Background

The Pelham Arena, a community cornerstone hosting numerous sports and local events, required an upgrade to its under-slab insulation to improve energy efficiency and comfort. The goal was to enhance the facility's thermal performance, particularly in the ice rink area, to reduce energy costs and environmental impact. Trombetta Construction Materials recommended the use of XPS Rigid Insulation from Soprema/Owens Corning for its superior insulation properties and moisture resistance.

Challenge

The challenge lay in retrofitting the existing facility with a high-performance insulation solution without disrupting the arena's busy schedule. The project demanded a material that could be quickly installed and offer immediate improvements in thermal efficiency. Furthermore, the solution needed to possess high compressive strength to withstand the weight of the ice rink and associated equipment.

Solution

XPS Rigid Insulation was chosen for its excellent thermal resistance, moisture resistance, and durability. Its high compressive strength made it particularly suitable for the high-load area under the ice rink. The insulation's unique properties ensured that it would not only improve the arena's energy efficiency but also its longevity and performance.

Implementation

The project began with the careful removal of the existing flooring and subfloor layers to access the underlying slab. XPS Rigid Insulation panels were then cut to fit and installed directly onto the prepared substrate. The panels were laid out in a tightly fitted pattern to eliminate thermal bridging and maximize insulation coverage. Once the insulation was in place, the new flooring layers were installed, completing the under-slab insulation upgrade.