Learn the ins and outs of installing various types of home insulation
When thinking about renovating their homes, homeowners may imagine changing wall colors, expanding room sizes or upgrading appliances and fixtures. However, unless people take inventory of the less glamorous components of the home, such as structure, plumbing, heating and cooling, and insulation, other improvements may be for naught.
A home-insulation project certainly does not offer the wow factor of a kitchen remodel, but insulation serves a vital function in the house that helps keep people comfortable and reduces energy consumption. Insulation, which is typically placed in areas where air escapes, such as between the stud cavities inside the walls and in the attic, serves to slow and reduce heat transfer.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, between 50 and 70 percent of the energy used in homes is for heating and cooling. By improving home insulation, homeowners can make their homes more comfortable, consistent and efficient. In fact, the ENERGY STAR program overseen by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says homeowners stand to save an average of 15 percent on heating and cooling costs by adding proper insulation. To do so, homeowners can take a crash course in home insulation and find the products that fit their needs.
Blanket batts and rolls
Blanket batts and rolls are typically constructed with fiberglass, so proper safety gear, such as a mask and gloves, is needed when handling fiberglass. Installing this type of insulation is relatively easy because the materials are designed to fit the standard width between studs, rafters and floor joists.
Loose fill
Loose fill is usually made of fiberglass or cellulose (recycled paper fiber). This type of insulation is blown or sprayed into place with pneumatic equipment, according to The Home Depot. Loose fill can be ideal for hardto-reach areas in attics or inside wall cavities. It is good for adding insulation to irregularly shaped areas. Since installing loose fill requires special equipment, this is a job best left to pros.
Sprayed foam
Sprayed foam is just as the name implies, a foam made from polyurethane, polyisocyanurate, cementitious or other materials that are applied by a spray container. DIYers who need only small applications can use canned products. Large quantities are pressure-sprayed by professionals.
Foam board/rigid foam panels
Ideal for unfinished walls, such as basement or foundation walls, floors and ceilings, these are boards of polyurethane or polystyrene. Foam boards tend to reduce energy consumption more effectively than other types of insulation.