Differences In Insulation For Attics

10 of your home heating bill costs stem from uninsulated floors.

Differences in insulation for attics.

When air can t move through it you have zero heat transfer through convection. Achieving greater r values in attics the higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. 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. However building codes only require an r 38.

Cellulose insulation is calculated based on the depth of the blown in insulation. This type of insulation. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and locations in the home.

Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. When installed properly both types of insulation fill all of the nooks and crannies in a space and make for a perfect air barrier. Batt spray and blown. Attic insulation is measured by an r value which indicates how insulation controls the flow of heat and cold through your home.

Fiberglass insulation is calculated based on the number of batts or rolls you need. Department of energy recommends r 49 attic insulation. For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices. 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.

Some types of insulation are found in older homes and some of them may no longer be used. Blown in insulation requires the least amount of work but requires special tools and equipment. There are three common attic insulation types used today. Blanket insulation is available as batts or rolls and is the easiest diy insulation material.

Closed cell and open cell aka 2 pound and pound respectively. They sport insulation values of approximately r 6 5 and r 3 6 per inch respectively. Fiberglass insulation in rolls or batts can be easily added by the homeowner. Choose from two types.

Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material. 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. In the baltimore area the u s. Insulation level are specified by r value.

Spray foam offers the best attic insulation performance available. R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product. There are different types of attic insulation and they each have their pros and cons.