- Home insulation is crucial to regulating the temperature inside a home.
- There are 5 main types of insulation for the home, all of which are made of different materials and provide different levels of heat protection.
- Spray foam insulation is generally regarded as the best overall insulation for a home.
Home insulation is a fundamental aspect of energy efficiency, climate control, and overall comfort in any home. From traditional materials like fiberglass and cellulose to more modern alternatives such as spray foam, each type offers a distinct set of advantages and considerations. Let’s take a look at the characteristics, benefits, and optimal applications of each type. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to upgrade your insulation, building a home, or simply curious which type of home insulation is right for you, soon you can make informed decisions for a well-insulated and energy-efficient home.
What Is Home Insulation
Home insulation is a crucial layer of material placed within the attic space of a building to regulate indoor temperature and energy usage. It acts as a barrier against heat transfer, minimizing the exchange of heat between the living areas below and the outdoor environment. By providing resistance to heat flow, home insulation helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature throughout the year, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling. This not only enhances energy efficiency but also contributes to lower utility bills and a more sustainable living environment. Additionally, the maximum thermal performance, or R-value, of insulation is very dependent on proper installation. When it comes to types of home insulation homeowners can install themselves, there are only a few types such as boards, blankets, and easy pour materials. Other types of home insulation will require professional installation.
5 Types Of Home Insulation
1. Blanket Insulation: Batts And Rolls
The most popular and widely used type of home insulation is blanket insulation which typically comes in batts and rolls. Made of flexible fibers, most commonly fiberglass, this type of insulation is also found in variations crafted from mineral wool, plastic fibers, and natural sources like cotton and sheep’s wool. Continuous rolls can be easily customized by hand-cutting and adjusting to fit any given space. Manufacturers frequently affix facings, such as kraft paper, foil-kraft paper, or vinyl, to serve as vapor and/or air barriers. These facings also simplify handling and attachment during installation. This type of configuration provides Batts and Rolls with an average R-value ranging from 3.7-4.3.
2. Foam Board Insulation
Rigid insulation panels, known as foam boards, offer versatile home insulation solutions for various areas within your home, spanning from the roof to the foundation. This method is effective in insulating attic hatches. These panels deliver impressive thermal resistance, often outperforming other insulating materials of equivalent thickness. By curbing heat conduction through structural components like wood and steel studs, foam boards significantly reduce energy transfer giving this type an average R-value of 4-8.
3. Blown-In Insulation
Loose-fill, aka Blown in insulation, can be installed in either enclosed cavities such as walls, or unenclosed spaces such as attics. Cellulose, fiberglass, and rock wool are typically blown in by experienced installers skilled at achieving the correct density and R-values. Each manufacturer must determine the R-value of its product at settled density and create coverage charts showing the minimum settled thickness, minimum weight per square foot, and coverage area per bag for various total R-values. However, there is controversy surrounding the time it takes the materials to settle, and once it does, there are often gaps, giving this type of home insulation an average R-value of 3.
4. Fiber Insulation
Rigid fiberboard insulation, crafted from materials like fiberglass or mineral wool, finds its primary application in insulating residential air ducts, and attics when applicable. Additionally, fiber insulation serves as an ideal choice for scenarios demanding insulation that can effectively endure high temperatures. When left unfaced, fiber insulation can be further customized for various settings, including attics, by adding reinforced insulating cement, canvas, or weather-resistant material, giving this type of home insulation an average R-value of 2.5-4.5.
5. Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam insulation has many application methods, including spraying, foaming-in-place, injection, or pouring. Foam-in-place insulation, for instance, can be expertly introduced into walls, applied on attic surfaces, or positioned beneath floors to insulate effectively and curtail air leakage. In most setups, these installations can achieve a higher R-value compared to traditional batt insulation, all within the same thickness. Furthermore, these liquid foams excel in filling even the tiniest voids, establishing a robust air barrier. For addressing gaps and areas like those around window and door frames, electrical and plumbing penetrations, as well as attic trusses, small pressurized cans of foam-in-place insulation can prove invaluable in minimizing air leakage. This type of home insulation has an average R-value of 3.6-7.0.
Why Spray Foam Insulation Is Superior
Spray foam insulation outshines traditional methods for attic and home insulation. Its seamless coverage seals gaps, curbing energy loss and maintaining consistent temperatures. By repelling moisture, it prevents damage and mold. The durability ensures lasting efficiency, leading to substantial long-term savings for you and your family. For optimal energy efficiency, comfort, and value, spray foam is the superior choice.
Choose Eagle Insulation For Home Insulation
Not all types of home insulation types are made equal. So it’s important to choose insulation that offers the safest product used within your home. At Eagle Insulation, we pride ourselves on offering a great spray foam insulation product for a reasonable price while keeping you and your family comfortable. The Eagle guarantee is the promise that our insulation contractors will make your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer without breaking the bank on energy bills. Schedule a free estimate today to start your spray foam insulation project. Get ready to save on energy costs and feel increased comfort within your home.
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