When you’re upgrading your home’s insulation, there are several factors you should consider, including the efficiency of the insulation you need. It’s also important to choose insulation suitable for the location you’ll be working on, as there are multiple types of insulation. Insulation is made from multiple types of materials, and has a variety of thicknesses and applications.

Here are several types of insulation and where they work best:

Unfinished walls, ceilings and floors

If you’re tackling a new space or remodeling, these types of insulation are suitable:

• Batts – Easy for homeowners to use because it acts like a roll of insulation and can be applied over a large, unobstructed space.
• Foam board – This thinner insulation gives you a lot of bang for your buck by offering high-efficiency values. It is also effective at preventing thermal bridges when it’s applied over joists or the home’s frame.
• Insulating concrete forms – This insulation is often used for new construction, as the insulation is similar to concrete blocks and is installed when the home’s structure is built. It is highly efficient and creates a high degree of thermal resistance.

Ductwork

Upgrading insulation around the ducts greatly enhances efficiency, but you need to use the right type:

• Rigid fibrous – This type must be generated by an expert HVAC contractor, but is effective at resisting high temperatures with ducts located in an unconditioned area.

Existing walls or attics

To upgrade existing insulation in a retrofit, use these types:

• Loose-fill – This insulation can fit easily around hard-to-reach spaces or uniquely designed areas, and it is most generally blown in.
• Spray foam (or foam in place) – Similar to loose-fill, this insulation adheres into cracks and crevices easily, and it’s sprayed into place using a hose-like device.

According to experts, upgrading home insulation is one of the more effective ways to reduce heating and cooling costs, because insulation creates a barrier against the transfer of heat, so more of your conditioned air stays inside — where you need it. To find out the types of insulation you need, contact Powers Heating & Airin Peachtree City today.

Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about insulation and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

Powers Heating & Air serves Peachtree, GA and the surrounding areas.  Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!     

Insulation photo via Shutterstock