3 Insulation Myths, Defluffed
Whether you are building your dream home or updating an existing house, focusing on insulation is imperative for the home's structure, value, efficient, and family's comfort. From spray foam to traditional batting, the different options in insulation can be overwhelming. However, proper understanding is imperative for ensuring your home and family is protected. With this guide, you will learn the truth behind a few common myths associated with home insulation.
Offers Protection From Cold Only
One of the most common misconceptions regarding insulation is that it is only needed for the colder seasons. Of course, this is a myth that needs to be addressed.
An estimated 25 percent of heat loss occurs through your attic alone. This heat loss will decrease your ability to heat your home during the winter, resulting in a home that is constantly cold.
However, heat loss through the attic, and other areas of the home, can also be wasteful when cooling your home during the summer season. As the heat escapes through your roof while heating, the heat will enter your roof during the summer, decreasing the efficiency of your air conditioner system.
Ensuring your roof and attic are properly insulated will reduce waste and maintain efficient heating and cooling costs.
The More, The Better
You may think the more insulation, the better, but that is not actually the case. Adding more insulation to your walls and attic may deter air loss through these areas.
Unfortunately, air loss can occur through other areas of your home, too. Investing in more insulation may be helpful, but it will not completely stop air loss if other issues are not addressed.
To reduce air loss and energy waste, insulation is essential, but make sure to check these other areas, as well:
- Cracks and crevices – Cracks and crevices around door and window frames, your attic, and your crawlspace, foundation, and basement should be sealed with caulk to reduce air loss.
- Windows and Doors - Windows should have low-e film and be filled with argon gas for the most effective energy conservation and reduction of air loss.
Only R-Value Matters
Another common myth homeowners believe about insulation is that the R-value is the only thing that matters. Again, this is not true, since there are many factors that come into play when choosing insulation.
The R-value represents the insulation's resistance to heat flow, but it does not guarantee any reduction in the way air flows. Your insulation may have a high R-value, but it will not be the most efficient option if you have air flow issues in other areas of your home.
A cellulose spray foam insulation with a high R-value is your best efficient option, since it is capable of resisting heat flow while preventing air loss through all areas, cracks, and crevices of your home.