The insulation in your home acts as its primary defense against temperature change. Depending on its structure, it may have just one or two types, but if you need to add more, you may have more choices appropriate for the exact places where you need it.

Batts

Rolled fiberglass batts are the most common type of insulating materials used in new home construction because they’re effective, affordable and easy to install. Recycled denim and rock wool (also known as mineral wool) batts are also available. Rock wool is made by melting rocks.

• In new construction, batts are used in attics, walls and basement or crawl space ceilings. They’re used in existing homes to insulate attics and unfinished ceilings.

Loose

Cellulose, rock wool and fiberglass are the most common blown-in types of insulating materials. Cellulose is made from recycled newspapers and treated with borates to prevent insect invasions, repel moisture and retard fire. Of the types of loose insulation, cellulose is the heaviest and tends to pack down.

• Loose products are used in new construction in attics and walls. They can be used in existing homes in attics and blown into existing walls using a hole saw and blower. It’s possible to blow loose products over batts in attics.

Foam

Synthetic foam products are available as sprayed-on or rigid foam sheets. They cost more than other insulating materials, but provide more protection against thermal transfer. Sprayed foams are normally applied by professionals since they require special equipment and chemicals. Rigid foam sheets are easy to cut and install in wall cavities or between ceiling joists. Kits are also available to insulate garage doors.

• Sprayed foams are used in small, tight spaces in attics and walls. They are often used on the ceilings for retrofit attic spaces and in existing walls. They are sometimes used to coat flat roofs, or on the roof decking for vaulted ceilings.

Each of these insulation products will help you retard heat transfer in and out of your home. To learn more, contact Powers Heating & Air, providing trusted HVAC services for Peachtree City homeowners.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Peachtree City, Georgia and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 770-487-2040.