.0 Bulk Insulation
4. Timber studs
5. Insulated Plasterboard 35 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Clay brick 110 mm
70 mm framing 3.4 3.6
90 mm framing 3.5 3.7
Concrete brick 90 mm
70 mm framing 3.4 3.6
90 mm framing 3.4 3.6
Aerated concrete block
70 mm framing 4.0 4.2
90 mm framing 4.1 4.2

W4. Timber-framed Walls, Brick Or Block Cladding, R2.5 Bulk Insulation Between Studs

1. External cladding
2. Air space (non-reflective)
3. R2.5 Bulk Insulation
4. Timber studs
5. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Clay brick 110 mm
90 mm framing 2.8 3.0
Concrete brick 90 mm
90 mm framing 2.7 2.9
Aerated concrete block
90 mm framing 3.4 3.6

26 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

W5. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, Breathable Building Membrane,
R1.5 Bulk Insulation Between Studs

1. External cladding
2. Air space (non-reflective)
3. Breathable building membrane
4. R1.5 Bulk Insulation
5. Timber studs
6. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Clay brick 110 mm
70 mm framing 2.0 2.2
90 mm framing 2.0 2.2
Concrete brick 90 mm
70 mm framing 2.0 2.1
90 mm framing 2.0 2.1
Aerated concrete block
70 mm framing 2.6 2.7
90 mm framing 2.7 2.8

W6. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, Breathable Building Membrane,

R2.0 Bulk Insulation Between Studs

1. External cladding
2. Air space (non-reflective)
3. Breathable building membrane
4. R2.0 Bulk Insulation
5. Timber studs
6. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Clay brick 110 mm
70 mm framing 2.6 2.8
90 mm framing 2.6 2.8
Concrete brick 90 mm
70 mm framing 2.5 2.7
90 mm framing 2.6 2.8
Aerated concrete block
70 mm framing 3.2 3.4
90 mm framing 3.2 3.4

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 27

 W7. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, Breathable Building Membrane,
R2.5 Bulk Insulation Between Studs

1. External cladding
2. Air space (non-reflective)
3. Breathable building membrane
4. R2.5 Bulk Insulation
5. Timber studs
6. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Clay brick 110 mm
90 mm framing 3.0 3.3
Concrete brick 90 mm
90 mm framing 3.0 3.2
Aerated concrete block
90 mm framing 3.7 3.9

W8. Timber-framed Walls, Weatherboard, Plywood or Fibre-Cement Cladding, R1.5 Bulk Insulation

1. External cladding
2. Breathable building membrane
3. R1.5 Bulk Insulation
4. Timber Studs
5. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Weatherboard
70 mm framing 2.1 2.1
90 mm framing 2.2 2.3
Plywood cladding
70 mm framing 2.0 2.0
90 mm framing 2.1 2.2
Fibre-cement cladding
70 mm framing 1.9 2.0
90 mm framing 2.0 2.1

28 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

W9. Timber Framed Walls, Weatherboard, Plywood or Fibre-Cement Cladding, R2.0 Bulk Insulation

1. External cladding
2. Breathable building membrane
3. R1.5 Bulk Insulation
4. Timber Studs
5. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Weatherboard
70 mm framing 2.2 2.3
90 mm framing 2.2 2.4
Plywood cladding
70 mm framing 2.1 2.2
90 mm framing 2.1 2.3
Fibre-cement cladding
70 mm framing 2.0 2.1
90 mm framing 2.0 2.2

W10. Timber Framed Walls, Weatherboard, Plywood or Fibre-Cement Cladding, R2.5 Bulk Insulation

1. External cladding
2. Breathable building membrane
3. R2.5 Bulk Insulation
4. Timber Studs
5. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Weatherboard
90 mm framing 2.6 2.8
Plywood cladding
90 mm framing 2.5 2.7
Fibre-cement cladding
90 mm framing 2.4 2.6

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 29

 W11. Timber-framed Walls, Weatherboard, Plywood or Fibre-Cement Cladding, R3.2 Bulk Insulation

1. External cladding
2. Breathable building membrane
3. R3.2 Bulk Insulation
4. Timber Studs 120 mm
5. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Weatherboard
120 mm framing 3.3 3.4
Plywood cladding
120 mm framing 3,2 3.3
Fibre-cement cladding
120 mm framing 3.1 3.3

W12. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, 10 mm Foil-Backed Insulation Board across Studs

1. External cladding
2. Air Space (non-reflective)
3. Insulation Board 10 mm
4. Air space (reflective)
5. Timber studs
6. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Clay brick
70 mm framing 1.9 2.0
90 mm framing 1.9 2.0
Concrete brick
70 mm framing 1.8 1.9
90 mm framing 1.8 1.9
Aerated concrete block
70 mm framing 2.5 2.6
90 mm framing 2.5 2.6

30 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

W13. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, 15mm Foil-Backed Insulation Board across Studs

1. External cladding
2. Air Space (non reflective)
3. Insulation board 15 mm
4. Air space (reflective)
5. Timber studs
6. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Clay brick
70 mm framing 2.1 2.2
90 mm framing 2.1 2.2
Concrete brick
70 mm framing 2.0 2.1
90 mm framing 2.0 2.1
Aerated concrete block
70 mm framing 2.7 2.8
90 mm framing 2.7 2.8

W14. Timber-framed Walls, Brick Or Block Cladding, R2.0 Bulk Insulation Between Studs,
10 mm Insulation Board Across Studs

1. External cladding
2. Air Space (non reflective)
3. Insulation Board 10 mm
4. R2.0 Bulk Insulation
5. Timber studs
6. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Clay brick
70 mm framing 3.0 3.2
90 mm framing 3.1 3.3
Concrete brick
70 mm framing 3.0 3.2
90 mm framing 3.0 3.2
Aerated concrete block
70 mm framing 3.6 3.8
90 mm framing 3.7 3.8

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 31

 W15. Timber-framed Walls, Brick Or Block Cladding, R2.0 Bulk Insulation Between Studs,
15mm Insulation Board Across Studs

1. External cladding
2. Air Space (non-reflective)
3. Insulation board 15 mm
4. R2.0 Bulk Insulation
5. Timber studs
6. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Clay Brick
70 mm framing 3.2 3.4
90 mm framing 3.3 3.4
Concrete brick
70 mm framing 3.2 3.3
90 mm framing 3.2 3.4
Aerated concrete block
70 mm framing 3.8 4.0
90 mm framing 3.9 4.0

W16. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding Thermo Cellular Reflective Insulation across Studs

1. External cladding
2. Air Space (non-reflective)
3. Thermo-cellular
reflective insulation
4. Air space (reflective)
5. Timber studs
6. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Clay brick
70 mm framing 1.7 1.9
90 mm framing 1.6 1.7
Concrete brick
70 mm framing 1.6 1.7
90 mm framing 1.6 1.7
Aerated concrete block
70 mm framing 2.3 2.5
90 mm framing 2.3 2.5

32 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

W17. Reverse Brick Veneer, Timber Cladding, R1.5 Bulk Insulation

1. External cladding
2. Breathable building membrane
3. R1.5 bulk insulation
4. Timber studs
5. Air space (non-reflective)
6. Brick internal cladding

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Weatherboard
70 mm framing 2.1 2.2
90 mm framing 2.0 2.1
Plywood cladding
70 mm framing 1.8 1.9
90 mm framing 1.8 2.0
Fibre-cement cladding
70 mm framing 1.7 1.9
90 mm framing 1.8 1.9

W18. Reverse Brick Veneer, Timber Cladding, R2.0 Bulk Insulation

1. External cladding
2. Breathable building membrane
3. R2.0 bulk insulation
4. Timber studs
5. Air space (non-reflective)
6. Brick internal cladding

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Weatherboard
70 mm framing 2.7 2.8
90 mm framing 2.8 2.8
Plywood cladding
70 mm framing 2.6 2.7
90 mm framing 2.4 2.5
Fibre-cement cladding
70 mm framing 2.5 2.6
90 mm framing 2.6 2.7

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 33

 W19. Reverse Brick Veneer, Timber Cladding, R2.5 Bulk Insulation

1. External cladding
2. Breathable building membrane
3. R2.5 bulk insulation
4. Timber studs
5. Air space (non-reflective)
6. Brick internal cladding

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Weatherboard
90 mm framing 3.2 3.3
Plywood cladding
90 mm framing 2.9 3.0
Fibre-cement cladding
90 mm framing 3.0 3.1

W20. Timber-framed Walls, Weatherboard, Plywood or Fibre-Cement Cladding, RFL

1. External cladding
2. Air space (Anti-glare)
3. Permeable RFL
4. Air space (Reflective)
5. Timber studs
6. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Weatherboard
70 mm framing 1.1 1.1
90 mm framing 1.1 1.2
Plywood cladding
70 mm framing 1.0 1.0
90 mm framing 1.0 1.0
Fibre-cement cladding
70 mm framing 0.9 0.9
90 mm framing 0.9 1.0

34 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

W21. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, RFL on 25 mm Battens,
R1.5 Bulk Insulation Between Studs

1. External cladding
2. Air space (anti-glare)
3. RFL on 25 mm battens
4. Air space (reflective)
5. R1.5 Bulk Insulation
6. Timber studs
7. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Clay brick 110 mm
70 mm framing 3.0 3.1
90 mm framing 3.0 3.2
Concrete brick 90 mm
70 mm framing 2.9 3.1
90 mm framing 2.9 3.1
Aerated concrete block
70 mm framing 3.6 3.8
90 mm framing 3.6 3.8

W22. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, RFL on 25 mm Battens,

R2.0 Bulk Insulation Between Studs

1. External cladding
2. Air space (anti-glare)
3. RFL on 25 mm battens
4. Air space (reflective)
5. R2.0 Bulk Insulation
6. Timber studs
7. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Clay brick 110 mm
70 mm framing 3.5 3.5
90 mm framing 3.5 3.6
Concrete brick 90mm
70 mm framing 3.4 3.5
90 mm framing 3.4 3.6
Aerated concrete block
70 mm framing 4.1 4.1
90 mm framing 4.1 4.2

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 35

 W23. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, RFL on 25mm Battens,
R2.5 Bulk Insulation Between Studs

1. External cladding
2. Air space (anti-glare)
3. RFL on 25 mm battens
4. Air space (reflective)
5. R2.5 Bulk Insulation
6. Timber studs
7. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Clay brick 110 mm
90 mm framing 3.9 4.0
Concrete brick 90 mm
90 mm framing 3.8 3.9
Aerated concrete block
90 mm framing 4.5 4.6

W24. Timber-framed Walls, Brick or Block Cladding, Concertina RFL Between Studs

1. External cladding
2. Air space (anti-glare)
3.Breathable building membrane
4. Air space (reflective)
5. RFL
6. Timber studs
7. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Clay brick 110 mm
70 mm framing 2.2 2.6
90 mm framing 2.2 2.5
Concrete brick 90 mm
70 mm framing 2.2 2.5
90 mm framing 2.1 2.4
Aerated concrete block
70 mm framing 3.0 3.3
90 mm framing 2.9 3.2

36 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

W25. Timber-framed Walls, Weatherboard or Sheet Cladding, Concertina RFL Between Studs

1. External cladding
2. Breathable building membrane
3. Air space (reflective)
4. Concertina RFL
5. Air space (reflective)
6. Timber studs
7. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Weatherboard 20 mm
70mm framing 2.0 2.1
90mm framing 2.0 2.3
Plywood cladding 12 mm
70 mm framing 1.9 2.0
90 mm framing 1.9 2.1
Fibre-cement cladding
70 mm framing 1.8 1.9
90 mm framing 1.8 2.0

W26. MRTFC, Fire Resistance Level (FRL) 60 Mins Class 1, Bulk Insulation Between Studs

1. External cladding
(a) 6 mm fibre-cement sheet
(b) Permeable sarking or
breathable building membrane
(c) 13 mm fire-grade plasterboard
2. Bulk insulation
3. Timber studs
4. Standard plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
R1.5
70 mm framing 1.8 1.9
90 mm framing 1.9 2.0
R2.0
70 mm framing 2.2 2.3
90 mm framing 2.3 2.4
R2.5
90 mm framing 2.6 2.7

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 37

 W27. MRTFC, Fire Resistance Level (FRL) 60 Mins Class 2, Bulk Insulation Between Studs

1. External cladding
(a) 6 mm fibre cement sheet
(b) Permeable sarking or breathable building membrane
(c) 13 mm fire grade plasterboard
2. Bulk insulation
3. Timber Studs
4. Internal lining:
16 mm fire-grade plasterboard;
or 6 mm fibre-cement sheet plus
13 mm fire-grade plasterboard

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
R1.5
70 mm framing 1.8 1.9
90 mm framing 1.9 2.0
R2.0
70 mm framing 2.2 2.3
90 mm framing 2.3 2.4
R2.5
90 mm framing 2.6 2.7

W28. MRTFC, Fire Resistance Level (FRL) 90 Mins Class 2, Bulk Insulation Between Studs

1. External cladding
(a) 12 mm plywood
(b) Permeable sarking or breathable building membrane
(c) 16mm fire grade moisture-resistant plasterboard
2. Bulk insulation
3. Timber Studs
4. Internal lining:
2/13 mm fire-grade plasterboard; or
6 mm fibre-cement sheet plus
16 mm fire-grade plasterboard

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
R1.5
70 mm framing 2.0 2.0
90 mm framing 2.1 2.1
R2.0
70 mm framing 2.3 2.4
90 mm framing 2.4 2.5
R2.5
90 mm framing 2.7 2.8

38 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

W29. MRTFC, Fire Resistance Level (FRL) 90 Mins Class 2, Bulk Insulation Between Studs

1. External cladding
(a) 12 mm plywood
(b) Permeable sarking or breathable building membrane
(c) 16 mm fire-grade, moisture-resistant plasterboard
2. Bulk insulation
3. Timber studs
4. Internal lining:
2/13mm fire-grade plasterboard; or
6mm fibre-cement sheet plus
16mm fire-grade plasterboard

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
R1.5
70 mm framing 2.0 2.1
90 mm framing 2.1 2.1
R2.0
70 mm framing 2.5 2.5
90 mm framing 2.5 2.6
R2.5
90 mm framing 2.9 3.0

W30. MRTFC, Fire Resistance Level (FRL) 90 Mins Class 2, Bulk Insulation Between Studs

1. External cladding
(a) 6mm plywood
(b) Permeable sarking or breathable building membrane
(c) 16mm fire-grade, moisture-resistant plasterboard
2. Bulk insulation
3. Timber studs
4. Internal lining:
2/13 mm fire-grade plasterboard; or
6 mm fibre-cement sheet plus
16 mm fire-grade plasterboard

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
R1.5
70 mm framing 1.9 2.0
90 mm framing 2.0 2.1
R2.0
70 mm framing 2.2 2.3
90 mm framing 2.3 2.4
R2.5
90 mm framing 2.7 2.8

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 39

 W31. Timbe-framed Walls, Weatherboard, Plywood or Fibre-cement Cladding,
Staggered Studs 120 mm Top/Bottom Plate, R3.0 Bulk Insulation

1. External cladding
2. Breathable building membrane
3. R3.0 Bulk Insulation
4. Timber studs
5. Vapour barrier (as required)
6. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Weatherboard
70 mm framing 3.2 3.3
90 mm framing 3.1 3.3
Plywood cladding
70 mm framing 3.1 3.2
90 mm framing 3.0 3.2
Fibre-cement cladding
70 mm framing 3.0 3.2
90 mm framing 2.9 3.1

W32. Timber-framed Walls, Weatherboard, Plywood or Fibre-cement Cladding,

Staggered Studs 120 mm Top/Bottom Plate, R3.2 Bulk Insulation

1. External cladding
2. Breathable building membrane
3. R3.2 Bulk Insulation
4. Timber studs
5. Vapour barrier (as required)
6. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Weatherboard
70 mm framing 3.3 3.5
90 mm framing 3.2 3.4
Plywood cladding
70 mm framing 3.2 3.4
90 mm framing 3.1 3.3
Fibre-cement cladding
70 mm framing 3.1 3.4
90 mm framing 3.1 3.3

40 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

W33. Timber-framed Walls, Weatherboard, Plywood or Fibre-Cement Cladding,
Staggered Studs 120 mm Top/Bottom Plate, R3.5 Bulk Insulation

1. External cladding
2. Breathable building membrane
3. R3.5 Bulk Insulation
4. Timber Studs
5. Vapour barrier (as required)
6. Plasterboard 10 mm

Wall Material Total R-value for wall system (m2K/W)

Heat flow IN Heat flow OUT
Weatherboard
70 mm framing 3.5 3.7
90 mm framing 3.4 3.6
Plywood cladding
70 mm framing 3.4 3.6
90 mm framing 3.3 3.6
Fibre-cement cladding
70 mm framing 3.3 3.6
90 mm framing 3.3 3.5

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 41

 Suspended
Timber Floors
No Sub-Floor Walls

timber floor

floor joist
42 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements
 Explanation of Tables
Suspended Timber Floors, No Sub-floor Walls
R-values of suspended floor elements are calculated in accordance with AS 4859.1 and ISO 13770. Values
are given for heat flow DOWN and UP and two sub-floor heights. It should be noted that conditions different
to the assumptions used in the calculations would result in different R-values.
When the ground surface is sloping use the average under-floor height. For intermediate heights
interpolate R-value between 0.6 m and 2.4 m.
A Heat flow DOWN means the heat flows from the internal spaces of the building (in cold weather).
B Heat flow UP means the heat flows into the internal spaces of the building (in hot weather).
Joists at 450 mm or 600 mm centres.
RFL may be corrugated as shown or sheets fixed to joists.

F1. Bare Timber, No Sub-Floor Walls

1. 19 mm timber floor
2. Timber floor joist

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

A Heat flow DOWN B Heat flow UP
Softwood
0.6 m height 0.54 0.43
2.4 m height 0.54 0.42
Particleboard
0.6 m height 0.51 0.39
2.4 m height 0.51 0.39
Hardwood
0.6 m height 0.47 0.35
2.4 m height 0.47 0.35
Foil-backed particleboard
0.6 m height 1.12 0.52
2.4 m height 1.12 0.52

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 43

 F1. Bare Timber, No Sub-floor Walls

1. 19 mm timber floor
2. Timber floor joist

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Softwood
0.6 m height 0.54 0.43
2.4 m height 0.54 0.42
Particleboard
0.6 m height 0.51 0.39
2.4 m height 0.51 0.39
Hardwood
0.6 m height 0.47 0.35
2.4 m height 0.47 0.35
Foil-backed particleboard
0.6 m height 1.12 0.52
2.4 m height 1.12 0.52

F2. Carpeted Timber, No Sub-floor Walls

1. 10 mm carpet
2. 10 mm underlay
3. 19 mm timber floor
4. Timber floor joist

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Softwood
0.6 m height 0.95 0.83
2.4 m height 0.95 0.83
Particleboard
0.6 m height 0.92 0.80
2.4 m height 0.91 0.80
Hardwood
0.6 m height 0.88 0.76
2.4 m height 0.87 0.76
Foil-backed particleboard
0.6 m height 1.52 0.92
2.4 m height 1.52 0.92

44 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

F3. Bare Timber, No Sub-floor Walls

1. Tiles
2. Tile underlay
3. 19 mm timber floor
4. Timber floor joist

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Ceramic tiles (vinyl)
softwood 0.55 0.44
particleboard 0.52 0.40
hardwood 0.48 0.36
foil-backed particleboard 1.13 0.53
Cork tiles
softwood 0.62 0.50
particleboard 0.59 0.47
hardwood 0.54 0.43
foil-backed particleboard 1.20 0.59
Linoleum
softwood 0.57 0.45
particleboard 0.54 0.42
hardwood 0.50 0.38
foil-backed particleboard 1.15 0.55

F4. Floating Timber, No Sub-floor Walls

1. 12 mm floating timber
2. 19 mm particleboard/plywood
3. Timber floor joist

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Plywood
0.6 m height 0.59 0.47
2.4 m height 0.59 0.47
Particleboard
0.6 m height 0.61 0.50
2.4 m height 0.61 0.49
Foil-backed particleboard
0.6 m height 1.22 0.62
2.4 m height 1.22 0.62

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 45

 F5. Bare Timber, No Sub-floor Walls, Bulk Insulation Between Joists

1. 19 mm timber floor
2. Air space
3. Bulk insulation
4. Timber floor joist
5. Mesh

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Softwood
R1.5 (90 mm joists) 2.03 1.89
R2.0 (90 mm joists) 2.40 2.26
R2.5 (90 mm joists) 2.72 2.57
R3.0 (120 mm joists) 3.19 3.04
Particleboard
R1.5 (90 mm joists) 2.00 1.86
R2.0 (90 mm joists) 2.37 2.22
R2.5 (90 mm joists) 2.68 2.53
R3.0 (120 mm joists) 3.15 3.00
Hardwood
R1.5 (90 mm joists) 1.96 1.82
R2.0 (90 mm joists) 2.32 2.18
R2.5 (90 mm joists) 2.63 2.48
R3.0 (120 mm joists) 3.10 2.95

46 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

F6. Carpeted Timber, No Sub-floor Walls, Bulk Insulation Between Joists

1. 19 mm timber floor
2. Air space
3. Bulk insulation
4. Timber floor joist
5. Mesh

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Softwood
R1.5 (90 mm joists) 2.46 2.32
R2.0 (90 mm joists) 2.84 2.71
R2.5 (90 mm joists) 3.18 3.04
R3.0 (120 mm joists) 3.65 3.1
Particleboard
R1.5 (90 mm joists) 2.42 2.29
R2.0 (90 mm joists) 2.81 2.67
R2.5 (90 mm joists) 3.14 3.01
R3.0 (120 mm joists) 3.62 3.48
Hardwood
R1.5 (90 mm joists) 2.38 2.25
R2.0 (90 mm joists) 2.76 2.63
R2.5 (90 mm joists) 3.10 2.96
R3.0 (120 mm joists) 3.57 3.43

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 47

 F7. Tiled Timber, No Sub-floor Walls, Bulk Insulation Between Joists

1. 6 mm tiles
2. 19 mm timber floor
3. Air space
4. Bulk insulation
5. Timber floor joist
6. Mesh

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Softwood
R1.5 (90 mm joists) 2.05 1.91
R2.0 (90 mm joists) 2.41 2.27
R2.5 (90 mm joists) 2.73 2.58
R3.0 (120 mm joists) 3.20 3.05
Particleboard
R1.5 (90 mm joists) 2.01 1.88
R2.0 (90 mm joists) 2.38 2.23
R2.5 (90 mm joists) 2.69 2.55
R3.0 (120 mm joists) 3.16 3.01
Hardwood
R1.5 (90 mm joists) 1.97 1.83
R2.0 (90 mm joists) 2.33 2.19
R2.5 (90 mm joists) 2.64 2.50
R3.0 (120 mm joists) 3.11 2.96

48 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

F8. Bare Timber, No Sub-floor Walls, Plywood Under Joists

1. 19 mm timber floor
2. Timber floor joist
3. Air space (non-reflective)
4. Underlining

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Softwood
0.6 m height 0.75 0.58
2.4 m height 0.74 0.58
Particleboard
0.6 m height 0.72 0.55
2.4 m height 0.71 0.55
Hardwood
0.6 m height 0.67 0.51
2.4 m height 0.68 0.51
Foil-backed particleboard
0.6 m height 2.06 0.9
2.4 m height 2.06 0.9

F9. Carpeted Timber, No Sub-floor Walls, Plywood Under Joists

1. 10 mm carpet
2. 10 mm underlay
3. 19 mm timber floor
4. Timber floor joist
5. Air space (non-reflective)
6. Underlining

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Softwood
0.6 m height 1.15 0.99
2.4 m height 1.15 0.99
Particleboard
0.6 m height 1.12 0.96
2.4 m height 1.12 0.95
Hardwood
0.6 m height 1.08 0.92
2.4 m height 1.08 0.91
Foil-backed particleboard
0.6 m height 2.50 1.33
2.4 m height 2.50 1.33

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 49

 F10. Tiled Timber, No Sub-floor Walls, Plywood Under Joists

1. 6 mm tiles
2. 19 mm timber floor
3. Timber floor joist
4. Air space (non-reflective)
5. Underlining

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Softwood
0.6 m height 0.76 0.59
2.4 m height 0.76 0.59
Particleboard
0.6 m height 0.73 0.56
2.4 m height 0.72 0.56
Hardwood
0.6 m height 0.69 0.52
2.4 m height 0.68 0.52
Foil-backed particleboard
0.6 m height 2.08 0.91
2.4 m height 2.08 0.91

50 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

Suspended
Timber Floors
Enclosed Sub-Floor,
Cavity Disconnected

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 51

 Explanation of Tables
Suspended Timber Floors, Enclosed sub-floor
R-values of suspended floor elements are calculated in accordance with AS 4859.1 and ISO 13770. Values are given
for heat flow DOWN and UP that correspond to open and enclosed sub-floors with three ventilation conditions
(see BCA, Table 3.4.1.2), two sub-floor heights. A clay soil is assumed for all calculations. It should be noted that
conditions different to the assumptions used in the calculations may result in different R-values.
Notes:
1. When the ground surface is sloping use the average under-floor height. For intermediate heights interpolate
R-value between 0.6 m and 2.4 m.
2. Zone 1, Zone 2 and Zone 3 refer to sub-floor ventilations rates from BCA Part 3.4.1.
3. A Sub-Floor Ventilation [Zone A, Zone B, Zone C]. Heat flow DOWN means the heat flows
from the internal spaces of the building (in cold weather).
4. B Sub-Floor Ventilation [Zone A, Zone B, Zone C]. Heat flow UP means the heat flows
into the internal spaces of the building (in hot weather).
5. Joists at 450 mm or 600 mm centres.
6. RFL may be corrugated as shown or sheets fixed to joists.
7. Calculations are based sub-floor walls of single brick. Sub-floor walls of other materials will affect the Total R-value.
8. CAVITY CONNECTED refers to situations where air flow is possible from the sub-floor through the wall cavity.
9. CAVITY DISCONNECTED OR TIMBER FRAME refers to situations where air flow from sub-floor to the roof via a
wall cavity is prevented. This is achieved by cavity flashing or similar (see Figure 2 (page 9) – Cavity Disconnection
Options) OR where the construction is of timber frame with lightweight cladding such as weatherboards
or fibre-cement

F11. Bare Timber, No Sub-Floor Walls

1. 19 mm timber floor
2. Timber floor joist
3. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

A Heat flow DOWN B Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 0.75 0.75 0.74 0.63 0.63 0.63
2.4 m height 0.68 0.68 0.67 0.56 0.56 0.56
Particleboard
0.6 m height 0.72 0.72 0.71 0.61 0.60 0.59
2.4 m height 0.65 0.64 0.64 0.53 0.53 0.52
Hardwood
0.6 m height 0.68 0.68 0.67 0.57 0.56 0.55
2.4 m height 0.61 0.60 0.60 0.49 0.49 0.48

52 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

F11. Bare Timber, No Sub-floor Walls

1. 19mm timber floor

2. Timber floor joist
3. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 0.75 0.75 0.74 0.63 0.63 0.63
2.4 m height 0.68 0.68 0.67 0.56 0.56 0.56
Particleboard
0.6 m height 0.72 0.72 0.71 0.61 0.60 0.59
2.4 m height 0.65 0.64 0.64 0.53 0.53 0.52
Hardwood
0.6 m height 0.68 0.68 0.67 0.57 0.56 0.55
2.4 m height 0.61 0.60 0.60 0.49 0.49 0.48
Foil-backed particleboard
0.6 m height 1.81 1.74 1.69 1.18 1.11 1.06
2.4 m height 1.42 1.42 1.39 0.81 0.79 0.78

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 53

 F12. Carpeted Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame

1. 10 mm carpet
2. 10 mm underlay
3. 19 mm timber floor
4. Timber floor joist
5. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 1.67 1.60 1.50 1.54 1.47 1.37
2.4 m height 1.23 1.22 1.21 1.12 1.10 1.09
Particleboard
0.6 m height 1.64 1.57 1.47 1.51 1.43 1.38
2.4 m height 1.20 1.19 1.17 1.08 1.06 1.06
Hardwood
0.6 m height 1.60 1.53 1.43 1.47 1.39 1.30
2.4 m height 1.16 1.15 1.13 1.04 1.02 1.02
Foil-backed particleboard
0.6 m height 2.21 2.14 2.09 1.58 1.52 1.47
2.4 m height 1.82 1.81 1.79 1.21 1.20 1.19

54 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

F13. Tiled Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame

1. 6 mm tiles
2. 19 mm timber floor
3. Tile underlay
4. Timber floor joist
5. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 1.22 1.16 1.10 1.09 1.03 0.98
2.4 m height 0.84 0.82 0.81 0.73 0.71 0.69
Particleboard
0.6 m height 1.19 1.13 1.07 1.06 1.00 0.94
2.4 m height 0.81 0.79 0.78 0.70 0.67 0.66
Hardwood
0.6 m height 1.15 1.08 1.03 1.02 0.95 0.90
2.4 m height 0.77 0.75 0.74 0.65 0.64 0.62
Foil-backed particleboard
0.6 m height 1.80 1.74 1.68 1.18 1.12 1.07
2.4 m height 1.42 1.40 1.39 0.81 0.80 0.79

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 55

 F14. Bare Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Over Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame

1. 19 mm timber floor
2. Air space (reflective)
3. RFL
4. Timber floor joist
5. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 2.43 2.37 2.31 1.55 1.48 1.43
2.4 m height 2.05 2.03 2.02 1.18 1.16 1.15
Particleboard
0.6 m height 2.40 2.34 2.28 1.51 1.45 1.40
2.4 m height 2.02 2.00 1.99 1.15 1.13 1.12
Hardwood
0.6 m height 2.36 2.29 2.24 1.48 1.41 1.36
2.4 m height 1.98 1.96 1.95 1.11 1.09 1.08

F15. Bare Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Between Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame

1. 19 mm timber floor
2. Air space (reflective)
3. RFL
4. Timber floor joist
5. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 2.80 2.73 2.68 1.69 1.60 1.55
2.4 m height 2.41 2.40 2.38 1.30 1.28 1.27
Particleboard
0.6 m height 2.76 2.70 2.64 1.63 1.57 1.52
2.4 m height 2.38 2.36 2.35 1.26 1.25 1.23
Hardwood
0.6 m height 2.72 2.65 2.00 1.59 1.52 1.47
2.4 m height 2.33 2.32 2.31 1.22 1.20 1.19

56 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

F16. Bare Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Under Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame

1. 19mm timber floor

2. Air space (reflective)
3. RFL
4. Timber floor joist
5. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 2.94 2.88 2.82 1.68 1.62 1.56
2.4 m height 2.56 2.4 2.53 1.31 1.29 1.28
Particleboard
0.6 m height 2.91 2.84 2.79 1.64 1.58 1.57
2.4 m height 2.53 2.51 2.50 1.27 1.26 1.25
Hardwood
0.6 m height 2.87 2.80 2.75 1.60 1.54 1.49
2.4 m height 2.48 2.47 2.46 1.23 1.22 1.20

F17. Carpeted Timber, Sub-Floor Walls, RFL Over Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame

1. 10 mm carpet
2. 10 mm underlay
3. 19 mm timber floor
4. Air space (reflective)
5. RFL
6. Timber floor joist
7. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 2.84 2.78 2.72 1.95 1.88 1.83
2.4 m height 2.46 2.44 2.43 1.58 1.56 1.55
Particleboard
0.6 m height 2.81 2.74 2.69 1.91 1.85 1.80
2.4 m height 2.43 2.41 2.40 1.54 1.53 1.52
Hardwood
0.6 m height 2.77 2.70 2.65 1.87 1.81 1.76
2.4 m height 2.39 2.37 2.36 1.50 1.49 1.48

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 57

 F18. Carpeted Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Between Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame

1. 10 mm carpet
2. 10 mm underlay
3. 19 mm timber floor
4. Air space (reflective)
5. RFL
6. Timber floor joist
7. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 2.81 2.74 2.69 1.70 1.61 1.56
2.4 m height 2.42 2.42 2.39 1.31 1.29 1.28
Particleboard
0.6m height 2.77 2.71 2.65 1.65 1.58 1.53
2.4 m height 2.39 2.37 2.36 1.27 1.26 1.24
Hardwood
0.6 m height 2.73 2.67 2.01 1.60 1.53 1.48
2.4 m height 2.34 2.33 2.32 1.22 1.21 1.20

F19. Carpeted Timber, Sub-Floor Walls, RFL Under Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame

1. 10 mm carpet
2. 10 mm underlay
3. 19 mm timber floor
4. Air space (reflective)
5. RFL
6. Timber floor joist
7. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 3.35 3.29 3.23 2.08 2.02 1.96
2.4 m height 2.97 2.81 2.94 1.71 1.69 1.68
Particleboard
0.6 m height 3.32 3.24 3.20 2.04 1.98 1.97
2.4 m height 2.94 2.92 2.91 1.66 1.66 1.65
Hardwood
0.6 m height 3.28 3.21 3.16 1.99 1.94 1.89
2.4 m height 2.89 2.88 2.87 1.62 1.62 1.60

58 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

F20. Tiled Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Over Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame

1. 6 mm tiles
2. 19 mm timber floor
3. Air space (reflective)
4. RFL
5. Timber floor joist
6. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 2.44 2.38 2.32 1.56 1.49 1.44
2.4 m height 2.06 2.05 2.03 1.19 1.17 1.16
Particleboard
0.6 m height 2.41 2.35 2.29 1.53 1.46 1.41
2.4 m height 2.03 2.01 2.00 1.16 1.14 1.13
Hardwood
0.6 m height 2.37 2.31 2.25 1.49 1.42 1.371
2.4 m height 1.99 1.97 1.96 1.11 1.10 1.09

F21. Tiled Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Under Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame

1. 6 mm tiles
2. 19 mm timber floor
3. Air space (reflective)
4. RFL
5. Timber floor joist
6. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 2.81 2.74 2.69 1.70 1.61 1.56
2.4 m height 2.42 2.42 2.39 1.31 1.29 1.28
Particleboard
0.6 m height 2.77 2.71 2.65 1.65 1.58 1.53
2.4 m height 2.39 2.37 2.36 1.27 1.26 1.24
Hardwood
0.6 m height 2.73 2.67 2.01 1.60 1.53 1.48
2.4 m height 2.34 2.33 2.32 1.22 1.21 1.20

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 59

 F22. Tiled Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Under Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame

1. 6 mm tiles
2. 19 mm timber floor
3. Air space (reflective)
4. RFL
5. Timber floor joist
6. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 2.95 2.89 2.83 1.69 1.63 1.57
2.4 m height 2.57 2.42 2.54 1.32 1.30 1.29
Particleboard
0.6 m height 2.92 2.85 2.80 1.66 1.59 1.58
2.4 m height 2.54 2.52 2.51 1.28 1.27 1.26
Hardwood
0.6 m height 2.88 2.82 2.76 1.61 1.55 1.50
2.4 m height 2.49 2.48 2.47 1.23 1.23 1.21

60 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

F23. Bare Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Bulk Insulation Between Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame

1. 19 mm timber floor
2. Bulk insulation
3. Timber floor joist
4. Mesh
5. Sub-floor wall

Height 0.6 m
Joists @450 or 600 crs
NOTE: R3.0 - 120 mm joists

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
R1.5 2.70 2.63 2.58 2.54 2.48 2.43
R2.0 2.99 2.92 2.87 2.84 2.78 2.72
R2.5 3.39 3.32 3.27 3.23 3.16 3.11
R3.0 3.86 3.79 3.74 3.69 3.63 3.58
Particleboard
R1.5 2.66 2.60 2.54 2.66 2.45 2.40
R2.0 2.95 2.89 2.83 2.80 2.74 2.69
R2.5 3.35 3.29 3.23 3.19 3.12 3.07
R3.0 3.82 3.76 3.70 3.65 3.59 3.54
Hardwood
R1.5 2.62 2.56 2.50 2.47 2.40 2.35
R2.0 2.91 2.84 2.79 2.76 2.69 2.64
R2.5 3.30 3.24 3.18 3.14 3.07 3.02
R3.0 3.77 3.71 3.65 3.60 3.54 3.49

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 61

 F24. Carpeted Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Bulk Insulation Between Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame

1. 10 mm carpet
2. 10 mm underlay
3. 19 mm timber floor
4. Bulk insulation
5. Timber floor joist
6. Mesh
7. Sub-floor wall
Height 0.6 m
Joists @450 or 600 crs
NOTE: R3.0 - 120 mm joists

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
R1.5 3.12 3.05 3.00 2.97 2.91 2.85
R2.0 3.42 3.36 3.30 3.28 3.22 3.17
R2.5 3.85 3.79 3.73 3.70 3.64 3.58
R3.0 4.32 4.26 4.20 4.17 4.10 3.97
Particleboard
R1.5 3.09 3.02 2.96 2.94 2.87 2.82
R2.0 3.39 3.32 3.27 3.25 3.18 3.13
R2.5 3.82 3.75 3.70 3.68 3.60 3.55
R3.0 4.29 4.22 4.17 4.13 4.07 4.01
Hardwood
R1.5 3.04 2.98 2.92 2.89 2.83 2.78
R2.0 3.35 3.28 3.23 3.20 3.14 3.09
R2.5 3.77 3.71 3.65 3.62 3.55 3.50
R3.0 4.24 4.18 4.12 4.08 4.02 3.97

62 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

F25. Tiled Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Bulk Insulation Between Joists, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame

1. 6 mm tiles
2. 19 mm timber floor
3. Bulk insulation
4. Timber floor joist
5. Mesh
6. Sub-floor wall

Height 0.6 m
Joists @450 or 600 crs
NOTE: R3.0 - 120 mm joists

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
R1.5 2.71 2.64 2.59 2.55 2.49 2.44
R2.0 3.00 2.93 2.88 2.85 2.79 2.73
R2.5 3.40 3.33 3.28 3.24 3.17 3.12
R3.0 3.87 3.80 3.75 3.70 3.64 3.59
Particleboard
R1.5 2.61 2.61 2.55 2.67 2.46 2.41
R2.0 2.96 2.90 2.84 2.81 2.75 2.70
R2.5 3.36 3.30 3.24 3.20 3.13 3.08
R3.0 3.83 3.77 3.71 3.66 3.60 3.55
Hardwood
R1.5 2.63 2.57 2.51 2.48 2.41 2.36
R2.0 2.92 2.85 2.80 2.77 2.70 2.65
R2.5 3.31 3.25 3.19 3.15 3.08 3.03
R3.0 3.79 3.72 3.67 3.62 3.55 3.50

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 63

 F26. Bare Timber, R1.5 Insulated Sub-floor Walls, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame

1. 19 mm timber floor
2. Timber floor joist
3. Sub-floor wall + R1.5

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 1.60 1.45 1.33 1.45 1.30 1.19
2.4 m height 1.28 1.20 1.13 1.15 1.06 1.00
Particleboard
0.6 m height 1.57 1.42 1.30 1.42 1.27 1.16
2.4 m height 1.25 1.16 1.09 1.12 1.03 0.97
Hardwood
0.6 m height 1.53 1.38 1.26 1.37 1.23 1.12
2.4 m height 1.21 1.12 1.05 1.08 0.99 0.93
Foil-backed particleboard
0.6 m height 2.18 2.02 1.91 1.54 1.39 1.29
2.4 m height 1.86 1.77 1.70 1.24 1.16 1.09

64 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

F27. Carpeted Timber, R1.5 Insulated Sub-floor Walls, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame

1. 10 mm carpet
2. 10 mm underlay
3. 19 mm timber floor
4. Timber floor joist
5. Sub-floor wall + R1.5

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 2.01 1.86 1.74 1.86 1.71 1.6
2.4 m height 1.69 1.61 1.54 1.56 1.47 1.41
Particleboard
0.6 m height 1.98 1.83 1.71 1.83 1.68 1.57
2.4 m height 1.66 1.57 1.50 1.53 1.44 1.38
Hardwood
0.6 m height 1.94 1.79 1.67 1.78 1.64 1.53
2.4 m height 1.62 1.53 1.46 1.49 1.40 1.34
Foil-backed particleboard
0.6 m height 2.59 2.43 2.32 1.95 1.80 1.0
2.4 m height 2.27 2.18 2.11 1.65 1.57 1.50

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 65

 F28. Tiled Timber, R1.5 Insulated Sub-floor Walls, Cavity Disconnected or Timber Frame

1. 6 mm tiles
2. 19 mm timber floor
3. Tile underlay
4. Timber floor joist
5. Sub-floor wall + R1.5

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 1.61 1.46 1.34 1.46 1.31 1.21
2.4 m height 1.29 1.21 1.14 1.16 1.08 1.01
Particleboard
0.6 m height 1.58 1.43 1.34 1.43 1.28 1.17
2.4 m height 1.26 1.17 1.10 1.13 1.04 0.98
Hardwood
0.6 m height 1.54 1.39 1.27 1.39 1.24 1.13
2.4 m height 1.22 1.13 1.06 1.09 1.00 0.94
Foil-backed particleboard
0.6 m height 2.19 2.03 1.92 1.55 1.40 1.30
2.4 m height 1.87 1.78 1.71 1.25 1.17 1.10

66 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

Suspended
Timber Floors
Enclosed Sub-Floor,
Cavity Connected

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 67

 F29. Bare Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Cavity Connected

1. 19 mm timber floor
2. Timber floor joist
3. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 0.75 0.75 0.74 0.63 0.63 0.63
2.4 m height 0.68 0.68 0.67 0.56 0.56 0.56
Particleboard
0.6 m height 0.72 0.72 0.71 0.61 0.60 0.59
2.4 m height 0.65 0.64 0.64 0.53 0.53 0.52
Hardwood
0.6 m height 0.68 0.68 0.67 0.57 0.56 0.55
2.4 m height 0.61 0.60 0.60 0.49 0.49 0.48

F30. Carpeted Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Cavity Connected

1. 10 mm carpet
2. 10 mm underlay
3. 19 mm timber floor
4. Timber floor joist
5. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 1.16 1.16 1.14 1.05 1.04 1.03
2.4 m height 1.09 1.08 1.08 0.97 0.97 0.96
Particleboard
0.6 m height 1.13 1.12 1.11 1.02 1.01 1.00
2.4 m height 1.05 1.05 1.05 0.94 0.94 0.93
Hardwood
0.6 m height 1.09 1.08 1.07 0.98 0.97 0.96
2.4 m height 1.01 1.01 1.01 0.90 0.90 0.89

68 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

F31. Tiled Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Cavity Connected

1. 6 mm tiles
2. 19 mm timber floor
3. Tile underlay
4. Timber floor joist
5. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 0.76 0.75 0.75 0.64 0.64 0.63
2.4 m height 0.69 0.68 0.68 0.57 0.57 0.57
Particleboard
0.6 m height 0.73 0.72 0.72 0.61 0.61 0.60
2.4 m height 0.66 0.65 0.65 0.54 0.54 0.54
Hardwood
0.6 m height 0.69 0.68 0.67 0.57 0.56 0.56
2.4 m height 0.62 0.61 0.61 0.50 0.50 0.49

F32. Bare Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Over Joists, Cavity Connected

1. 19 mm timber floor
2. Air space (reflective)
3. RFL
4. Timber floor joist
5. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 1.97 1.96 1.96 1.10 1.09 1.09
2.4 m height 1.90 1.90 1.89 1.03 1.03 1.02
Particleboard
0.6 m height 1.94 1.93 1.93 1.07 1.07 1.06
2.4 m height 1.87 1.86 1.86 1.00 1.00 0.99
Hardwood
0.6 m height 1.90 1.89 1.88 1.03 1.02 1.02
2.4 m height 1.83 1.82 1.82 0.96 0.96 0.95

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 69

 F33. Bare Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Between Joists, Cavity Connected

1. 19 mm timber floor
2. Air space (reflective)
3. RFL
4. Timber floor joist
5. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 2.33 2.33 2.32 1.22 1.21 1.21
2.4 m height 2.26 2.26 2.26 1.15 1.15 1.14
Particleboard
0.6 m height 2.30 2.29 2.29 1.19 1.18 1.17
2.4 m height 2.23 2.22 2.22 1.12 1.11 1.11
Hardwood
0.6 m height 2.26 2.25 2.24 1.14 1.13 1.13
2.4 m height 2.18 2.18 2.18 1.07 1.07 1.07

F34. Bare Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Under Joists, Cavity Connected

1. 19 mm timber floor
2. Air space (reflective)
3. RFL
4. Timber floor joist
5. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 2.48 2.47 2.47 1.23 1.23 1.22
2.4 m height 2.41 2.41 2.40 1.16 1.16 1.16
Particleboard
0.6 m height 2.45 2.44 2.43 1.20 1.19 1.18
2.4 m height 2.38 2.37 2.37 1.13 1.12 1.12
Hardwood
0.6 m height 2.41 2.40 2.39 1.15 1.15 1.14
2.4 m height 2.34 2.33 2.33 1.08 1.08 1.08

70 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

F35. Carpeted Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Over Joists, Cavity Connected

1. 10 mm carpet
2. 10 mm underlay
3. 19 mm timber floor
4. Air space (reflective)
5.RFL
6. Timber floor joist
7. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 2.38 2.37 2.37 1.50 1.49 1.49
2.4 m height 2.31 2.31 2.30 1.43 1.43 1.42
Particleboard
0.6 m height 2.35 2.34 2.33 1.47 1.46 1.45
2.4 m height 2.28 2.27 2.27 1.40 1.39 1.39
Hardwood
0.6 m height 2.31 2.30 2.29 1.43 1.42 1.42
2.4 m height 2.24 2.23 2.23 1.36 1.36 1.35

F36. Carpeted Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Between Joists, Cavity Connected

1. 10 mm carpet
2. 10 mm underlay
3. 19 mm timber floor
4. Air space (reflective)
5.RFL
6. Timber floor joist
7. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 2.34 2.35 2.33 1.23 1.23 1.22
2.4 m height 2.27 2.27 2.27 1.16 1.16 1.15
Particleboard
0.6 m height 2.31 2.30 2.30 1.20 1.18 1.18
2.4 m height 2.24 2.24 2.24 1.13 1.12 1.12
Hardwood
0.6 m height 2.27 2.26 2.26 1.15 1.14 1.14
2.4 m height 2.19 2.19 2.19 1.08 1.08 1.08

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 71

 F37. Carpeted Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Under Joists, Cavity Connected

1. 10 mm carpet
2. 10 mm underlay
3. 19 mm timber floor
4. Air space (reflective)
5.RFL
6. Timber floor joist
7. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 2.89 2.88 2.88 1.63 1.63 1.62
2.4 m height 2.82 2.82 2.81 1.56 1.56 1.56
Particleboard
0.6 m height 2.86 2.85 2.83 1.60 1.58 1.57
2.4 m height 2.79 2.78 2.78 1.53 1.51 1.52
Hardwood
0.6 m height 2.82 2.81 2.80 1.55 1.55 1.54
2.4 m height 2.75 2.74 2.74 1.48 1.48 1.48

F38. Tiled Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Over Joists, Cavity Connected

1. 6m m tiles
2. 19 mm timber floor
3. Air space (reflective)
4.RFL
5. Timber floor joist
6. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 1.98 1.98 1.97 1.11 1.11 1.10
2.4 m height 1.91 1.91 1.90 1.04 1.04 1.03
Particleboard
0.6 m height 1.95 1.94 1.94 1.08 1.07 1.07
2.4 m height 1.88 1.88 1.87 1.01 1.00 1.00
Hardwood
0.6 m height 1.91 1.90 1.90 1.04 1.03 1.03
2.4 m height 1.84 1.83 1.83 0.97 0.97 0.96

72 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

F39. Tiled Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Under Joists, Cavity Connected

1. 6 mm tiles
2. 19 mm timber floor
3. Air space (reflective)
4.RFL
5. Timber floor joist
6. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 2.34 2.35 2.33 1.23 1.23 1.22
2.4 m height 2.27 2.27 2.27 1.16 1.16 1.15
Particleboard
0.6 m height 2.31 2.30 2.30 1.20 1.18 1.18
2.4 m height 2.24 2.24 2.24 1.13 1.12 1.12
Hardwood
0.6 m height 2.27 2.26 2.26 1.15 1.14 1.14
2.4 m height 2.19 2.19 2.19 1.08 1.08 1.08

F40. Tiled Timber, Sub-floor Walls, RFL Under Joists, Cavity Connected

1. 6 mm tiles
2. 19 mm timber floor
3. Air space (reflective)
4.RFL
5. Timber floor joist
6. Sub-floor wall

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
0.6 m height 2.49 2.49 2.48 1.24 1.25 1.23
2.4 m height 2.42 2.42 2.41 1.17 1.17 1.17
Particleboard
0.6 m height 2.46 2.45 2.44 1.21 1.19 1.19
2.4 m height 2.39 2.39 2.39 1.14 1.13 1.13
Hardwood
0.6 m height 2.42 2.41 2.41 1.16 1.16 1.15
2.4 m height 2.35 2.34 2.34 1.09 1.09 1.09

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 73

 F41. Bare Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Bulk Insulation Between Joists, Cavity Connected

1. 19 mm timber floor
2. Bulk insulation
3. Timber floor joist
4. Mesh
5. Sub-floor wall

Height 0.6 m
Joists @450 or 600 crs
NOTE: R3.0 - 120 mm joists

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
R1.5 2.24 2.23 2.22 2.10 2.09 2.09
R2.0 2.53 2.52 2.51 2.39 2.39 2.38
R2.5 2.93 2.90 2.91 2.78 2.77 2.77
R3.0 3.40 3.39 3.38 3.25 3.24 3.28
Particleboard
R1.5 2.20 2.19 2.22 2.06 2.06 2.09
R2.0 2.49 2.49 2.56 2.36 2.36 2.42
R2.5 2.89 2.86 2.88 2.74 2.73 2.73
R3.0 3.36 3.35 3.35 3.21 3.20 3.19
Hardwood
R1.5 2.16 2.15 2.15 2.02 2.03 2.01
R2.0 2.45 2.44 2.43 2.31 2.30 2.30
R2.5 2.84 2.83 2.83 2.69 2.68 2.68
R3.0 3.31 3.30 3.30 3.16 3.15 3.14

74 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements

F42. Carpeted Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Bulk Insulation Between Joists, Cavity Connected

1. 19 mm timber floor
2. Bulk insulation
3. Timber floor joist
4. Mesh
5. Sub-floor wall

Height 0.6 m
Joists @450 or 600 crs
NOTE: R3.0 - 120 mm joists

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
R1.5 2.66 2.65 2.64 2.42 2.52 2.51
R2.0 2.96 2.95 2.95 2.83 2.83 2.82
R2.5 3.39 3.38 3.38 3.23 3.25 3.24
R3.0 3.86 3.86 3.85 3.60 3.71 3.71
Particleboard
R1.5 2.62 2.62 2.61 2.39 2.48 2.48
R2.0 2.93 2.92 2.91 2.80 2.79 2.79
R2.5 3.36 3.35 3.34 3.19 3.21 3.20
R3.0 3.83 3.82 3.81 3.56 3.68 3.67
Hardwood
R1.5 2.58 2.57 2.57 2.35 2.44 2.43
R2.0 2.89 2.88 2.87 2.76 2.75 2.75
R2.5 3.31 3.30 3.30 3.15 3.17 3.16
R3.0 3.78 3.77 3.77 3.52 3.63 3.20

R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements 75

 F43. Tiled Timber, Sub-floor Walls, Bulk Insulation Between Joists, Cavity Connected

1. 6 mm tiles
2. 19 mm timber floor
3. Bulk insulation
4. Timber floor joist
5. Mesh
6. Sub-floor wall

Height 0.6 m
Joists @450 or 600 crs
NOTE: R3.0 - 120 mm joists

Floor Material Total R-value for floor system (m2K/W)

Heat flow DOWN Heat flow UP
Zone A Zone B Zone C Zone A Zone B Zone C
Softwood
R1.5 2.25 2.24 2.23 2.11 2.10 2.10
R2.0 2.54 2.53 2.52 2.40 2.40 2.39
R2.5 2.94 2.92 2.91 2.79 2.78 2.78
R3.0 3.41 3.40 3.40 3.26 3.25 3.25
Particleboard
R1.5 2.21 2.20 2.23 2.07 2.07 2.10
R2.0 2.59 2.57 2.57 2.44 2.43 2.43
R2.5 2.90 2.87 2.89 2.75 2.74 2.74
R3.0 3.37 3.36 3.36 3.22 3.21 3.20
Hardwood
R1.5 2.17 2.16 2.16 2.03 2.04 2.02
R2.0 2.46 2.45 2.44 2.32 2.31 2.31
R2.5 2.85 2.84 2.84 2.70 2.69 2.69
R3.0 3.32 3.31 3.31 3.17 3.16 3.15

76 R-values for Timber-framed Building Elements