When shopping for new insulation for your home, it is important to know the different types available. This quick guide will help you better understand some of your options.
Blankets Batts/Rolls
This is the most common type of insulation used for most homes and for new construction. This type of insulation is made from fiberglass. However, some options are made from cotton, mineral wood, and even sheep’s wool. Homeowners often choose this option because it is cheap and easy to install. It is designed to fit easily into the standard width between wall studs, rafters, and floor joists.
You should use extreme caution when using fiberglass as it can be a lung irritant.
Spray Foam
This is a good option for places in your home that may have gaps that need to be filled. This type of insulation is made of liquid polyurethane. It is sprayed directly into the cavity of the walls. Once it has made contact, it will start to expand. It then hardens into a solid.
Spray foam is often used to add an extra layer of insulation to areas that have already been insulated.
Blown Insulation
This option is usually done by a professional. It is blown into the space using a machine. It is usually made of fiberglass, rock wool, or cellulose material. Since machinery must be used, it is often best to let a professional help you with this type of insulation.
Foam Panels
Foam panels are a rigid type of insulation that works great for insulating an uneven low-sloped roof or for use on floors. This insulation can reduce the heat that is conducted through the wood, including wall studs. It is also great to use as interior or exterior wall sheathing.
Rock Wool
Rock wool, also sometimes called mineral wool, is made from lava rock. This insulation material is good for average wood frame structures. This insulation not only insulates heat but also sound. Rock wool is easy to install and can be DIY.
Loose Fill
Loose fill insulation, sometimes called cellulose insulation, is another type of blown-in insulation. It is often used in attic floors or horizontal spaces that are hard to fill with other types of insulation. It’s a good option if you are looking for an insulation material that is kind to the environment or environmental insulation. Loose fill is made from recycled newspaper or denim.
It is a good idea to get the help of a professional if you want the insulation blown in properly. However, it can be done DIY if you follow the instructions carefully for hand application. Remember that this type of insulation is often sprayed with chemicals to discourage animals from burrowing in it. If exposure to chemicals is something you are concerned about, you will want to do your research concerning how the insulation has been treated.
Insulation is an important part of your construction expenses. It is important to know the different options available to make the best choice. You can start by researching open cell vs closed cell insulation and BAT vs blown-in insulation.