Attic insulation performs a critical function in residence energy performance. In actual fact, most building scientists agree that the attic should be the first «goal» space for insulation and air-sealing upgrades. Most homes are constructed with code-required minimal levels of attic insulation that are far beneath current suggestions 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 select one of the best insulation upgrade on your attic.
Fiberglass batts
Fiberglass batt insulation is widespread 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 frequent than confronted batts in attic installations.
PROS: More affordable than other types of attic insulation. Best type of insulation for DIYers to install. Unlike blown insulation, batts might be lifted up and moved to provide access to the ceiling under, can lights and ceiling-mounted vent fans. Existing batt insulation can often be left in place when blown insulation is added to increase overall R-worth in the attic.
CONS: Difficult to put in appropriately around obstructions. Voids the place insulation is lacking contribute to significant energy loss. A number of layers of batt insulation are required to achieve really helpful R-values in most parts of the country; this makes it unimaginable to make use of the attic for storage unless particular platforms are built prior to insulation installation. Fiberglass insulation cannot stop air movement.
Blown insulation
Two major 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: Set up could be completed quickly and affordably. Blown insulation typically ends in more complete coverage than is possible with fiberglass batts.
CONS: A thick layer of insulation (no less than sixteen in. for northern parts of the U.S.) is required, and this makes it not possible to use the attic space for storage unless particular platforms are built prior to putting in 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 making use of a thick layer of spray foam between the rafters. Two types of foam are used: open-cell and closed-cell. Opinions range as to which type is best in an attic set up, however closed-cell spray foam is used more frequently.
PROS: Closed-cell spray foam provides the highest R-value per in. (about R-6) of any attic insulation. It also creates an air and moisture barrier, so it eliminates the need 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 also improves the efficiency of HVAC elements (like air handlers and ductwork) situated within the attic.
CONS: Costliest attic insulation. A thick layer of foam utilized to the underside of the roof sheathing can trap moisture and cause sheathing to rot.
Rigid foam
Inflexible foam hasn’t been used as extensively for attic insulation until a most up-to-date development. In one distinctive system, a proprietary inflexible foam panel is fastened to the underside of attic rafters, forming an air and thermal barrier.
PROS: Provides all the benefits of spray foam, with the additional benefit of sustaining 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 -one other advantage over spray foam.
CONS: The system is available in limited areas, so it’s not as widely available as spray foam. Set up price is greater than fiberglass batts and blown insulation, but competitive with spray foam.
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