Home Insulation Experts Question
Hello everyone,
I’m in the process of upgrading the insulation in my home and have some questions for the experts here. What types of insulation materials do you recommend for different areas of the house, such as the attic, walls, and floors?
Are there specific techniques or common mistakes to avoid during installation? Also, how do I determine the ideal R-value for my region and home size? I want to ensure my home stays energy-efficient and comfortable year-round.
Any insights or advice would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks in advance!
Hello!
It's great that you're upgrading your home's insulation! Here are some recommendations:
Attic: For maximum energy efficiency, blown-in cellulose or fiberglass batt insulation works well. These materials help fill gaps and prevent heat loss. Make sure to seal any air leaks before installing insulation.
Walls: Fiberglass batt or spray foam insulation are excellent options. Spray foam offers superior air sealing, but batt insulation is easier to install and more cost-effective.
Floors: Consider fiberglass batt or foam board insulation, especially if you have a crawl space. These materials help prevent heat loss to the ground.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Not sealing air leaks before installing insulation.
Installing the wrong thickness of insulation, which can reduce its effectiveness.
Over-compressing batt insulation, as it reduces its R-value.
Determining the Ideal R-value: The ideal R-value depends on your climate zone and the area you're insulating. Generally, the U.S. Department of Energy provides guidelines for each zone. For instance, attics in colder climates may need an R-value of 49–60, while walls generally require R-13 to R-21.
For attic insulation, blown-in cellulose or fiberglass batt insulation are great choices, as they provide good coverage and energy efficiency. Learn more about these options to determine which one best suits your needs. For walls, spray foam offers superior air sealing, while fiberglass batt is a more affordable option. For floors, fiberglass batt or foam board insulation is effective, especially in crawl spaces.
To avoid common mistakes, ensure you seal all air leaks before insulating, and avoid compressing batt insulation as it reduces its effectiveness.
To determine the ideal R-value, refer to your local climate zone. For example, attics in colder regions require R-49 to R-60, while walls generally need R-13 to R-21.