Choosing the Right R-Value for Insulation

Thermal insulation is a driving need today. It works as a barrier that makes the home energy efficient by say, keeping the heat from escaping outside in the winter or preventing hot air from seeping indoors come summer. Therefore, the same insulation cleverly works to keep the house warm in winter and cool in summer!

Different materials such as fiberglass, rock wool, cotton, cellulose, natural fibers and foam boards are used to control the movement of heat through the walls, attic and basements and thus conserve energy use.

But different materials insulate to varying degrees and how well a certain material insulates is indicated by its R-value. In technical terms, R-value measures the resistance to heat flow through a specified thickness of material.

So, how do you decide which material to use for roof or wall insulation? Well, this depends on various factors such as:

• It follows that the higher the R-value, the more effective is the insulation per inch of thickness. For instance, fiberglass has the lowest R-value in the range of 2.2 to 3.8 per inch while polyurethane foam tops the charts with a whopping R-value of 5.6 to 8 per inch!
• But the manner of packing or density affects the actual R-value of the same material – loose fiberglass or stone wool carry a markedly lower R-value than batts of the same material.
• Similarly, the actual technique used to insulate the wall, attic or basement also dictates the R-value and efficiency of the insulating material. For example, the R-value is lower when fiberglass or rock wool is just filled into the cavities for blanket insulation. The level of insulation distinctly rises when the same material is ‘blown’ into the space with a powerful blower!
• Moreover, the full R-value of the insulation can be realized only when it is properly installed. Even foam boards may fail to shield the house when the set up is faulty. Therefore, it is always better to leave the task to experienced professionals!
• The choice and amount of insulation also depends on the location of the house. Definite R-value requirements are specified for walls, attic, floor and basements based on the climate and other factors. A house in a warm climate will require about R-38 insulation in the attic whereas a colder place necessitates at least an R-49. (12 inches and 16 inches of fiber glass insulation respectively)
• The effectiveness of the ceiling or wall insulation is also influenced by the joists and studs respectively as heat tends to flow more rapidly through them.
• Even the type of heating or cooling system used in the house dictates both the required type of insulation and R-value.

In sum, consider the various factors before choosing the material and type of insulation to use for keeping your house safe and comfortable!

The author is a talented author and blogger who likes to share interesting tips and ideas about energy saving.Being an environment friendly person he emphasizes on using various eco-friendly energy efficient products.