Optimal Insulation For Attic

This type of insulation.

Optimal insulation for attic.

Because the simplest and cheapest way to insulate an attic is to add material to the floor. Achieving greater r values in attics the higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. First things first you need to go up into your attic inspect the condition of the insulation and calculate the current level of insulation. But if the floor is covered in plywood you can t stuff enough insulation beneath it to do the job sufficiently not even in warm climates.

R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it. Your attic should have a certain amount of insulation in it and the recommended level of insulation for your attic is dependent on where you live. Insulation level are specified by r value. A large machine outside churns the chunks and uses air to blow them up through the hose.

The installer taking his best firefighter pose holds a large hose and blows the chunks into the attic. Radiant barrier insulation makes use of reflective materials often foil to keep heat from entering through the roof into your attic. See the department of energy s doe ranges for recommended levels of insulation below. Plan to pull up the flooring and layer new insulation on top of the old.

A better choice is insulation that comes in smaller chunks. 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. The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and locations in the home. Rolls and batts are produced of mineral wool and fiberglass.

The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. Attic insulation for homes that are situated in cold climates homeowners need to ensure that they have a minimum of r 49 in their attics this is equivalent to about 16 inches of fibreglass insulation. If your home is in a warmer climate you require an r 38 or higher or about 12 more. Among commonly used types of insulation there are mineral wool or fiberglass rolls and batts rigid fiberglass board loose fill materials cellulose mineral wool etc.

Blanket insulation is available as batts or rolls and is the easiest diy insulation material. If installed properly radiant barriers can be of benefit in.