Insulation is a tool that allows home builders to design homes that are energy efficient, comfortable across all seasons, and add value to a home.
The Physical Role of Insulation
The role that insulation plays in homes is two-fold. First, it helps to stop “air seepage” – the loss of air through walls, ceilings, roofs, attics, and basements to the outside. The opposite is true in cold weather – insulation helps stop outside air from seeping into the home or rooms of the home.
The second role that insulation plays is it works as a sound absorber and deadener when used between walls, in subfloors, and in the ceiling.
Keeping the home insulated helps to improve the energy efficiency of each room so that heated air is not lost to the outside during winter and cool air does not escape during the summer months. That process makes the home more energy efficient which means it costs less to heat or cool the home over the entire year. Who does not want to spend more money on energy, natural gas, or other fuels to heat or cool their house?
Different types of Insulation
There is an amazing selection of insulation types available for anyone building a home or who wants to improve the quality of insulation in their existing home. Many homes have cellulose, fiberglass, or mineral wool-type insulation.
Cellulose insulation is made from plant fibers and is a very eco-friendly way to add insulation to your attic. Mineral wool is also a very popular insulation made of spun mineral fibers. It comes in rolls or batts and is added to walls, ceilings, subfloors, and attics. Fiberglass insulation is similar to mineral wool.
Where Do You Want Insulation?
Insulation is needed on any outside wall, the attic, and roofline. When installed in those locations, the insulation provides a perimeter shell that helps to keep air from leaking out or infiltrating the house. To make the house more energy efficient and quieter, you could also install insulation in the subfloors, ceiling space, and inner walls. Doing so means that floors stop the infiltration of cold air in winter and keeps cool air inside in summer.
Adding insulation to a wall, floor, or ceiling also helps to dampen noises – keeping rooms private, and living spaces contained.
How Much Insulation Does Your House Need?
The amount of insulation needed depends on your local climate. Generally, insulation is rated in R-values or radiant values. There is a range of R-values for different areas of your home. For example, if you want to insulate the outer walls you will need an R-value of 13-23. If you are adding insulation to an attic, an R-value of R-30-49 is appropriate. The higher the R-value rating of insulation the more insulation is required. This is sometimes measured in thickness. Ceilings and subfloors require the same R-value as an attic space.
Does Your home need Insulation?
Generally, if you have a hard time creating a comfortable ambient room temperature then insulation will likely be a good investment. Eventually, the cost of insulation is recouped through lower energy bills. It takes less energy to heat or cool a well-insulated house.
If you want to cut down on inside or outside noise, adding insulation is a good move. More insulation will not only keep your home more comfortable but also quieter.
Learn more about insulation basics and the options available for your home or business by reaching out to our team. We are happy to answer any questions you might have or schedule an inspection and get a free quote.