What Are the Different Types of Insulation That Exists Today?

 

Did you know that heating and cooling accounts for around 43% of your yearly energy costs? If you are like most people, you probably want to make sure you save as much as you can.

One of the best ways to do this is by purchasing and installing the best insulation. However, when it comes to types of insulation, there are more than a few to choose from.

One of the best ways to know what insulation is right for your home is to know the most popular options.

The fact is, the right type of insulation can help you create a sustainable home and enjoy significant energy cost savings. Keep reading to learn more about insulation options and what benefits they offer.

Roll Insulation and Blanket Batt Insulation

If you have any experience with insulation, it’s probably the kind in rolls or batts. These blankets are usually made from plastic fibers, mineral wool, natural fibers, and fiberglass.

The most commonly used is fiberglass batt insulation. It is sold with or without foil-kraft facing or kraft paper. This serves as an air and vapor barrier.

One of the biggest benefits of this type of insulation is that you can use it almost anywhere in your home. For example, you can install it in crawl spaces (learn more at https://www.insulatekansascity.com/crawl-space-insulation/), and for unfinished floors.

It’s also affordable and easy to install.

Concrete Block Insulation

With this, concrete blocks are used for building home walls and foundations. There are a few ways to insulate these.

If the blocks’ cores are not filled with concrete and steel for structural purposes, insulation is an option for the core. This will increase the average R-value of the wall.

Unfortunately, though, core fillings don’t offer much in the way of fuel savings since heat moves through the solid portions of the wall. A better strategy is to install insulation on the blocks’ surface on the interior or exterior of the foundation walls.

Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation is popular today because it can be used for finished areas and hard-to-reach spaces.

With this option, liquid polyurethane is sprayed into the wall cavity. It will expand and harden when it is in place, creating a solid foam.

If you have a larger space insulated, you can opt for the pressure sprayed option.

There are two basic constructions when choosing spray foam – closed-cell foam and open-cell foam.

Closed-cell foam has the highest R-value of any other insulation available, but it’s also more expensive. Open-cell foam insulation has a higher R-value than other insulations but not as high as closed-cell foam.

Rigid or Foam Board

Rigid or foam board insulation are sturdier option than batts or rolls. You can find this type of insulation in several thicknesses and materials.

Because of this, their utility is extensive. You can also use these in virtually any part of your home.

They can be used as wall sheathing (externally and internally) for attic hatches, roof insulation, and foundation insulation.

You can find rigid foam insulation in three common types – expanded polystyrene, polyisocyanurate, and extruded polystyrene insulation.

Blown-In or Loose Fill Insulation

With loose-fill insulation, you have a product made of smaller foam particles, fiber, or other types of materials. The small particles for the insulation material mean it will conform to any space without disturbing finishes or structures.

Because loose-fill insulation can conform to any space, it is well suited for retrofits or locations where it will be difficult to use other insulation types.

Some of the common materials used in loose-fill insulation include mineral (slag or rock) wood, fiberglass, and cellulose.

Recycled waste materials make up these products. This means it will contribute to your creation of an eco-friendly home.

Radiant or Reflective Barrier

Radiant or reflective barriers work uniquely compared to other insulation types. Because of this, how effective it is isn’t measured in R-values.

Traditional insulation reduces the heat flow in your home. However, reflective insulation radiates the heat away from your home, preventing heat gain and radiant heat transfer to cooler surfaces inside.

The design of this insulation includes a reflective barrier, like aluminum foil over a substrate material. The material used varies based on the manufacturer.

If you live in a warmer climate, this is a smart option. It can be placed in your attic, between beams, rafters, and joists to prevent heat from entering the home.

Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS)

A structural insulated panel is a type of high-performance building panel. The design features two boards and insulating foam in between them.

Made in factory settings, the panels can be purchased in several sizes. Usually, the foam core is made of EPS, XPS, PUR, or OSB.

Getting to Know the Different Types of Insulation

When it comes to different types of insulation, there are more than a few to consider. Each of these has specific pros and cons, and some work better in certain areas of the home than others.

Because of all the options, it may be smart to work with professionals who can provide more information and insight about modern insulation options. This will also ensure that the insulation is installed properly and that it will do its job.

Did you find the information above helpful? Are you looking for other tips about your home, garden, travel, business, photography, or travel? If so, be sure to check the other blogs we have published on our site – we guarantee you won’t be disappointed.