top of page
Forest Trees

Insulation

Insulation Installation
Image by Erik Mclean

What is Insulation and What Does It Do for Your Home?

​

Insulation is a material used in homes to reduce the transfer of heat between the inside and outside. It helps keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer by minimizing heat loss and gain through walls, ceilings, floors, and attics.

​

How Insulation Affects Energy Efficiency.

​

Proper or updated insulation can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency. By reducing the amount of energy needed to heat or cool your home, it lowers utility bills and puts less strain on your HVAC system. New insulation materials are often more effective and environmentally friendly, making them a smart investment for both comfort and cost savings.

Where To Insulate

1. Attic

  • Why: Heat rises, and a poorly insulated attic is one of the biggest sources of energy loss in a home. Insulating here helps keep warm air in during winter and hot air out during summer.

2. Walls (Exterior)

  • Why: Insulating exterior walls improves overall temperature control, reduces noise from outside, and lowers heating/cooling costs year-round.

3. Walls (Interior)

  • Why: While not necessary for temperature control, insulating interior walls can help with soundproofing between rooms and maintaining even temperatures in different areas.

4. Floors (Above Unheated Spaces)

  • Examples: Over garages, crawlspaces, or basements.

  • Why: Prevents cold floors and stops heat loss into unconditioned spaces below.

5. Basement Walls

  • Why: Insulating the basement helps regulate indoor temperature, reduce moisture, and prevent drafts or cold spots on the main floor.

6. Crawlspaces

  • Why: Insulating crawlspaces helps protect plumbing, prevent mold from moisture buildup, and improve comfort in the living space above.

7. Ceilings (Under Roof Decks or Between Floors)

  • Why: Insulating between floors can help with sound control and regulate temperature differences between levels in multi-story homes.

8. Ductwork

  • Why: Insulated ducts reduce energy loss when heating or cooling air travels through them—especially important if ducts run through unconditioned areas.

9. Around Windows and Doors (Air Sealing)

  • Why: Insulating or sealing gaps around windows and doors prevents drafts, moisture intrusion, and energy loss.

Types of Insulation

1. Fiberglass Insulation

  • Description: Made from fine glass fibers, this is one of the most common and affordable types of insulation.

  • Forms: Comes in batts, rolls, or loose-fill.

  • Use: Ideal for walls, attics, floors, and ceilings.

2. Spray Foam Insulation

  • Description: A liquid that expands into a foam when applied, creating an air-tight seal.

  • Types: Open-cell (softer, more flexible) and closed-cell (denser, higher R-value).

  • Use: Great for hard-to-reach areas, gaps, and sealing air leaks.

3. Cellulose Insulation

  • Description: Made from recycled paper products treated for fire resistance.

  • Forms: Typically blown into walls or attics.

  • Use: Eco-friendly option for attics and wall cavities.

4. Rigid Foam Board Insulation

  • Description: Panels of polystyrene, polyisocyanurate, or polyurethane.

  • Use: Used on walls, foundations, and under floors for high insulation value in a thin layer.

5. Mineral Wool (Rock Wool or Slag Wool)

  • Description: Made from natural rock or industrial slag.

  • Use: Offers good thermal resistance and fireproofing; used in walls, attics, and floors.

6. Reflective or Radiant Barrier Insulation

  • Description: Made from reflective materials like aluminum foil, designed to reflect heat.

  • Use: Most effective in hot climates; typically installed in attics.

7. Denim (Cotton) Insulation

  • Description: Made from recycled cotton/denim fabric, safe and eco-friendly.

  • Use: Used similarly to fiberglass batts, with good soundproofing qualities.

bottom of page