Home & Real Estate

Types of Attic Insulation: What You Need to Know

Keeping your house’s temperature within a certain range is essential for safety, comfort, and energy efficiency.

The attic is an area that often is overlooked, but also very important in how your house feels inside. Insulation helps keep the temperature in your house stable.

Types of attic insulation can range, offering a variety of benefits depending on what you’re looking for. From cost to function, there are a lot of factors that go into deciding which insulation should best fit your home.

Not sure what type of attic insulation you need?

Let’s go over all the different types of attic insulation, to help you determine what’s best for you and your home!

Contents

Fiberglass Batt Insulation

Fiberglass batt insulation is one of the most commonly used materials for attic insulation. It is an effective and low-cost way to insulate any attic space. The insulation is constructed from sand and recycled glass shards, and can come in rolls or blankets that are easy to cut to size.

Fiberglass batt insulation is flexible, allowing it to fill in gaps and spaces between items stored in an attic, making it ideal for such applications. This material is also treated with non-toxic fire-retardants, making it a good choice for fire safety. 

Blown-In Fiberglass Insulation

Blown-in fiberglass insulation is a highly efficient and commonly used type when you insulate your home. It is typically made of small particles of glass that are formed into very fine fibers. These fibers are then bound together with a polyurethane binding material in a variety of density levels.

The loose-fill nature of the product allows it to be easily distributed in the attic by either blowing or pouring. Because of its low-density characteristics, it has high R-value per inch (7.2) which means that it is able to provide consistent insulation throughout an attic. 

Blown-In Cellulose

Blown in cellulose is one of the most popular types of attic insulation. It is made from recycled, treated newspaper which is fire-resistant and mold-resistant. The product is blown into the attic using a special machine, filling every nook and cranny and providing a complete barrier to the elements.

Because the material is so dense, it provides excellent insulation when properly installed. The post-installation insulation rating can be a full R-49 (about 14 inches of cellulose insulation). Cellulose is an eco-friendly insulation option that is also cost-effective.

Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation is a type of insulation used in attics that is quickly becoming the most preferred choice among residential and commercial property owners. Spray foam insulation consists of two liquid components that, when mixed, form an expanding foam.

This foam is applied to roofs and attic surfaces and creates an airtight seal against cold air, drafts, dust, and other particulates. Spray foam insulation is far more energy efficient than traditional insulation materials and is an effective air barrier.

It is also mold and mildew resistant due to its air tight seal and offers superior noise reduction when compared to fiberglass insulation. Consult a wall and spray insulation contractor to know which option best fits for your needs.

Explore These Types of Attic Insulation

Attic insulation is an important part of your home’s energy efficiency and can help reduce heating and cooling bills. The best types of attic insulation for your attic depends on your home’s climate and construction, the existing insulation levels, and other factors.

Consider your budget and weigh your options to make sure you invest in the best quality product for your home.

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