Having a well-insulated home is the key to keeping your energy bills low and your temperature comfortable. There are several different types of insulation, all of which are rated by their R-value. The higher the R-value, the better energy-efficiency. Here are the 5 main types of insulation, and the benefits of each.
1. Spray Foam
Ideal for large or hard to reach areas, spray foam is also perfect for filling small gaps and cracks, and around windows, doors, and vents. Spray foam insulation Maryland offers this type of service. Spray foam dries quickly and can be painted, trimmed, or stained. Open-cell and closed-cell foam are two options, with closed-cell having the higher R-value, of R-6.2.
2. Loose Fill
Also known as blown-in insulation, loose-fill is ideal for attics, or areas that have already been insulated. It is typically constructed from fiberglass, mineral wool, or cellulose. It is fanned into place with special equipment. Its price is middle of the road in comparison to other insulation types. Its R-value ranges from R-2.2 to R-3.8.
3. Insulation Batts
Batts of insulation are essentially insulation blankets. They are already cut and are typically made of fiberglass. They are ideal for unfinished ceilings, floors, and walls. One of the more economical kinds, insulation blankets are DIY-friendly as they are installed in pieces. The densest of insulation batts can have R values as high as R-4.3.
4. Foam Board Insulation
One of the most common types of insulation, foam board insulation is solid panels that have a high R-value. Very versatile, foam board can be used to insulate virtually any part of your home. They are typically manufactured from polyurethane or polystyrene. Their one drawback is that they are generally more expensive than other insulation types. Their R-value ranges from R-4 to R-6.5.
5. Rolled Insulation
Just like it sounds, rolled insulation comes on a big roll. It is used to roll out between wall and ceiling framing. It is great for places where a long and continuous piece of insulation is needed. Pricewise, it is very affordable and is comparable to the price of batts. On high-density rolls, their R-value can be as high as 4.3.
Do you want to insulate your home, or have a professional do the work for you? In addition to the R-value, which type of insulation you choose should depend largely on the answer to this question.