With a renewed interest in increased energy efficiency, many homeowners are electing to bolster the insulative properties of their homes. Insulation can tip the scales in a positive direction when it comes to energy efficiency, and the philosophy behind that tactic is quite simple. A home that has more stable temperatures and less temperature transfer will be easier and cheaper to heat and cool, and bulking up insulation helps keep the temperature inside your home stable and steady.
Despite the many benefits of adequate household insulation, many older homes weren't built to embrace the advantages of thorough insulation. That doesn't mean that the average homeowner can't add more insulation, however. In fact, there are multiple ways to introduce additional insulation to your home, particularly in the attic. That will help you to be a better steward of your energy resources while saving money in the process. Keep reading to learn a few ways to insulate your attic to lower energy costs.
Roll-On or Blanket Insulation
If you plan to install the insulation yourself, your best bet is to select quality roll-on or blanket insulation to get the job done. It's simple and convenient to install, as the thick fiberglass batts come in rolls that are just wide enough to fill the spaces between the structural framing in the attic. The fiberglass is rolled out and can be added in perpendicular layers to create an effective layer of insulation between the uncontrolled climate of the attic and your interior living spaces.
Blow-In Cellulose Insulation
Because not everyone has access to the equipment needed to apply blow-in insulation, that's a task best suited for professionals. However, blow-in insulation provides yet another effective barrier against temperature differences. It consists of loose-fill cellulose that's blown into every crack and crevice in your attic floor. The cellulose insulation is made of recycled paper fiber that's treated with boric acid to resist insects and increase fire resistance. Blanket insulation is effective, but there are gaps where the insulation can't fill, leaving tiny spaces that can detract from energy efficiency. However, blow-in insulation finds even the smallest gaps and fills them, providing a consistent and unbreeched layer of insulating material.
Blow-In Fiberglass Insulation
The other type of blow-in insulation uses fiberglass instead of cellulose. Its R-value is slightly lower than cellulose, but modern fiberglass is reliable even down to temperatures as low as 20 degrees F. The downside to blow-in fiberglass is that the fibers in the material can irritate the skin and lungs, which means that any future visits to the attic must include the use of a respirator.
Sprayed Insulation
Sprayed insulation differs from blanket and blow-in insulation in that it's used to insulate the ceiling of the attic rather than the attic floor. This style of insulation uses polyurethane foam that's sprayed on the attic surface, where it clings and creates an excellent temperature barrier. It also has the added benefit of providing an effective vapor barrier and a high R-rating. While sprayed foam insulation has tremendous upside, it's also the most expensive type of insulation and is usually reserved for attic spaces that will be converted into living areas.
If you're looking for a way to improve the energy efficiency of your home, check your attic for proper insulation and add more if you find it lacking. There are several ways of applying additional insulation to your attic, so do your research to determine which best fits your needs. When you're ready to insulate your attic to improve your home's energy efficiency, contact Findlay Roofing at (770) 516-5806.
