What kind of Insulation do I need?
Insulation is one of the most important and most overlooked way of protecting your family and home from the outside elements. Insulation provides a protective layer that keeps the inside of your home a comfortable temperature, while keeping the harsh elements outside of your home from penetrating. Extreme heat and cold, as well as moisture and humidity can create problems for your health. It causes your furnace and AC to work overtime which causes wear and tear. It is also extremely expensive. Insulation protects against all of this and more.
Most people are not aware that there are many types of insulation, each serving an important role in the goal of creating a comfortable home. Here, we list the 3 most common types of insulation, the pros of each, and how moisture build-up.
Fiberglass Batt Insulation
Fiberglass Batt Insulation: This rolls or “batts” of glass fibers (always handle while wearing gloves and a mask) that are woven together to form a mat OR that are spun together and bonded to form a mat, or a roll. They are installed in walls between the studs, in the floor between the joists, and even in the ceiling rafters. These come in a variety of thicknesses depending on where it is being used.
Fiberglass is one of the most affordable and effective types of installation and is relatively easy to install. It is also appealing due to its fire-resistant material.
Fiberglass insulation can settle over time which reduces its ability to properly protect your home, so if you have an older home, get an expert to inspect the condition of your insulation.
Fiberglass Blown-in Insulation
Fiberglass Blown-in Insulation: Made of the same material as the batt insulation, this is installed using a special machine that blows insulation into harder to reach areas of your home. Most commonly this is done in the attic, but it is also done to add insulation to pre-existing walls.
For maximum effectiveness, there should be an even distribution of the insulation, and in attics the recommended thickness based on the area of the country you are in.
Fiberglass blown-in insulation is perfect for new construction and retrofit (remodel) jobs. Be cautious in installing it, always wear gloves and a mask to avoid irritation and lungs.
It is highly recommended to have this installed by a professional who carries the right equipment and expertise to ensure proper installation, however this is a great option for improving your home’s energy efficiency and comfort.
Spray Foam Insulation
Spray Foam Insulation: This insulation is the most efficient option for insulation and often used in areas where traditional insulation will not suffice. This is commonly used to encapsulate crawl spaces, insulate metal buildings, and when the studs are too thin for traditional fiberglass insulation.
Spray foam is applied in a liquid-form and expands to fill cracks and crevices. It creates an airtight barrier and even reinforces the structure of your home. It also is the best option of insulation for sound control, however it is not suitable in all climates.
Proper insulation can lower your energy bills, improve your air quality, Increased comfort, and reduce noise-pollution. At Vance Insulation, we pride ourselves in caring for over 15,000 families in Central Virginia. With over 60 years of experience, you can count on us to provide common sense solutions for your home insulation needs. Call us if you have questions!
