Best Attic Insulation Options

So it s time to pay close attention to what s happening up there.

Best attic insulation options.

Cellulose insulation is calculated based on the depth of the blown in insulation. Spray foam offers the best attic insulation performance available. Fiberglass insulation in rolls or batts can be easily added by the homeowner. In fact it s a form of plastic.

For interior insulation this provides perhaps the greatest r value and with proper installation it covers gaps better than most options cons. Rolls and batts are produced of mineral wool and fiberglass. They sport insulation values of approximately r 6 5 and r 3 6 per inch respectively. The attic is the easiest place to insulate and the most important in terms of saving money and energy.

Closed cell and open cell aka 2 pound and pound respectively. It s generally 3 to 4 times what you ll pay for blown cellulose or fiberglass. The big disadvantage with spray foam is cost. Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation.

Foam in place insulation can be blown into walls on attic surfaces or under floors to insulate and reduce air leakage. I d blow insulation on the attic floor after air sealing of course. Modern technology of blanket insulation today is considered the best insulation for attic. Spray foam attic insulation.

For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product. Sealing large air leaks is next followed by insulating the basement. Proper attic insulation is the best way to prevent heat loss in the winter and retain cool air in the summer.

Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material. Blown in insulation requires the least amount of work but requires special tools and equipment. Choose from two types. Ft while closed cell comes in at 1 200.

Department of energy polystyrene insulation comes in rigid foam boards that make it easy to insulate any part of a building. A federal energy tax credit can help homeowners recoup their insulation investment if they complete the improvements by the end of 2007. 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. 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. Fiberglass insulation is calculated based on the number of batts or rolls you need. If you don t have hvac and ducts in the attic spray foam on the roofline isn t really necessary.