Foam Board or Rigid Foam For ceiling applications, rigid board roof insulation types are ideal. The foam is easy to install and performs efficiently. It is possible to achieve
Fiberglass batts are one of the most popular choices for ceiling insulation. Made from recycled glass and sand, they are highly effective at retaining heat and reducing noise. Pros: Easy to install, cost-effective, fire retardant, and eco-friendly.
I would not put anything less than R5. Even R6 if you can get it. Good insulation is one of the best bang for your buck improvements you can make. It really isn't worth saving a little on lower R values, for something you will have in there for 20+ years.
Unfaced means the insulation lacks a vapor retarder (paper or plastic facing). Unfaced insulation is great for new construction, remodels, walls, floors, ceilings, basements, attics and crawlspaces.
For 2×6 walls, you need an R-value of 19, and the recommended wall insulation R-value for all zones falls between 19 to 21. If you decide to insulate the ceilings, they should have a minimum ceiling insulation R-value of 30.
House insulation: The most effective insulation
So having in mind that spray foam, fiberglass, and cellulose are the three mostly used insulation materials we made a comparison, and here are the results: Spray foam has by far the highest R-value, which is crucial for homes in extremely cold climates.
Most climates require a vapor barrier to cover ceiling insulation, but not all insulation requires a vapor barrier. It's always important to refer to your state's building codes.
Blanket: Batt and Roll Insulation
Blanket insulation -- the most common and widely available type of insulation -- comes in the form of batts or rolls. It consists of flexible fibers, most commonly fiberglass.
When it comes to insulation, it's generally recommended to leave a gap between the insulation material and any other surfaces, such as walls, ceilings, or roofs. This gap provides ventilation and prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to mould and other problems.
It is possible to over-insulate your house so much that it can't breathe. The whole point of home insulation is to tightly seal your home's interior. But if it becomes too tightly sealed with too many layers of insulation, moisture can get trapped inside those layers.
The most affordable options include fibreglass batts, cellulose insulation, and spray foam, each offering unique benefits for various home types and needs. Fibreglass batts are easy to install and widely available, making them a popular choice for many homeowners.
R-Value is a measure of insulation's ability to resist heat flow. 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.
Thermablok® Aerogel is a revolutionary advancement in thermal technology offering the thinnest insulation available to prevent thermal and cold bridging. Classed as a Super Insulation, Aerogel has the highest insulation value of any known material with the lowest thermal conductivity value of any solid (0.015W/mK).
Effective ceiling insulation is the best barrier against the summer heat and the winter cold, saving you up to 20% on your heating and cooling energy costs.
Popular and affordable options are fiberglass batts, wool batts, and spray foam.
Batt insulation is a type of insulation blanket. These are pre-cut sections of insulation that are usually fiberglass, although cellulose, mineral wool, natural fibers and plastic versions are also available. This type of insulation is the best insulation for unfinished walls, floors and ceilings.
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.
Determine what R-Value you need. Generally speaking, the higher the R-value, the better the insulation. Insulation won't turn your home into a hotbox – in summer and winter, it'll stop temperature from transferring into your comfortable living areas.
Should I Put Vapor Barrier Plastic Over Insulation Before Drywall? Yes, covering your insulation with a vapor barrier plastic before installing drywall is crucial. It prevents moisture buildup that can lead to mold, rot, and even structural damage.
Install the vapor barrier on the warm side of the insulation.
Remember: When installing during cold climates, the vapor barrier should face the home's interior. Conversely, the vapor barrier should face the house's exterior during hot weather climates.
Rigid foam board insulation is available in many materials, including polystyrene (R-3.8 to R-5.0), polyurethane (R-5.5 to R-6.5) and polyisocyanurate (R-5.6 to R-8.0). Since it has the highest R-value, rigid foam is typically reserved for foundations and basement walls.
In many ways, mineral wool is a superior insulation product. It has a higher R-value per inch compared to fiberglass, about a 22-37% higher R-value. It contains 70% recycled material, making it a greener product than fiberglass at 20-30% recycled material..
Fibreglass insulation is the most effective for frigid climates; it can be applied to walls, lofts, and other areas where heat may escape. Adding insulation can reduce energy costs and maintain a comfortable residence throughout the winter.