When it comes to insulating your home, the R-value of the insulation is an important factor to consider. This measure indicates how well a type of insulation can prevent heat from entering or leaving the house. Depending on where you live and the part of your house you are insulating, different R-values are recommended. For example, exterior walls typically require insulation with an R-value between R13 and R23, while roofs and attics require insulation with an R-value between R30 and R49. Insulation indices are measured in R values per inch of thickness.
When deciding what type of insulation is best for your attic, there are several elements to consider such as age, location and construction materials. Homeowners in the southern United States should use materials with an R-value between R30 and R60 for their attic insulation, while those in the northern United States should use materials with an R-value between R49 and R60. Additionally, installing more layers of insulation to exterior walls is essential for a higher R value and better thermal performance. A certified attic specialist can help you determine the right amount of insulation for your attic and explain what the ideal R-value should be.
They can also help you decide if adding more material above the installed insulation is necessary. Furthermore, they can provide advice on how to improve insulation in attics and other tight spaces in your home. Researching strategies to improve insulation in attics is a worthwhile investment of time, and the best starting point is to know the recommended R-values for your area. Once you find the area of your home on this map, you can use the following table of insulation R-values to determine the minimum R-value your insulation should have.
Adequate insulation on floors, exterior walls, tight spaces and, in particular, in the attic of your home is vital to minimize cooling costs and heat transfer. Investing in proper attic insulation will help you save money on energy bills and ensure that your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system works as efficiently as possible.
