Insulation

The idea behind insulation is simple: create a barrier that keeps outside weather out and inside conditions stable in your home. This translates into cozy warmth in winter, cool indoor temperatures in summer, and money savings on energy costs all year round. To accomplish this task, a consumer must become familiar with a variety of products. Each of these products possesses a different R-value that measures how resistant the material is to energy loss.

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates nearly 40% of a home’s energy loss occurs when wind driven pressures from outside the home cause air infiltration inside the home. Many builders recommend using a wrap in conjunction with your insulation to weatherize a home. A house wrap is a breathable membrane that allows moisture to dissipate from your walls while it cuts down on air infiltration from the outside. When used in conjunction with the proper insulation, savings estimates can range from 20-30% on your energy bill. After house wrapping, the insulation is installed.

R-value and basic cost are not the only factors to consider when choosing insulation. A homeowner should also think about where to apply the product. Different spaces often require different types of insulation. In addition, take into consideration any other type of insulation already in place and which products will work well with it.

Each part of your home has a different recommended R-value. In new homes, attics should have values between R-38 and R-44. Sidewalls require R-11 to R-28, floors should have R-25, and basements R-11 to R-19. Even a crawlspace should aim for a value of R-19. Owners of older homes should attempt to get as close to these figures as possible.

insulation options

Fiberglass—This familiar insulation is made from glass spun into microfibers and formed into blankets or packaged for blow-in application. It has the lowest R-value.

Cellulose—This recycled newspaper and cardboard product is chemically treated for flame retardancy and to discourage insects. It comes as loose fill or can be sprayed wet. Its R-value is higher than fiberglass.

Synthetic—This form of insulation is usually a polystyrene or polyurethane product that comes in rigid sheets or expanding foam. Rigid sheets typically are used on exterior walls in place of house wrap. Foam once sprayed into place, expands three to four times its original size, filling every nook and cranny.

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