Insulation 101: An Overview of Insulation Types and Home Insulation Methods

Insulation is a critical part of any home that helps regulate temperatures and energy efficiency. This article provides an overview of common insulation types, where they are used in a home, and general installation methods. We’ll cover batt insulation, loose-fill insulation, rigid foam boards, and more. By understanding your insulation options, you can choose the right products for your home and climate to save on energy costs while staying comfortable.
Fiberglass Batt Insulation
One of the most common insulation materials used in homes is fiberglass batt insulation. Batt insulation is easy to install and effective for walls and attics. Fiberglass is made from molten glass and is spun into soft, flexible fibers. These fibers are then compressed and formed into batts of various widths and thicknesses.
Fiberglass batts are great for wall cavities because they are easy to insert into stud bays. Homeowners can hire local Home Insulation Services to blow fiberglass loose-fill into attics for a seamless installation. Fiberglass is affordable and a good all-around insulator, though it can irritate skin and lungs if inhaled, so respiratory protection is recommended when handling loose fibers. The R-value, or resistance to heat flow, of fiberglass, ranges from R-3 to R-4 per inch.
Cellulose Insulation
Another popular blown-in insulation option is cellulose, which is made from recycled newspaper, cardboard, or other plant-based fibers. Like fiberglass, cellulose comes loose-fill and is installed using blowing equipment into wall cavities and attics. It provides good coverage in hard-to-reach spaces.
One advantage of cellulose is that it is made of recycled materials. It is also more resistant to mold and mildew growth compared to fiberglass. However, cellulose requires a chemical fire retardant for safety and off-gasses more readily than fiberglass during installation. Cellulose insulation has an R-value between R-3 to R-4 per inch.
Dense-Pack Cellulose Insulation
A specialty type of cellulose gaining popularity is dense-pack cellulose. Dense-pack cellulose is blown into wall cavities at a higher density than regular cellulose for improved coverage and R-values. Dense-packing wall cavities create a monolithic insulation barrier with few gaps for air leakage.
It requires professional installation equipment and expertise to achieve the correct high-density filling. But dense-pack cellulose provides an R-value as high as R-3.5 per inch—superior insulating performance compared to loose-fill insulation settling over time. Dense-pack cellulose installation may involve hiring excavation services to dig and expose foundation walls before blowing in the insulation.
Spray Polyurethane Foam Insulation
For air sealing and insulation in one, spray polyurethane foam (SPF) is a popular choice. SPF comes in two variations—open-cell which is softer and closed-cell which is denser. Both types expand and harden in place to form an airtight barrier encapsulating wall cavities and other spaces.
SPF creates a monolithic seal with high R-values of R-6 to R-7 per inch. It is moisture and pest-resistant with no gaps for air to penetrate. Professional installation involving special spraying equipment is required for SPF. However, the material is more expensive than the other types listed. Ventilation may also be needed as SPF off-gases while curing.
Conclusion
With the right material selection and installation methods, homeowners can insulate their abodes effectively. Proper insulation saves substantially on heating and cooling costs over the lifetime of the home. Reach out to reputable Insulation Services companies in your area to discuss a customized insulation plan.