How To Choose Insulation

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 50% to 70% of the energy used in homes is for heating or cooling activities. By properly insulating your home, you can create a more comfortable and consistent indoor climate while significantly improving your home's energy efficiency.  This buying guide will help you learn about the different types of insulation used in residential construction, and give you the knowledge and confidence necessary to make the right purchase decision to meet your home insulation needs.

Insulating your roof or ceiling will help keep your home at a pleasant temperature while saving you money on energy bills. With energy costs on the rise, maximizing the energy efficiency of your home is more important than ever before.

R-Value
	When choosing insulation, one of the most important qualities to note is the R-value, which indicates how well insulation resists heat transfer. R-values vary based on the type, thickness and density of the material being used. Insulation with a higher R-value will perform better than insulation with a lower rating. To determine the amount of insulation you need in each area, see Insulation R-Values.
Where Form Meets Efficiency
The most common insulation types are fiberglass, cellulose and foam. These types of insulation are available in a number of different forms. The type you need will depend on which type is currently installed and the required R value.

Insulation Types and Forms
Blown-in/Loose Fill
	Blow-in Insulation or loose fill insulation is usually made of fiberglass or cellulose (recycled paper fiber). It is blown or sprayed into place with pneumatic equipment and is ideal for use in hard-to-reach areas, such as attics. It can also be used to fill wall cavities and can be installed over existing insulation.
Batts
	Batts are precut sections of fiberglass or rock wool insulation that are designed for easy handling and use between framing, such as studs and joists. Batts are available either with or without paper or aluminum foil facing. They can be used in floors, walls, attics and ceilings.
Rolls
	Like batt insulation, rolls are available in pre-cut widths to fit between studs and joists, but come in longer continuous lengths ranging from 20 to 40 linear feet. This makes rolled insulation an excellent choice for attics, floors and other areas where longer runs are needed.
Foam Board
	Foam board insulation, or rigid panels of insulation can be used to insulate almost any part of your home, from the roof down to the foundation. Polystyrene and polyurethane are the most common types of materials used in making foam board. Foam board insulation sheathing reduces heat conduction through structural elements like wood and steel studs.
Spray Foam
	Latex or polyurethane spray foam is sprayed into place with a spray can or specially designed equipment. Spray foam can be used to fill small gaps and cracks and is ideal for sealing around doors, windows and vents. Special equipment to apply foam to larger areas. Spray foam sets quickly and can be trimmed, painted or stained.
Vapor Barriers
House wraps and kraft faced insulation are examples of vapor barriers that help control the amount of moisture that passes through the insulation. If moisture from either direction is allowed to build up within stud or cavity walls, the heat-conducting moisture will cause the insulation will lose its R-value and allow mold and rot to set in over time. Vapor barriers are most commonly used when framing the exterior walls of a house.