Attic insulation performs a critical role in house energy performance. Actually, most building scientists agree that the attic ought to be the first «goal» space for insulation and air-sealing upgrades. Most houses are constructed with code-required minimal levels of attic insulation that are far under current recommendations established by the U.S. Dept. of Energy.
Homeowners considering an attic insulation upgrade have a number of various insulation materials to consider. Each attic insulating option has distinct advantages and limitations. Understanding these pros and cons might help you choose one of the best insulation upgrade for your attic.
Fiberglass batts
Fiberglass batt insulation is standard because it’s affordable and universally available. Regardless of age, many houses have attics insulated with fiberglass batts. The batts are typically installed between attic floor joists, and unfaced batts are more widespread than confronted batts in attic installations.
PROS: More affordable than different types of attic insulation. Best type of insulation for DIYers to install. Unlike blown insulation, batts may be lifted up and moved to provide access to the ceiling beneath, can lights and ceiling-mounted vent fans. Present batt insulation can often be left in place when blown insulation is added to extend general R-worth within the attic.
CONS: Troublesome to put in appropriately around obstructions. Voids the place insulation is missing contribute to significant energy loss. A number of layers of batt insulation are required to achieve advisable R-values in most parts of the country; this makes it unimaginable to use the attic for storage unless particular platforms are built prior to insulation installation. Fiberglass insulation cannot stop air movement.
Blown insulation
Two foremost types of blown (or blow-in) insulation are commonly used: cellulose and loose-fill fiberglass. Each types are designed to be installed utilizing particular blowing equipment.
PROS: Installation might be completed quickly and affordably. Blown insulation typically ends in more complete coverage than is feasible with fiberglass batts.
CONS: A thick layer of insulation (at the least 16 in. for northern parts of the U.S.) is required, and this makes it inconceivable to use the attic house for storage unless special platforms are built prior to installing the insulation. Cellulose and loose-fill fiberglass insulation can’t stop air movement.
Spray foam
Professional spray foam insulation contractors typically insulate an attic by applying a thick layer of spray foam between the rafters. Two types of froth are used: open-cell and closed-cell. Opinions vary as to which type is finest in an attic installation, however closed-cell spray foam is used more frequently.
PROS: Closed-cell spray foam provides the highest R-worth per in. (about R-6) of any attic insulation. It additionally creates an air and moisture barrier, so it eliminates the necessity for separate air-sealing work. Insulating beneath the roof deck instead of on the attic floor frees up attic space for storage and different purposes. This strategy additionally improves the effectivity of HVAC components (like air handlers and ductwork) located within the attic.
CONS: Most expensive attic insulation. A thick layer of froth utilized to the underside of the roof sheathing can trap moisture and cause sheathing to rot.
Rigid foam
Rigid foam hasn’t been used as extensively for attic insulation till a most recent development. In a single unique system, a proprietary inflexible foam panel is fastened to the underside of attic rafters, forming an air and thermal barrier.
PROS: Provides all of the benefits of spray foam, with the additional benefit of maintaining attic ventilation. The potential for roof sheathing moisture damage is eliminated. The rigid foam is faced with a radiant barrier that displays heat for additional energy savings -another advantage over spray foam.
CONS: The system is available in limited areas, so it’s not as widely available as spray foam. Installation price is bigger than fiberglass batts and blown insulation, however competitive with spray foam.
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