One crucial aspect to consider when remodeling your home is its insulation. Proper insulation not only improves your home's energy efficiency but also reduces noise and helps regulate the temperature. A well-insulated home will stay cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, which will save on your HVAC costs.
If you're planning on remodeling your home, it's a good idea to understand the various insulation options available. They include each of the following:
Fiberglass Insulation
Fiberglass is a budget-friendly insulation option and easy to install. Fiberglass insulation is made of tiny fibers of spun glass and comes in loose fill, batts, and rolls. However, fiberglass can be itchy and may not be as effective at insulating as other options.
Cellulose Fiber Insulation
Cellulose fiber is loose-fill insulation that's blown into voids and hard-to-reach areas. Cellulose fiber insulation is made from recycled newspaper that's been treated with fire retardants to make it more fire safe. Cellulose is a more environmentally friendly option compared to fiberglass. However, cellulose will settle over time, which reduces its effectiveness.
Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam insulation is sprayed in liquid form and expands to fill the space. Spray foam insulation is highly effective at insulating and sealing gaps and cracks, making it an excellent option for attics and crawl spaces. However, spray foam insulation is a more expensive option and can be difficult to remove if it ever becomes necessary to do so.
Rigid Foam Board Insulation
Rigid foam board insulation is an excellent option for insulating walls, floors, and ceilings. Rigid foam board insulation is made from polystyrene or polyurethane and comes in sheets that can be easily cut to fit around pipes, outlets, and other obstacles. However, foam board insulation can be more challenging to install than other options. It also may not be as effective at insulating under certain conditions, such as excessive heat or cold.
Environmentally Friendly Insulation Options
Finally, there is the option of using a natural insulation material such as wool, cotton, or straw. Each of these choices is environmentally friendly and an effective residential insulation. The one downside to these newer insulation options is they are not as readily available or easy to install as some other options.
No matter what type of insulation you choose for your upcoming renovation, it's vital to ensure it is installed correctly. Improperly installed insulation will be less effective and can pose a hazard.
Contact a local home insulation service to learn more.
