What is the term for materials that help mitigate the effects of temperature differences by reducing heat loss?

Insulation is the term used for materials designed to reduce heat loss and mitigate the effects of temperature differences. Its primary purpose is to slow down the transfer of heat between the inside and outside of a building, contributing significantly to energy efficiency. By trapping air, insulation reduces the amount of heat that escapes in winter and prevents unwanted heat from entering during summer.

In a residential building context, insulation is utilized in walls, attics, floors, and other areas, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor climate while reducing heating and cooling costs. Effective insulation can also improve the overall durability of a structure by minimizing moisture accumulation and condensation, which can lead to structural issues over time.

Heat shields, thermal barriers, and vapor barriers have different functions. Heat shields primarily reflect radiant heat, thermal barriers can reduce the transmission of heat but not specifically focused on insulation, and vapor barriers are primarily designed to control moisture and prevent water infiltration. Thus, while they each play important roles in building performance and comfort, none serve the specific purpose of reducing heat loss as effectively as insulation does.