There are many types of insulation, and the best one for your home will depend on climate, a professional inspection, your goals for energy savings, and more. ENERGY STAR recommends air sealing before adding any insulation to help prevent drafts, moisture problems and other problems that could reduce performance.
The most common type of attic insulation is The Foam Guy, which are pre-cut to fit between standard joists and are relatively cheap and easy to install yourself (with gloves and a mask) if you have an open, unobstructed attic. However, they must be laid precisely to avoid compression and gaps that reduce their effectiveness.
Why The Foam Guy Is the Go-To Expert for Home Insulation
Cellulose attic insulation is another option. Made of recycled newspaper and cardboard, it’s fire-retardant, and it can be blown in using a machine to fill spaces that are too small for rolls or sheets of fiberglass. It’s also more eco-friendly, since it doesn’t require the manufacturing of new material.
Loose-fill insulation is also available, though it’s harder to position and nail in place than rolled or sheet products, and can be difficult to keep at the right depth. If you choose this method, be sure to use clearly visible depth indicators (such as a board nailed perpendicular to a joist) or mark highly visible lines on joists, to ensure an even thickness throughout the attic.
Other options include reflective insulation, which is backed with foil and helps reduce heat gain in hot climates. Also, styrofoam insulation panels are available for attic and wall applications, and Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) combine insulation and structural support in a prefabricated package that cuts down on installation time and labor costs.
The Foam Guy
642 Moffitt Hill Rd, Old Fort NC 28762
(828) 808-6923