Attic Insulation Options

For interior insulation this provides perhaps the greatest r value and with proper installation it covers gaps better than most options cons.

Attic insulation options.

Yet polystyrene is a fabulous insulator with r values that range from r 3 8 to r 4 4 per inch of thickness and so it s considered green because it helps save so much energy source. R value measures how resistant types of insulation are to heat flow. So it s time to pay close attention to what s happening up there. Best attic insulation for new homes.

The best roof insulation options for an attic are open cell spray foam fiberglass and cellulose. Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. In fact it s a form of plastic. R values vary based on the type thickness and density of the insulation material.

Cellulose fiberglass or spray foam. Insulation derives its resistance to thermal transfer its r value through the presence of dead air space so compressing the insulation will actually reduce its r value. Insulation decreases the amount of heat entering from outside when it s hot and traps warmth inside when it s cold. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product.

Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material. Ft while closed cell comes in at 1 200. Material costs and going with diy the open cell costs about 600 to cover 1 000 sq. Proper attic insulation is the best way to prevent heat loss in the winter and retain cool air in the summer.

Foam in place insulation can be blown into walls on attic surfaces or under floors to insulate and reduce air leakage. For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices. Polystyrene doesn t sound like a green material. Some installations can yield a higher r value than traditional batt insulation for the same thickness and can fill even the smallest cavities creating an effective air barrier.

Department of energy polystyrene insulation comes in rigid foam boards that make it easy to insulate any part of a building. Attic floors are often heavily insulated and if the existing insulation extends well above the floor joists laying down floor sheathing over the insulation will compress it. Messy unsightly and can be very expensive cost.