House Insulation Advice

When you want to increase the heating and cooling efficiency of your home and lower your energy bill, adding insulation can be the most cost effective way to achieve your goal. Choosing the right kind of insulation and installing it can be a challenge, but with careful planning you can be successful.

What kind of insulation do I use?

There are different types of insulation you can use for different areas of your home. The four basic kinds of insulation are loose fill, foam, blankets and batts. What you may not know is that the purpose for insulation is to limit air movement. This will keep warm air in and cold air out, and vice versa. The kind you choose directly relates to where you put the insulation. Remember that the key to proper insulation is picking he correct R-Value. The Department of Energy suggests that the higher R-Values have better resistance to heat flow, and thus are more effective. The DOE also suggests that you carefully examine labels of all insulation prior to purchase for manufacturer's recommendations on location and installation.

Where should I put insulation?

Aim for areas that have never been insulated, such as your attic, for the greatest return in energy savings. Unfinished attic rooms, floors that are above cold spaces, and exterior walls should all be insulated. Check storm windows and doors for cracks or spaces and fill with insulating caulk. Move next to add insulation in areas that need more protection. The Department of Energy suggests that you get an energy audit of your home to discover how much R-Value your home has. Next, you can use the DOE Zip Code Tool, a program to help you identify how much more insulation you need based on where you live. The energy audit will help you determine where to put that extra R-Value.

How is insulation installed?

Remember to use safety precautions when installing insulation of any kind. You will be dealing with sensitive materials, like fiberglass, which can be harmful to your skin and lungs. Wear gloves and a dust mask during the entire process. Installing insulation correctly is just as important as purchasing the right R-Value. If insulation is installed compressed, it will not stop the airflow as intended. Also, be aware of joists and beams in rafters, under your floor, or in a wall. Wood will conduct heat in a process known as thermal bridging, resulting in a lower R-Value than intended. Be sure to consider insulative sheathing and covers for joist tops.