Fiberglass insulation is the most popular choice for homes, especially in hot climates. It provides an economical R-value per inch and has a low environmental impact and immediate energy savings. After you install the main attic insulation, you can use spray insulation foam to cover any cracks or gaps. Cellulose can also be used, but it tends to degrade faster than fiberglass.
Spray foam is also easy to fit into windows, but it can be more difficult to install. Seal foam insulation works great for these purposes, forming a solid barrier that prevents heat transfer and resists moisture. If you can't use spray insulation foam everywhere, focus on waterproof materials to make sure the insulation doesn't break down quickly or cause mold. In hot-climate areas like southern Arizona, we usually suggest blown fiberglass and a radiant barrier. Blown fiberglass insulation provides a dense and effective barrier against heat loss, and is also one of the most eco-friendly insulation options.
Proper installation is essential for blow insulation, as special equipment and safety measures are needed to ensure long-term performance. Improving attic insulation benefits homeowners by improving home comfort and saving money on heating and cooling costs and extending the life of HVAC equipment. Your attic is hot in summer and cold in winter, so you need a good insulating barrier to stop unconditioned air from being transferred to the conditioned part of the house and vice versa. Consider the difference between the two and the importance of a proper installation to understand the true value of insulation. Knowing the type of insulation you have will help you decide if you want to preserve and improve your existing insulation, or if your home improvement project requires everything to be replaced. At the home improvement store, you'll find a variety of different types of insulation for your attic.
Aerosol foam insulation is by far the best type of insulation for hot climates, as it has significantly higher R values than other types of insulation. In fact, insulating the attic can save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs, according to the U. S. Department of Energy.
We recommend Reflectix Attic Uncoated Roll Reflective Insulation, which is specifically designed for attics, according to the manufacturer. Homeowners often think that insulating the attic can be a DIY project; however, it can be quite a dirty and big task. If you want to insulate your attic yourself or trust an insulation contractor to help you get the job done, understanding the different types of insulation can help you make the best decision for your home.
