When choosing insulation you will find 4 different kinds. Your choice depends on the area to be insulated, amount needed and cost. I will cover these points so you will know what type to use.
Loose fill insulation is blown into the area that you want to insulate, improving air quality, reducing leakage. It costs more, but it fills the area better, which improves quality. Loose fill can be found in insulated attic and walls.
Cellulose and fiberglass are two types of loose fill. Cellulose can be dry packed or moist sprayed in the area. Fiberglass and rock wool is blown into walls to make a blanket effect. The R factor is R3 or 4 per square inch, cellulose having 30% more. This is often found in Insulated attics.
When choosing insulation the next one to consider is batt and blanket. It is either processed fiberglass or rock wool. This insulation is the cheapest to install. To ensure effectiveness proper insulation is crucial. It can come in 4-8 ft sections, or rolls. It’s found in insulated attics floors and walls. Its best used between studs 16-24′ apart. The R factor is R3 per square inch.
The third type to consider when choosing insulation is foam board insulation. It is made from fiberglass, polystyrene or polyurethane. It comes in various thicknesses and is used for flat roof reproofing, basement walls cathedral ceilings and perimeter insulation. Its factor is R4-R8.
The last is spray foam; this is liquid insulation that is made from polyurethane or urethane and a foaming agent. The liquid is sprayed into areas, expanding as it drives to cover the entire section. It’s often found in insulated attics and finished walls. It’s especially handy in odd shaped and small enclosed places. It’s more expensive, but you’re not required to caulk, or house wrap after insulation.
When choosing insulation you can be sure that all 4 types are environmental friendly. Fiberglass and slag wool both are made from recycled material, foam boards biodegrades in moisture. The spray on foam does not contain any harmful chemicals.
There are four types to consider when choosing insulation, Batt and blanket, foam board, spray foam and loose fill. Cellulose and the foam board are not flame resistant, the others are. Loose fill and spray foam can be blown into the finished product, the others can’t. All are found in attic insulation and walls.
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