How to Pick the Most Effective Insulation for Your Home
By Millstream Construction
Most homeowners understand that attic and roof insulation delivers meaningful benefits. However, few homeowners consider that insulation products and materials are diverse in their features. Insulation is definitely not “one-size-fits-all.” Some offerings provide benefits that other alternatives simply don’t offer. A particular type of insulation might not address your needs, while a different option could be a perfect solution. So, what is the most effective insulation?
What Types Of Attic & Roof Insulation Exist?
Attic and roof insulation can be boiled down to four primary options:
Blown-In Loose-Fill Cellulose Insulation
Cellulose is produced from various recycled materials, including ground-up paper, wood, and cardboard. Boric acid (and other substances) are added to the formula to make the result fireproof and insect-resistant. Because of its relative density, this insulation material prevents most air movement. Many users prefer blown-in cellulose because it customarily has a higher R-value than fiberglass batts. Although it is eco-friendly, it can foster mold if it becomes damp.
Blown-In Loose-Fill Fiberglass Insulation
Blown-in or loose-fill fiberglass insulation is manufactured from the same glass fiber material as batt insulation. Generally, blown-in fiberglass insulation offers additional energy efficiency compared to batt insulation. It can also provide a more airtight fit by filling cracks, gaps, and uneven or irregular spaces. However, blown-in insulation settles and may experience a slight decrease in R-value.
Fiberglass Batt Insulation
When homeowners consider insulation, the image of fiberglass batts (or rolls) typically comes to mind. An infinite number of glass fibers are placed into rolled-up sheets of material that lay flat when installed. Many homeowners prefer fiberglass batt insulation because it is a familiar product and performs reasonably well in many settings. However, its effectiveness and useful service life will diminish if exposed to moisture or pest infestations.
Spray Foam Insulation
This type of insulation is liquid-based. An installer sprays it in the attic space. It quickly thickens and grows into a hardened foam that neatly seals when applied. It provides an airtight safeguard in gaps and cracks. Spray foam insulation is gaining popularity due to its high R-value, which surpasses many other options while adding structural support to your home. Unfortunately, it can foster moisture problems if the installer does not fill all spaces fully.
What Is An R-Value?
An insulation material’s R-value calculates its ability to resist heat flow. A higher R-value means better performance (less heat loss). When a home experiences heat loss, heating costs increase. The recommended R-value range depends on the prevailing climate in your area.
The Department of Energy’s Energy Star Program recommends how much insulation a given space should contain depending on the home’s geographic location. Connecticut is situated in Zone 5. In this region, Energy Star offers the following R-value ranges for insulation depending on the interior space being insulated.
What Insulation Millstream Construction Offers
As Connecticut’s leading insulation installer, Millstream Construction understands the importance of choosing the right type of blown-in insulation. We will evaluate the ideal option based on your home’s layout, local climate, and energy objectives.
Cellulose Blown-In Insulation
Millstream Construction has the tools and equipment to expertly add high-quality cellulose insulation. It is ideal for retrofitting existing homes with new, additional, or replacement insulation. Cellulose insulation resists settling and effectively fills tiny gaps and crevices to eliminate heat escape. Our knowledge and experience guarantee proper density and coverage for optimal performance.
Fiberglass Blown-In Insulation
Fiberglass insulation is a widely available, cost-effective solution for homeowners. Millstream Construction uses the highest-quality fiberglass insulation with exceptional thermal performance and maximum sound absorption. As a homeowner, you will notice the difference in terms of added indoor comfort and minimal noise pollution from outside. We blow in and fit the insulation precisely.
How Much Blown-In Insulation Is Appropriate?
Insulation professionals use “R-value per inch” to estimate the depth of insulation required in a given space. Blown-in fiberglass insulation does not provide quite the same R-value as blown-in cellulose insulation. Thus, an installer may add more inches of fiberglass insulation to achieve the desired R-value. The following graph reveals the range of R-value per inch of blown-in insulation.
What Is The Most Effective Insulation?
Many insulation experts recommend blown-in or loose-fill insulation for attic and roof spaces. This alternative offers the most uncomplicated installation process. Special equipment enables the loose insulation to cover every space evenly to maximize energy efficiency. In the future, additional blown-in material can be provided if the homeowner needs more insulation.
Why Is Millstream Construction The Ideal Insulation Provider
If you’re a Connecticut homeowner, Millstream Construction provides top-notch insulation solutions. We will tailor a plan to maximize your home’s energy efficiency and comfort. Contact us today to learn more about our full range of roofing services or to schedule an appointment to learn more about installing new or replacement insulation in your home.
