Best Attic Insulation Rating

Foam in place insulation can be blown into walls on attic surfaces or under floors to insulate and reduce air leakage.

Best attic insulation rating.

Proper attic insulation is the best way to prevent heat loss in the winter and retain cool air in the summer. Blowing insulation into walls is best left to the pros because it involves drilling into stud spaces that may contain electrical. I d blow insulation on the attic floor after air sealing of course. 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.

Achieving greater r values in attics the higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it. 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.

To choose the best insulation for your home from the many types of insulation on the market you ll need to know where you want or need to install the insulation and what r value you want the installation to achieve. Insulation level are specified by r value. Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation.

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. Other considerations may include indoor air quality impacts life cycle costs recycled content embodied energy and ease of installation especially if you plan to do the. Insulation with a higher r value will perform better than insulation with a lower rating. If you don t have hvac and ducts in the attic spray foam on the roofline isn t really necessary.

So it s time to pay close attention to what s happening up there. The big disadvantage with spray foam is cost. R values vary based on the type thickness and density of the material being used. 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. Now that you ve air sealed your attic and basement check your attic insulation levels and add more if necessary. Handy homeowners can install blown in insulation in the attic.