The main objective of clause H1 in the New Zealand Building Code is to facilitate the efficient use of energy, as it applies to all residential dwellings and other buildings less than 300m². The change in the code implied higher levels of insulation.

Insulation is the single most effective thing that can be done to reduce the energy required to keep the house warm. The Building Code recommends minimum R-Values for new homes based on climate zones, but Pink Batts's recommendation would be to exceed these values; higher level of insulation reduces heat loss when heating, and heat gain when cooling buildings.

Pink Batts offers several products above the minimum R-Value recommended by the Building Code:

• For roof — Pink Batts Ultra range (R4.0, R4.6 and R5.0)
• For walls — Pink Batts Ultra range (R2.6 and R2.8) and Pink Batts 140mm wall (R3.2, R3.6 and R4.0)

Pink Batts products are designed to be friction fitted; that means no gaps, folds or tucks.

There are some considerations when installing insulation:

• Minimise the number of gaps — use less pieces per frame bay — even small gaps will minimise the overall thermal resistance
• Pink Batts products should not be compressed as it reduces its R-Value — areas for care are around plumbing and cables
• Some downlights and auxiliary equipment require specific clearance, more information can be found on Pink Batts's data sheets

The key to high performing insulation is correct installation. A bad installation means that the expected R-Value will not be achieved and the thermal performance will be affected.

When planning to install insulation, Pink Batts strongly recommends using PinkFit, as they are the largest installer in the new build market and the only installer offering a nationwide service. PinkFit guarantees that their installation will meet the requirements of NZS 4246. They offer the PinkFit Pre-Line promise: PinkFit installers promise that the Pink Batts insulation installed will pass the pre-line building inspection for installation or the PinkFit installer will reimburse users for the Territorial Authority re-inspection fee.