What’s the Best Type of Insulation Used in a Home?

William Collins

April 13, 2023

Type Of Insulation

Insulation can be a DIY project, or hire a professional contractor. However, you should be sure to choose the best type of insulation for your home.

The proper insulation can make a big difference in keeping your home comfortable and reducing energy bills. It will ensure that your rooms stay warm in winter and cool in summer.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass is a popular choice for home insulation due to its cost-effectiveness. The material is also known for its flexibility and high R-value per inch.

The R-value of an insulating material is a measure of its thermal resistance to airflow and heat transfer. Choosing the proper insulation can save you money on your heating bills and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Insulation is also important because it can increase your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. It slows down air flow through walls and prevents hot and cold spots, keeping your house comfortable throughout the year.

When appropriately insulated, fiberglass helps reduce your energy bill by up to 30 percent. This can be especially helpful for homes that need to be more under-insulated.

Cellulose

Cellulose insulation, made from recycled paper, is one of the most eco-friendly insulation options on the market. It comprises up to 85% recycled material and can be used for loose-fill-in open attic installations or dense packed-in building cavities.

The paper is shredded into small pieces and then fiberized, making it a product that fits tightly into wall cavities. Manufacturers also add mineral borate and sometimes ammonium sulfate to make it fire-resistant and insect-resistant.

Another significant advantage of cellulose is its R-value, which is higher than fiberglass and other types of insulation. This means that cellulose can help you reduce your energy bill by keeping the temperature consistent in your home.

It is also fire-resistant and discourages mold growth, which can be a big problem in dry climates. They can be sprayed or blown in during construction and can be installed in new or existing structures. It is a popular choice in retrofits because it is less labor-intensive than other types of insulation.

Spray Foam

Choosing what type of insulation you use in your home is a matter of personal preference and budget. There are various options, including fiberglass, batts, loose-fill, rigid foam, and spray foam.

While each type of insulation has advantages and disadvantages, Spray Foam is one of the best options to consider when insulating your home. It can increase energy efficiency and help to make your home more comfortable.

It also helps to eliminate air gaps and drafts that can lead to discomfort, higher heating/cooling bills, and mold growth.

Spray foam insulation expands to 100 times its original size, filling every nook and cranny in the cavity and sealing air leaks. This helps to ensure that the recommended insulation R-value is met and prevents air from escaping through your home.

Foamed-In-Place

There’s no one answer to the question, “What’s the best type of insulation that should be used in a home?” The decision depends on various factors, including your budget, how you plan to use the insulation, and where you live.

Insulation is essential to your energy efficiency and comfort. It helps to prevent air from passing through the walls of your home, and it also keeps heat inside your home.

The most effective way to insulate your home is with foamed-in-place insulation, which creates an air seal that stops air from moving through the walls of your home. It also helps to keep moisture out of your home, especially in areas like crawl spaces, rim joists, and attics.

Foamed-in-place insulation is available in both closed-cell and open-cell polyurethane foams. Closed-cell foam has a higher R-value and offers stronger resistance against moisture.