Home insulation is an important part of making sure your home is energy efficient and comfortable all year round. While insulation can be installed in any area of the home, there are certain areas that it is especially important to focus on.
1: Attic
The attic is one of the most important areas to insulate in your home. Heat naturally rises, so in an attic that is not properly insulated, heat will escape through the roof and seasonally cause drafts. Proper attic insulation can help retain warmth during cold winter months, as well as keep hot air out during the summer months. The US Department of Energy recommends R-30 to R-60 for attics, depending on where you live. According to iFoam, “With proper insulation, you’ll see steadier temperatures, fewer ‘dust bunnies’ and allergens, and lots of savings.”
What type of Home Insulation is best for your attic?
Generally, fiberglass batt insulation or blown-in cellulose is the best option. On the other hand, spray foam can be used if you need to insulate areas of your attic that have tricky shapes and sizes.
2: Walls
Insulating walls is also important for keeping your home energy efficient. Most homes have either fiberglass batting or spray foam insulation already installed on their walls. However, if it has been some time since you had your walls insulated, it may be beneficial to consider updating your insulation with a higher R-value material like rigid foam board. This will reduce heat loss through the walls and help keep the temperature more consistent throughout the entire house.
What type of Home Insulation is best for your walls?
Fiberglass batt insulation is the most popular option for insulating walls. However, if you have an older home made from brick or stone, rigid foam board may be a better choice as it provides a complete barrier between the inside and outside of your home.
3: Basement & Crawl Space
Insulating your basement and crawl spaces can help reduce energy costs throughout the year. Proper insulation will block heat transfer through floors, walls, and ceilings while also preventing condensation buildup, which could lead to mold growth. The US Department of Energy recommends R-13 to R-15 for insulated basements and R-19 to R-30 for insulated crawl spaces depending on where you live.
What type of Home Insulation is best for your basement & crawl space?
Fiberglass batting or spray foam are the two most common types of insulation used in basements and crawl spaces. If you have a particularly damp area, an insulated rigid foam board may be a better choice, as it will provide complete protection against moisture. Additionally, if there are any existing pipes or ducts in the space, they should be insulated with closed-cell foam to prevent heat loss.
4: Windows & Doors
Windows and doors are the most common areas for air leakage. To prevent this, it is important to make sure all openings are properly insulated with weather stripping or caulk. Additionally, installing window films and plastic sheeting over windows can help reduce heat loss even further.
What type of Home Insulation is best for windows & doors?
Weather stripping or caulk are the two main types of insulation used around windows and doors. Window films and plastic sheeting can also be added to provide additional protection against heat loss. In addition, foam gaskets can be installed on interior trim to prevent cold drafts from entering the home in winter months.
5: Ducts
Ducts are often overlooked when it comes to insulating your home, but they can be a huge source of inefficiency. Uninsulated ducts can cause heat loss and increase energy bills. The US Department of Energy recommends R-8 insulation for ducts located in unconditioned spaces like attics and crawl spaces.
What type of Home Insulation is best for ducts?
Fiberglass batting or foam board should be used to insulate ducts located in unconditioned spaces. Additionally, mastic sealant should be applied around the joints and seams of the ductwork to reduce air leakage even further. Any exposed areas should also be covered with a vapor barrier to prevent moisture buildup inside the ducts.
By taking the time to insulate your home properly, you can reduce energy costs and create a more comfortable living environment for your family. It is important to consult with professionals to know the right type of insulation to use for each area in order to ensure maximum efficiency. With these tips in mind, you will be well on your way to having an energy-efficient and cozy home!
