An important factor in home energy efficiency is the type of insulation used in the building’s construction. Insulation works to provide resistance to heat flow; that is, it keeps heat from coming into your home in the summer and prevents it from migrating away in the winter. The effectiveness of insulation is measured by its R-value. This numerical rating indicates the insulation’s thermal resistance, a measure of its resistance to heat flow. Insulation with a high R-value is more efficient and more effective at restricting the flow of heat.Here are a few of the more common types of insulation used in building construction and home insulation projects.
Blanket insulation: This is probably what most people think of when they think of insulation—thick layers of fiberglass insulation installed between joists, studs, beams and boards in walls and ceilings. This type of insulation can also be made of mineral wool or various types of plastic or natural fibers. You'll see it often in unfinished walls, foundations, floors and ceilings.
Loose fill: This type of insulation consists of small balls or pellets that are blown or poured into open spaces in unfinished walls, floors and ceilings. The pellets can be made of cellulose, fiberglass, or mineral wool. Loose fill insulation is very useful in insulating areas that are are hard to reach with blanket insulation, such as tight, small spaces in attics or in irregularly-shaped areas around design or construction elements.
Spray foam: This insulation is made of polyurethane or other plastic-type foam which is sprayed into place in wall cavities and unfinished floors. Spray foam insulation then dries into a solid heat-blocking mass. Spray foam insulation is a good choice for irregularly-shaped spaces or places where there are obstructions such as pipes or beams.
Air Assurance has over 30 years of experience serving the residential HVAC needs of the Tulsa and Broken Arrow areas. Contact us today for more information on insulation types and for help choosing the kind of insulation that will work best to keep your home comfortable and energy efficient.Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Air Assurance services Tulsa, Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas. Visit our websiteto see our current promotionsand get started today! Helpful Tips image via Shutterstock