The right insulation plays a crucial role in creating a comfortable living environment for you and your family. There are many types of attic insulation, and choosing the right one is key for comfort, energy efficiency, cost savings, soundproofing, and even pest control.
Understanding the types of attic insulation available, their pros and cons, and how your local climate, home structure, and budget contribute to your final decision is important. Installing insulation is a home improvement that lasts. An attic insulation contractor will be able to consult with you on what is best for your home and goals.
Different Types of Attic Insulation
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, more than half of your home’s energy use comes from heating and air conditioning. That’s why keeping your home as energy-efficient as possible goes a long way to saving money, and the right amount of insulation and the right kind of insulation is key to achieving efficiency.
There are different types of insulation and different ways to install it.
Attic Insulation Materials
- Fiberglass Insulation is created from very fine strands of glass woven into a flat, blanket-type sheet. It is one of the oldest and most common types of insulation. It comes in batts, rolls, loose-fill, and sprays. Chosen for its affordability, it is also easy to install and provides both thermal and acoustic benefits.
- Polyurethane/Polyisocyanurate Insulation is a spray foam that expands into a solid and dries. Polyurethane and polyisocyanurate are similar materials with slight chemical differences. This type of insulation is economical, easy to install, and stands up to time. It has great air-sealing capabilities, which makes it quite effective.
- Cellulose Insulation is made up of about 85 percent shredded recycled paper that is either blown in or sprayed on. The cellulose traps air within its fibers, preventing it from creating drafts. The cellulose is treated with mineral borate and ammonium sulfate to make it flame and insect-resistant. It is a popular choice because of its environmentally friendly characteristics.
Attic Insulation Installation
- Spray foam insulation is a liquid that is sprayed onto a surface using a special spray gun. Made of liquid polyurethane, it expands and dries once sprayed into place, adding a thermal layer and filling cracks and gaps.
- Batt fiberglass insulation consists of glass fibers woven together, creating a dense material. It comes in rolls or flat pieces that must be cut to size.
- Blown loose insulation is made of fine fibers and is installed using a blower machine. It is made of fiberglass strands or cellulose. This type of insulation is often used to add insulation to an under-insulated attic.
Insulation Material Cons
- Spray Foam insulation is the most expensive to install than other insulation types and difficult to remove if you plan to renovate. If not installed properly, it can lead to moisture issues and wood rot in your attic. Spray foam can also seal your home too well, preventing necessary air circulation.
- Batt fiberglass insulation does not resist mold, mildew, and moisture. Gaps in the insulation can allow heat to pass through. For those concerned about the environment, its manufacturing uses a lot of energy and contributes to air pollution. It is also an irritant when installing it, and protection is required.
- Since it can be inhaled and irritate the lungs, blown-in fiberglass insulation carries the same health risks as batt fiberglass during installation. This type of insulation settles over time, decreasing its energy-efficient qualities. Lastly, it is not moisture-proof and can lose some of its insulating properties as well as grow moldy.
What to Consider When Choosing New Insulation
Ease of installation, effectiveness, and long-term benefits are all important considerations when choosing which type of insulation to install in your attic. Our insulation specialists will be able to advise you based on your specific situation.
Considerations for R-Value
R-value is a measurement that communicates how well a type of insulation will keep heat from entering or leaving your house. All insulation has this rating, and it is based on the type of insulation, its thickness, and its density. It is the way the industry quantifies an insulation’s thermal performance. The higher the R-value, the greater its energy efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a value of R-49 to R-60 is ideal for most homes in colder climates. For those who live in warmer climates, R-30 to R-49 is sufficient.
Climate Considerations
The climate in which you live is one of the most significant factors when determining the type and amount of insulation your home needs. It’s important to consider not only how hot or cold your climate is but also the amount of moisture in the air. If you live in a humid climate or near the ocean, humidity can lessen the effectiveness of certain insulations. You’ll want to explore insulation best suited to moisture resistance.
Acoustic Considerations
Your choice of insulation can also enhance other aspects of your life. If you live in a populated area with sounds of traffic and other urban noises, look for insulation that also adds soundproofing. If you worry about pest infestations, some insulations offer pest control benefits.
Trutech Attic Insulation Replacement Recommends
At Trutech Wildlife Service, we install blown loose cellulose insulation treated with thermal, acoustical, and pest control (TAP) properties. This multi-functional material offers protection in three ways:
- Thermal protection: This insulation cools your home in the summer and heats it in the winter by preventing the conditioned air your HVAC system pumps from escaping. This, in turn, reduces your energy bills.
- Acoustical benefits: The fluffy layers of insulation help reduce outside noise for a quiet and more peaceful home environment.
- Pest deterrent: TAP insulation is treated with a natural pest control agent that helps prevent infestations, adding an extra layer of protection to your home.
At Trutech, we offer attic insulation replacement and restoration. Whether you’re experiencing rising energy costs or signs of pest activity, we’ve got you covered.
Contact us today to learn more about how our attic insulation services can protect and preserve your home while reducing utility bills.
