Differences In Insulation For Attics

Wall insulation can reduce a home s heat loss by 67 while attic insulation can lead to a 40 decrease in heating and cooling costs.

Differences in insulation for attics.

R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it. However building codes only require an r 38. Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material. It s available in fiberglass mineral wool plastic fibers and natural fibers.

Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product. 10 of your home heating bill costs stem from uninsulated floors. Foam in place insulation can be blown into walls on attic surfaces or under floors to insulate and reduce air leakage.

There are different types of attic insulation and they each have their pros and cons. Some types of insulation are found in older homes and some of them may no longer be used. Insulating basement walls or slab foundation can reduce heating costs by10 to 20. This type of insulation.

Achieving greater r values in attics the higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. Attic insulation is measured by an r value which indicates how insulation controls the flow of heat and cold through your home. The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and locations in the home. There are three common attic insulation types used today.

Blanket insulation is available as batts or rolls and is the easiest diy insulation material. Spray foam offers the best attic insulation performance available. Fiberglass insulation is calculated based on the number of batts or rolls you need. Closed cell and open cell aka 2 pound and pound respectively.

Some installations can yield a higher r value than traditional batt insulation for the same thickness and can fill even the smallest cavities creating an effective air barrier. Cellulose insulation is calculated based on the depth of the blown in insulation. Batt spray and blown. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation.

Choose from two types. When installed properly both types of insulation fill all of the nooks and crannies in a space and make for a perfect air barrier. In the baltimore area the u s. Fiberglass insulation in rolls or batts can be easily added by the homeowner.

Department of energy recommends r 49 attic insulation. Find your zone on the map and then use the chart to determine the level of insulation you need to properly insulate your attic walls floors and crawlspaces. Insulation level are specified by r value. They sport insulation values of approximately r 6 5 and r 3 6 per inch respectively.