Best Residential Attic Insulation

Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material.

Best residential attic 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. R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it. Proper attic insulation is the best way to prevent heat loss in the winter and retain cool air in the summer.

Sealing large air leaks is next followed by insulating the basement. Rolls and batts are produced of mineral wool and fiberglass. Come in continuous lengths ranging from 20 to 40 feet. The best types of home attic insulation are open cell spray foam fiberglass and cellulose.

A federal energy tax credit can help homeowners recoup their insulation investment if they complete the improvements by the end of 2007. The big disadvantage with spray foam is cost. If you don t have hvac and ducts in the attic spray foam on the roofline isn t really necessary. Best for unfinished walls floors ceilings and wherever long and continuous insulation pieces are needed.

So it s time to pay close attention to what s happening up there. Foam in place insulation can be blown into walls on attic surfaces or under floors to insulate and reduce air leakage. Insulation is a vital component in any home that aims to be energy efficient. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product.

It s generally 3 to 4 times what you ll pay for blown cellulose or fiberglass. Available in pre cut widths to fit between studs and joists. Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. Modern technology of blanket insulation today is considered the best insulation for attic.

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. Insulation rolls leave less opportunity for gaps between sections making them sometimes more effective than batts. Cellulose is the oldest insulation material used for not only the attic but other areas of the home as well. I d blow insulation on the attic floor after air sealing of course.

Typically placed in areas where air escapes such as between the stud cavities inside the walls and in the attic it. The attic is the easiest place to insulate and the most important in terms of saving money and energy. For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices.