Comparison Of Wall Insulation Types

The different types of insulation.

Comparison of wall insulation types.

Insulation is rated by its r value. Energy efficiency of insulation products are measured in r value or the resistance to heat flow. R value measures how resistant types of insulation are to heat flow. While rated differently these two types of insulation are close enough in thickness that they can both fit into modern two by four wall systems.

Achieving greater r values in attics the higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. Understanding different insulation materials. The best type of insulation for exterior walls is one that acts as a thermal break acts as a radiant barrier and has an insulated core. R values vary based on the type thickness and density of the insulation material.

When certain types of plastic facers are applied the composite product can feature an r value of up to 3 8 at one inch. You also can find batts and rolls made from mineral rock and slag wool plastic fibers and natural fibers such as cotton and sheep s wool. There are four main types of insulation products on the market today used for attics and wall cavities. Find your zone on the map and then use the chart to determine the level of insulation you need to properly insulate your attic walls floors and crawlspaces.

It consists of flexible fibers most commonly fiberglass. When it comes to choosing the best internal wall insulation for your home there are two main criteria you need to consider. This will increase performance by resisting radiant heat convection and conduction heat transfer. Fiberglass rock wool or slag wool cellulose and spray foam.

The higher the r value the higher the insulating capability. According to the building sciences corporation bsc all insulation types perform equally well when properly installed and air sealed. Insulation decreases the amount of heat entering from outside when it s hot and traps warmth inside when it s cold. When you compare insulation types you ll discover the many advantages of usa premium foam insulation.

Blanket insulation the most common and widely available type of insulation comes in the form of batts or rolls. Eps insulation features an average r value of 3 6 per inch. Older homes especially those pre dating the 1950s may employ two by fours that truly are 2 inches by 4 inches.