Insulation FAQ
What does insulation do?
Insulation works by lowering the amount of heat lost from your home when its cold outside, and by increasing the amount of cool air retained inside when it’s hot out. This leads to a more comfortable home, and cost savings when it comes to energy and electricity bills.
How do I know if my insulation is sufficient?
The best way to determine if your home has sufficient insulation is through a home energy audit. This will determine if your insulation is sufficient, or if it can be improved to retain warmth or cool air, and save on bills. Even if your home is brand new, the insulation could still be improved. If your home is older, newer insulation techniques and material could save you money.
What is an R-Value?
R-Values measures how effectively a certain type of material resists the flow of heat. Lower values signify less efficient materials, whereas higher R-Values mean that more heat is trapped. This is all based on material density and thickness. R-Values matter because using the right material for the right application in your home is incredibly important.
Where should I be insulating inside my home?
Generally, most of the walls, ceilings, some floors, and areas adjacent to the outside of your home should be well insulated. In short, areas with heat transfer (loss) or where cold air can enter your home should be well insulated. This means attics, crawlspaces, exterior walls, basements, and in some cases, garages. Additionally, HVAC equipment and water heaters should be insulated in order to prevent these devices from becoming too cold. Piping should be insulated as well – specifically pipes that carry hot water, or pipes subject to freezing. Insulate around heating and air ducts as well to lower costs and energy loss. If this should occur, a water heater for instance will need to work harder, placing unneeded strain on your equipment.
I’ve heard of blow-in insulation. What is that?
Blown-in insulation, (called blow-in cellulose in some cases) is just like any of the types of insulating material available, except it is applied with a blower. Cellulose, mineral wool, and fiberglass insulation are generally available for blow-in. The insulating material is kind of like cotton, and when blown into place, expands and settles. This makes for efficient application and install, and also allows installers to blow the insulation into places inaccessible by hand; like wall cavities, or cramped spaces. The pricing is also competitive on this type of insulation.
How much insulation do I need?
This depends on a few factors, but the best place to start is to determine the size of the area you want to insulate. Measure the area by first obtaining the length and width of your space, and multiplying those figures together. Some insulation types (like loose-fill) are calculated by depth as well, so measure how much space you have along the walls, in case you choose this insulation type.
What is air infiltration?
Air infiltration is a fancy term that means outside air’s ability to seep into your home. Air from outside usually seeps into homes through cracks in walls, around windows, between seems and joists, and around door frames, ducts, and other passages that aren’t sealed well. Even tiny cracks can allow cold air to enter from outside, which causes your home to cool – and your heating bills to rise. The reverse is true in the summer months, where hot air can enter from outside, and waste energy as you work to cool your home. The objective of insulation (and air leakage testing) is to minimize air infiltration, keep your home comfortable, and to lower heating and air conditioning bills.
What are batts?
Batts, or insulation batts are big pieces of insulating material. They are generally pre-cut, and are installed between studs and support beams – usually within a wall. They’re generally made from material like natural fiber, recycled material, plastic, mineral wool, or cellulose – although some of the most cost effective versions are fiberglass. These materials are generally easy to work with and install yourself in walls and ceilings.
What are rolls?
Rolls, or insulation rolls are large, blanket-like sections of insulating material similar to batts. They are larger, and come in longer lengths, allowing for more customization for installation projects. They are also easy to work with.
What are insulation rolls?
Insulation rolls are insulating materials that come in tight-bound rolls. The insulating material is thin, and works well as an initial application inside walls and ceilings.
What is Foam Board Insulation?
Foam board insulation is exactly what it sounds like – large, rigid panels of insulating material. But foam board insulation sections aren’t just like weak Styrofoam. They are reinforced with wood or metal, are built densely, and have high R-values. This makes them great for colder climates. Foam board insulation is great for basement walls, interior and exterior walls, and some ceiling applications. Despite a generally higher expense, foam board insulation is highly effective, and is a great “do it yourself” material.
What is Spray Foam Insulation?
Spray foam insulation is a liquid insulation which expands and hardens once applied. It is blown into position and is easy and fast to apply. There are to main types of spray foam insulation: open-cell, or closed cell. Open cell insulation has a lower R-Value, but is less expensive. Closed-cell insulation is denser and comes with a higher R-value, but is more expensive. In addition, you can purchase small cans of spray foam insulation which are useful for sealing cracks around doors, windows, or other fixtures where air leakage may occur.
What are Radiant Barriers?
Radiant barriers are great for high-heat environments, and work a little different than most insulation types. Radiant barriers are made from reflective material, and reflect heat away from homes. By doing so, they help homes retain more cool air – versus working solely to keep the cool air in. Radiant barriers are generally made from aluminum or kraft substrates, and reflect heat. They are great for roofs, garages, and some wall applications.
What are vapor barriers?
Vapor barriers are designed specifically to keep water and moisture from entering your home. They are most useful in cold environments, where tiny water molecules can infiltrate your walls and insulation, and cause mold, dampness, and even rot. Vapor barriers are generally installed after your main insulation is installed. Plan to apply them to exterior walls, and pay extra attention to homes constructed with wood or masonry.
What is cellulose insulation?
Cellulose insulation typically a loose-fill spray-in insulation made from a number of materials, to include recycled paper products. To make it fire-resistant, borate is added – which can also help keep insects and pests out.
What fiberglass insulation?
Fiberglass insulation is insulating material made from glass fibers. The material is the most common form of insulation, and comes in a variety of formats, including rolls, loose-fill, and batts. Fiberglass insulation is generally inexpensive, and easy to work with. Remember to wear proper personal protective equipment when working with this material.
What foam insulation?
Foam insulation can be cement based, but is generally produced with types of plastic. It is generally blown or sprayed in, but can also take the shape of foam boards.
What is mineral wool insulation?
Mineral wool insulation is a type of insulation made from natural minerals, combined with other materials – including waste products from molten metal. The material is fire resistant, has a decent R-Value, and comes in loose, batt, or roll format.
What are natural fiber insulations?
Less common, these types of insulating materials are made from natural materials, including hemp, straw, sheep’s wool, or similar elements. They tend to be versatile, and repel mold and insects.
What is denim insulation?
You may be surprised to hear that denim insulation is just that – denim! Denim insulation is made from recycled or excess denim cotton and is easy to install. It can be expensive though.
How much money can good insulation save me?
Its hard to estimate how much money quality insulation can save, because there are a lot of factors at play. The big ones include your home and its age, the degree of air leakage and infiltration, the temperature you keep your home at, the existing insulation, and more. We recommend a home energy audit, which we offer. This can help gauge and assess the opportunity to install insulation or improve what’s in place – and can better help you understand how insulation could help cut down on energy bills.
What types of insulation are non-combustible?
Fiberglass and mineral wool insulating materials are non-combustible.
Is spray foam insulation fire resistant?
While spray foam insulation will not ignite immediately, it’s ignition point is at 700 degrees Fahrenheit.
Does insulation help stop noise?
Yes, much like R-values, insulation materials are rated on their ability to stop, or reduce noise. This rating scale is different than R-Values, and is measured with a Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) which scores materials on a scale of 0-1. Higher is better. Similarly, materials are rated for a Sound Transmission Coefficient (STC) which measures the amount of sound that passes through an insulating material.
What does insulation do?
Insulation works by lowering the amount of heat lost from your home when its cold outside, and by increasing the amount of cool air retained inside when it’s hot out. This leads to a more comfortable home, and cost savings when it comes to energy and electricity bills.
How do I know if my insulation is sufficient?
The best way to determine if your home has sufficient insulation is through a home energy audit. This will determine if your insulation is sufficient, or if it can be improved to retain warmth or cool air, and save on bills. Even if your home is brand new, the insulation could still be improved. If your home is older, newer insulation techniques and material could save you money.
What is an R-Value?
R-Values measures how effectively a certain type of material resists the flow of heat. Lower values signify less efficient materials, whereas higher R-Values mean that more heat is trapped. This is all based on material density and thickness. R-Values matter because using the right material for the right application in your home is incredibly important.
Where should I be insulating inside my home?
Generally, most of the walls, ceilings, some floors, and areas adjacent to the outside of your home should be well insulated. In short, areas with heat transfer (loss) or where cold air can enter your home should be well insulated. This means attics, crawlspaces, exterior walls, basements, and in some cases, garages. Additionally, HVAC equipment and water heaters should be insulated in order to prevent these devices from becoming too cold. Piping should be insulated as well – specifically pipes that carry hot water, or pipes subject to freezing. Insulate around heating and air ducts as well to lower costs and energy loss. If this should occur, a water heater for instance will need to work harder, placing unneeded strain on your equipment.
I’ve heard of blow-in insulation. What is that?
Blown-in insulation, (called blow-in cellulose in some cases) is just like any of the types of insulating material available, except it is applied with a blower. Cellulose, mineral wool, and fiberglass insulation are generally available for blow-in. The insulating material is kind of like cotton, and when blown into place, expands and settles. This makes for efficient application and install, and also allows installers to blow the insulation into places inaccessible by hand; like wall cavities, or cramped spaces. The pricing is also competitive on this type of insulation.
How much insulation do I need?
This depends on a few factors, but the best place to start is to determine the size of the area you want to insulate. Measure the area by first obtaining the length and width of your space, and multiplying those figures together. Some insulation types (like loose-fill) are calculated by depth as well, so measure how much space you have along the walls, in case you choose this insulation type.
What is air infiltration?
Air infiltration is a fancy term that means outside air’s ability to seep into your home. Air from outside usually seeps into homes through cracks in walls, around windows, between seems and joists, and around door frames, ducts, and other passages that aren’t sealed well. Even tiny cracks can allow cold air to enter from outside, which causes your home to cool – and your heating bills to rise. The reverse is true in the summer months, where hot air can enter from outside, and waste energy as you work to cool your home. The objective of insulation (and air leakage testing) is to minimize air infiltration, keep your home comfortable, and to lower heating and air conditioning bills.
What are batts?
Batts, or insulation batts are big pieces of insulating material. They are generally pre-cut, and are installed between studs and support beams – usually within a wall. They’re generally made from material like natural fiber, recycled material, plastic, mineral wool, or cellulose – although some of the most cost effective versions are fiberglass. These materials are generally easy to work with and install yourself in walls and ceilings.
What are rolls?
Rolls, or insulation rolls are large, blanket-like sections of insulating material similar to batts. They are larger, and come in longer lengths, allowing for more customization for installation projects. They are also easy to work with.
What are insulation rolls?
Insulation rolls are insulating materials that come in tight-bound rolls. The insulating material is thin, and works well as an initial application inside walls and ceilings.
What is Foam Board Insulation?
Foam board insulation is exactly what it sounds like – large, rigid panels of insulating material. But foam board insulation sections aren’t just like weak Styrofoam. They are reinforced with wood or metal, are built densely, and have high R-values. This makes them great for colder climates. Foam board insulation is great for basement walls, interior and exterior walls, and some ceiling applications. Despite a generally higher expense, foam board insulation is highly effective, and is a great “do it yourself” material.
What is Spray Foam Insulation?
Spray foam insulation is a liquid insulation which expands and hardens once applied. It is blown into position and is easy and fast to apply. There are to main types of spray foam insulation: open-cell, or closed cell. Open cell insulation has a lower R-Value, but is less expensive. Closed-cell insulation is denser and comes with a higher R-value, but is more expensive. In addition, you can purchase small cans of spray foam insulation which are useful for sealing cracks around doors, windows, or other fixtures where air leakage may occur.
What are Radiant Barriers?
Radiant barriers are great for high-heat environments, and work a little different than most insulation types. Radiant barriers are made from reflective material, and reflect heat away from homes. By doing so, they help homes retain more cool air – versus working solely to keep the cool air in. Radiant barriers are generally made from aluminum or kraft substrates, and reflect heat. They are great for roofs, garages, and some wall applications.
What are vapor barriers?
Vapor barriers are designed specifically to keep water and moisture from entering your home. They are most useful in cold environments, where tiny water molecules can infiltrate your walls and insulation, and cause mold, dampness, and even rot. Vapor barriers are generally installed after your main insulation is installed. Plan to apply them to exterior walls, and pay extra attention to homes constructed with wood or masonry.
What is cellulose insulation?
Cellulose insulation typically a loose-fill spray-in insulation made from a number of materials, to include recycled paper products. To make it fire-resistant, borate is added – which can also help keep insects and pests out.
What fiberglass insulation?
Fiberglass insulation is insulating material made from glass fibers. The material is the most common form of insulation, and comes in a variety of formats, including rolls, loose-fill, and batts. Fiberglass insulation is generally inexpensive, and easy to work with. Remember to wear proper personal protective equipment when working with this material.
What foam insulation?
Foam insulation can be cement based, but is generally produced with types of plastic. It is generally blown or sprayed in, but can also take the shape of foam boards.
What is mineral wool insulation?
Mineral wool insulation is a type of insulation made from natural minerals, combined with other materials – including waste products from molten metal. The material is fire resistant, has a decent R-Value, and comes in loose, batt, or roll format.
What are natural fiber insulations?
Less common, these types of insulating materials are made from natural materials, including hemp, straw, sheep’s wool, or similar elements. They tend to be versatile, and repel mold and insects.
What is denim insulation?
You may be surprised to hear that denim insulation is just that – denim! Denim insulation is made from recycled or excess denim cotton and is easy to install. It can be expensive though.
How much money can good insulation save me?
Its hard to estimate how much money quality insulation can save, because there are a lot of factors at play. The big ones include your home and its age, the degree of air leakage and infiltration, the temperature you keep your home at, the existing insulation, and more. We recommend a home energy audit, which we offer. This can help gauge and assess the opportunity to install insulation or improve what’s in place – and can better help you understand how insulation could help cut down on energy bills.
What types of insulation are non-combustible?
Fiberglass and mineral wool insulating materials are non-combustible.
Is spray foam insulation fire resistant?
While spray foam insulation will not ignite immediately, it’s ignition point is at 700 degrees Fahrenheit.
Does insulation help stop noise?
Yes, much like R-values, insulation materials are rated on their ability to stop, or reduce noise. This rating scale is different than R-Values, and is measured with a Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) which scores materials on a scale of 0-1. Higher is better. Similarly, materials are rated for a Sound Transmission Coefficient (STC) which measures the amount of sound that passes through an insulating material.
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