Introducing the X-Bracket for Batt Insulation!
A Quick Background on XB-Bracket Technology
As building science professionals, we are constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in terms of performance, cost-efficiency, and constructability. That’s why we’re excited to introduce a new addition to our X-Bracket product line – specifically engineered for use with batt insulation. Designed to enable true continuous insulation (CI) using cost- effective, readily available batt materials, this innovation rethinks the way soft insulation can be used on walls, roofs, and floors – without framing cavities.
Our original X-Bracket system, already in the market and Code Approved by DrJ Certification, was developed for use with blown-in and closed-cell spray foam. You can read more about the system here: X-Bracket Landing Page. These brackets are non-conductive and reduce thermal transfer by a factor of 250 compared to steel fasteners—making them a high-performance alternative in CI assemblies.
By definition, continuous insulation must span over structural members without thermal breaks caused by framing. While clips and fasteners are allowed by code, each penetration adds a thermal bridge. The X-Bracket for Batts preserves the performance advantage of CI while overcoming the long-standing issue: how to support soft insulation without compressing it.
The Problem with Current Practices
Traditional methods for installing furring strips over Rockwool batt or board insulation involve long structural screws (sometimes up to 10″) aligned with structural studs, a difficult and error-prone task. Moreover, this process compresses the insulation and creates thermal bridges which compromise system performance. Furring strips also require shimming to correct warping or inconsistent fastening surfaces, increasing labor and reducing precision.
Semi-rigid boards, like Comfortboard, offer a higher compressive strength, but still suffer from alignment issues, structural screw complexity, and poor load transfer without a continuous support plane. Current batt insulation use in CI applications is limited to horizontal surfaces like attics, where gravity naturally retains insulation—vertical applications remain virtually nonexistent due to sagging and lack of support.
What Makes the New XB-Bracket for Batts Different?
The new X-Bracket solves these challenges by providing a non-compressing, secure attachment surface for cladding systems while supporting batt insulation in a vertical or overhead orientation. Key features include:
· Integrated Support Flanges: These allow the batt to be slit rather than removed, maintaining insulation integrity.
· Stringline Insulation Retainer Cord: Wrapped horizontally this cord locks into integrated slots on the brackets and holds the batt in place, preventing sag.
· Non-Compression Mounting Surface: Furring strips attach securely to round mounting plates on the brackets, which are aligned and level, removing the need for shims and straightening.
· CI Without the Cavity: Allows soft insulation batts to be installed continuously without relying on traditional framing cavities.
· Ventilation Integration: Optional clip-on cross-flow ventilation chutes can be snapped behind furring strips to maintain airflow behind the cladding, even around penetrations.
This system maintains the high drying potential of insulation installed directly behind house wraps—up to 80 times faster than when behind OSB sheathing—leading to healthier walls with lower moisture risks.
Details for Project Success
Use Cases & Compatibility
The bracket system is versatile and suitable for use on walls, roofs, and floors. It supports a range
of blown-in insulation types and closed-cell spray foam.
With the X-Bracket for Batts, we are currently designing brackets for both 3.5″ and 5.5″ insulation depths, with flexibility to expand to other depths based on feedback.
Performance & Structural Considerations
· The bracket spacing can be adjusted to support different cladding weights or to accommodate different batt sizes.
· The insulation type does not significantly affect load-bearing performance.
· Testing for non-structural substrates (e.g., gypsum) is pending, with fastener optimization and adhesive options under consideration.
Installation Sequence
1. Framer installs X-Brackets to the exterior structure.
2. Insulator installs batts, slitting them to fit over the support flange.
3. Retainer cord is wrapped horizontally, locking into bracket slots to hold the batts in place.
4. Optional WRB is applied for wind and moisture protection.
5. Furring strips are mounted over the brackets without compressing the insulation.
6. Cladding is installed onto the furring strips.
Notably, this division of labor keeps framers and insulation contractors within their traditional scopes—solving a frequent coordination issue in the field.
Market Positioning
At an estimated installed cost of $1–$1.50 per square foot plus the cost of the batt insulation (materials + labor), the X-Bracket for Batts is highly competitive compared to rigid CI systems using Z-girts or hat channels. With labor efficiency of 200–300 sf per man-hour, installation time is comparable to conventional methods—but with better thermal performance and fewer headaches.
Currently, this product is scheduled for release in Fall 2025 through the InSoFast Sales Team with direct sales to contractors and consumers. Quotes and additional information are available through our website: InSoFast.com
We’re excited about the possibilities this system unlocks and look forward to hearing from the community. If you have thoughts, suggestions, or want to get involved in product testing or feedback, we’d love to connect through [email protected]. Let’s build smarter, healthier envelopes—together.
Have questions about an insulation project?
Call our Sales Team at 888-501-7899 to talk more about our solutions.
