1. Where in my house is more insulation needed? In most cases the attic is where most heat loss occurs in the winter and where most heat gathers in the summer. Because of this fact, most experts focus on the attic most when considering upgrades.
2. What kind of insulation should I choose? The options are many for insulation. Each of these options has their own pros and cons. For this reason an expert professional contractor like those at The Home Insulators are important to work with because we professionally install all types of insulation and always find the best match type for you.
3. How much insulation should I install? Insulation is chosen on what is available and what the Department of Energy recommends along with a budget and R-values.  We will help you find the best performance for your money.

 

Most Used types of Insulation

Cellulose Insulation- R-3.8 per inch) This product is made from recycled newspapers which are shredded then treated with chemicals to make it fire-proof and resistant to mold.  Cellulose insulation is a blow-in form of insulation which is used a lot in attic insulation upgrades, but it can also be blown into walls and floor assemblies.

 

Fiberglass batts (R-3.2-3.8 per in.)  Batts come in varying thicknesses and widths. Their sizing is based on the way they fit between the studs and the joists. Enclosed cavities are the best place for batts. Batts should not be used in places like basements and crawl spaces because of moisture.  Batts will lose their R-value when they become wet or are compressed. Batt are more difficult to install correctly.

Loose-fill fiberglass (R-3.4 per in.) is made from fine glass fibers, just as cellulose insulation. The loose-fill fiberglass is mostly used in attics, and is installed using blowing equipment.

Spray foam insulation (R-4 to R-6.5 per in) Spray foam has another name: Spray Polyurethane Foam or SPF. Hardware Retailers sell this foam in Deposable cans and “single part” foam for the purpose of sealing cracks and gaps. The “Two Part” spray which mixes together at the nozzle is usually a professional job. The process involves mixing the two solutions to create a chemical reaction just before it is released from the hose to create an expansive foam that fills gaps, insulates and seal all at the same time.

Rigid foam insulation (R-4 to R-6 per in.) Rigid foam is manufactured. This makes it flat, light in weight, and available in different thicknesses and foam types. Unlike batts, they do not lose their R-Value, nor will they compressed when faced with water or humidity. Rigid foam boards also work with other parts of the house such as but not limited to the basement and the crawl space.

Choosing Insulation

No “magic” material for all your needs.

 

• Location- What part of the home is being insulated? The attic? The basement? Materials vary depending on the location, moisture level, etc.
• Composition or Content- Mineral wool, foam, fiberglass, cellulose, polyurethane, each has its own effectiveness and own price.
• Foam or installation details– Choose Between batts, loose fill, blow-in (blown) spray foam, or rigid foam.
• R-value- R is short for Resistance to heat transfer. No matter what the kind of insulation, it will have an R-rating. This rating is measured in R-value per inch. To find the total R-value, multiply the R-value per inch by the thickness of the desired insulation.

 

 

Before you make your Decision:

Difficulty Installing, composition material, R-value, and Price

 

An upgrade is always a wise choice. To job of insulation make sure that the movement of heat is slowed down when moving from the interior of the house to the exterior of the house.  Also from the exterior of the house to the interior of the house in the summertime. With the proper insulation you will no longer have rooms that have too high or too low temperatures during the extreme temperature season.  You can also enjoy hundreds of dollars in savings from your costs in air-conditioning and heater costs annually. The majority of homes have poor insulation and unsealed air pockets where air can easily escape. Correct placing of insulation by an expert can eliminate both of these problems. The things to know is what will work best for your house and what part of your house has the greatest need? Keep browsing for more answers.