Yes, you can use R19 insulation in your attic, but it is rarely enough on its own. Modern building codes require much higher thermal resistance depending on your region, typically starting between R38 and R49.
No, R-19 is generally not enough on its own for an attic in most U.S. climates. While it provides some thermal resistance, modern building codes and the U.S. Department of Energy recommend much higher values—typically ranging between R-30 and R-60 depending on your location.
The optimal R-value for most homes is 30, but you can go as high as 38 if you live in a tropical climate. Anything higher than 38 indicates an over-insulated space. While you might think that too much insulation can't be bad, there are some significant consequences to consider.
Yes, R30 insulation is objectively better at resisting heat flow than R19, but it is not a direct substitute. The "better" choice depends entirely on your location and the specific area of your home you are insulating.
Typical recommendations for exterior walls are R-13 to R-23, while R-30, R-38 and R-49 are common for ceilings and attic spaces.
Insulating a 2,000 sq. ft. attic costs between $2,000 and $9,000, with most homeowners paying around $3,600 to $5,800 for professional installation. The wide price range depends on the type of insulation, labor rates, and whether old insulation requires removal.
The 7 and 7 rule for attic conversions refers to the common requirement that finished attics be at least 7 feet wide and 70 square feet, with 7-foot ceilings over at least half. Keep in mind that this is a general guideline. Local building codes may have stricter requirements that supersede this rule.
In most cases, you do not need to remove old insulation before adding new insulation. Laying new batting or blown-in insulation directly over existing material is often the most cost-effective way to boost your attic's energy efficiency, provided the old insulation is in good condition.
Thermal Resistance: R-21 polyiso boards offer higher thermal resistance compared to R-19, which makes them more effective at reducing heat transfer in colder climates.
Mice are curious and always searching for safe, snug, and warm nesting sites. Attics filled with blown-in insulation provide an excellent option–from the mice's point of view. As long as there is a ready food source. Mice are omnivorous and will eat and chew on almost anything including wood and electrical wires.
Yes, it's possible to over-insulate your attic, and doing so can create more problems than benefits. Over insulating an attic can block proper airflow and trap moisture. As a result, it can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and compromised structural integrity.
Whole-house insulation is usually a one- to two-day process, not a long renovation. Work is staged by area to keep the project efficient: Attic insulation and air sealing.
Unfaced insulation is great for new construction, remodels, walls, floors, ceilings, basements, attics and crawlspaces. It's best used for interior wall applications that do not face the outside and also in rooms that don't need moisture control, like living rooms, dining rooms and studies.
For R-19 performance, the insulation will be 5 to 6 inches thick (R- 30 is 8.5 to 10 inches). Install in attics of new and existing homes. Typically also the best choice for framed ceilings in new homes, but can be costly to install as a retrofit in existing framed ceilings.
When balancing upfront cost and overall thermal efficiency, the cheapest and most effective standard insulation is fiberglass batt insulation. However, if you are looking for long-term savings through superior air sealing, dense-pack cellulose often provides the best overall value.
What time of year is Insulation cheapest?
No, R-19 is generally not enough on its own for an attic in most U.S. climates. While it provides some thermal resistance, modern building codes and the U.S. Department of Energy recommend much higher values—typically ranging between R-30 and R-60 depending on your location.
It is a common measure adopted by manufacturers, retailers, and even some contractors to ascertain the performance of insulation. Although R-value is important, it will not help you save on your power bills. The fact is, the energy efficiency of your home does not just rely on a number.
Should I do the project myself or hire a contractor? If your attic is accessible and not too difficult to move around in, and you enjoy tackling bigger home improvement projects, attic insulating may be a good DIY project. Otherwise, consider finding a contractor to complete the project for you.
Because spray foam can trap moisture, hide the condition of the roof, make it difficult for surveyors to inspect, which means risks like timber decay, dry rot, and not forgetting increased fire risk. If you've got it or you're buying a property that does, this is something you need to know upfront.
You will MOST LIKELY need a building permit if your attic remodel involves: Creating a “habitable space”: Converting an unfinished attic into a bedroom, office, playroom, or any other living area almost always requires a permit.
In most cases, mice are nocturnal, which means they usually remain in their nest during the day. A mouse can venture out at night to search for food. If a mouse has been disturbed and feels uncertain or threatened, it may move out of the attic during the day.
The higher the R-Value, the better the thermal performance of the insulation. The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to R-38 or about 10 to 14 inches, depending on insulation type.