The key to an energy-efficient home is limiting the transfer of heat between a home’s interior and the world outside. Although most people tend to think of insulation in a category by itself, it’s actually part of an invisible protective layer known to insulation contractors as a “thermal envelope.”
The goal with any home’s thermal envelope is to limit heat conduction and convection as much as possible, reducing heat transfer and maintaining a comfortable balance. When this system is working at its top level of performance, a home’s HVAC system won’t have to work as hard to keep up, saving the homeowners money.
In this post from J&J Roofing, Macomb County’s most trusted insulation contractors, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about the three main types of home insulation. Give us a call to schedule your home insulation upgrades and start saving on your monthly energy costs.
Sealing a Home
Ideally, a home’s insulation should be placed anywhere that air could potentially infiltrate a home from outside or escape to reduce heat transfer through convection. An insulation contractor’s goal is to seal as many air leaks as possible and reduce a home’s energy usage in the process.
These are just a few examples of places insulation is commonly found in a home:
- Crawl spaces
- Basement
- Attic
- Between studs in walls
- Floorboards
- Around pipes
With the right amount of insulation, homeowners can save as much as 15% or more on their monthly heating and cooling expenses. This can add up to hundreds in savings each year depending on your average energy costs.
Types of Insulation
Insulation contractors can assess your home’s needs and determine which types of insulation are best for your home based on placement and R-value or heat flow resistance.
There are three main types of insulation available for most homes:
- Fiberglass blankets or rolls
The most common type of insulation is manufactured using fiberglass and other materials. This type of insulation is typically found in attics and recognizable by its typically pink appearance.
For gaps and leaks in walls, spray foam insulation is the best option. This type of insulation is sprayed into walls and then expands and hardens. Spray foam insulation is available in open-cell or closed-cell applications.
Cellulose insulation is typically manufactured from recycled materials like newsprint and is blown into walls and enclosed spaces.
Call Our Wacomb County Insulation Contractors
Are you tired of paying too much on your heating and cooling bills? Get an online consultation with our insulation contractors by contacting us on the web or call to schedule your appointment at 586-445-6455.