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Attic insulation performs a critical position in dwelling energy performance. In truth, most building scientists agree that the attic needs to be the first “goal” space for insulation and air-sealing upgrades. Most properties are built with code-required minimal levels of attic insulation which are far beneath current recommendations established by the U.S. Dept. of Energy.

Homeowners considering an attic insulation upgrade have a number of various insulation materials to consider. Every attic insulating option has distinct advantages and limitations. Understanding these pros and cons can assist you choose the best insulation upgrade in your attic.

Fiberglass batts

Fiberglass batt insulation is widespread because it’s affordable and universally available. Regardless of age, many houses have attics insulated with fiberglass batts. The batts are typically installed between attic floor joists, and unfaced batts are more widespread than confronted batts in attic installations.

PROS: More affordable than different types of attic insulation. Best type of insulation for DIYers to install. Unlike blown insulation, batts can be lifted up and moved to provide access to the ceiling beneath, can lights and ceiling-mounted vent fans. Present batt insulation can typically be left in place when blown insulation is added to extend general R-value in the attic.

CONS: Tough to install accurately round obstructions. Voids the place insulation is missing contribute to significant energy loss. Multiple layers of batt insulation are required to achieve beneficial R-values in most parts of the country; this makes it inconceivable to use the attic for storage unless special platforms are constructed previous to insulation installation. Fiberglass insulation cannot stop air movement.

Blown insulation

Two important types of blown (or blow-in) insulation are commonly used: cellulose and loose-fill fiberglass. Each types are designed to be installed utilizing particular blowing equipment.

PROS: Set up could be completed quickly and affordably. Blown insulation typically results in more full coverage than is possible with fiberglass batts.

CONS: A thick layer of insulation (at least 16 in. for northern parts of the U.S.) is required, and this makes it unimaginable to make use of the attic space for storage unless particular platforms are built prior to putting in the insulation. Cellulose and loose-fill fiberglass insulation can’t stop air movement.

Spray foam

Professional spray foam insulation contractors typically insulate an attic by making use of a thick layer of spray foam between the rafters. Two types of froth are used: open-cell and closed-cell. Opinions differ as to which type is greatest in an attic set up, however closed-cell spray foam is used more frequently.

PROS: Closed-cell spray foam provides the highest R-value per in. (about R-6) of any attic insulation. It also creates an air and moisture barrier, so it eliminates the necessity for separate air-sealing work. Insulating beneath the roof deck instead of on the attic floor frees up attic space for storage and other purposes. This strategy additionally improves the effectivity of HVAC components (like air handlers and ductwork) situated within the attic.

CONS: Most expensive attic insulation. A thick layer of foam applied to the underside of the roof sheathing can trap moisture and cause sheathing to rot.

Inflexible foam

Inflexible foam hasn’t been used as extensively for attic insulation until a most recent development. In a single distinctive system, a proprietary rigid foam panel is fastened to the underside of attic rafters, forming an air and thermal barrier.

PROS: Provides all the benefits of spray foam, with the additional benefit of sustaining attic ventilation. The potential for roof sheathing moisture damage is eliminated. The rigid foam is confronted with a radiant barrier that displays heat for additional energy financial savings -another advantage over spray foam.

CONS: The system is available in limited areas, so it’s not as widely available as spray foam. Set up price is greater than fiberglass batts and blown insulation, but competitive with spray foam.

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