Know the Best Winter Insulation to Have in Your Home

After the insulation in your home has kept heat outdoors all summer, it’s time for winter insulation to hold the heat indoors. Fortunately, insulation is a versatile material that resists heat coming and going, keeping your home comfortable in all seasons. The right insulation in the attic also keeps monthly energy costs more affordable and improves the resale value of the home.

How Is Insulation Rated?

All insulation is not equal. The R-factor rating is a numeral expressing the material’s efficiency when it comes to resisting heat. The higher the R-factor, the better the insulation performs. Among the most widely utilized types of home insulation, R-factor ratings generally range from 3 to 7.

What’s the Best Choice When It Comes to Winter Insulation?

This depends on several variables, including what’s already installed in an existing house as well as the cost of new insulation. Here are three common insulation types.

• Fiberglass batts are the most common, least-expensive type. These are provided in precut rolls and come in standard widths to fit between attic joists. Installation of fiberglass batts is generally quick and done manually, without specialized equipment. Fiberglass batts are rated with an R-factor of 3.1 to 3.4 per inch of depth installed. Batts can be added on top of fiberglass that’s already present in the attic to increase total efficiency.
• Cellulose loose fill is made up of tiny particles of recycled paper treated with fire-retardant chemicals. Cellulose is injected into the attic with air pressure through large hoses and naturally fills all spaces to ensure optimum coverage. Cellulose is more expensive than fiberglass but also has a higher R-factor of up to 3.8 per inch.
• Spray foam is composed of a polyurethane formula, sprayed into the attic as a liquid that dries solid. Properly applied, this material provides superior coverage and heat resistance. R-factor efficiency is rated at 7. Downsides include a high initial cost. Installation must be performed by trained, experienced professionals only. Also, note that because the mixture dries as a permanent solid, removal in the future will be costly.

Ask the professionals at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning for more information about winter insulation options.