Guest Blogger: Ensuring your Home has the Right Insulation

Guest Blogger #975, Entry #2477, May 30, 2013

Although most people never give a thought to the insulation packed into the walls, the ceiling, and the floor in their home, this unseen substance has the ability to lower your utility bills and protect your interior from the elements. Unfortunately, you’re likely to suffer a very drafty winter, sky-high utility bills, or a leaky roof before you ever give your insulation a second thought. And when you do finally address the insulation-related issues plaguing your home, you probably won’t have the first clue as to what to put in your walls to replace the faulty or outdated product that is currently causing you homeowner heartache.

What type of insulation is right for your home?

Image via:  Wentworth, Inc.

So here are just a few common types of insulation that you might want to consider.

Fiberglass Insulation

Fiberglass insulation is probably the most common type found in homes today, mostly because it is inexpensive and easy to install. In most cases it comes in rolls of batting (they may be exposed in your ceiling beams if you want to crawl into your attic for a look), although there are also options for loose fill materials. Further adding to the appeal of this option is the fact that fiberglass is non-flammable. It is also resistant to moisture and mold, although not pests, which will gladly nest in it. On the downside, it can definitely irritate your skin and lungs if you come into contact with it, and it may cause ongoing problems if inhaled, potentially even including cancer. So you probably don’t want to install it on your own.

Spray Foam

Of course, there are plenty of other options to consider. One that has gained popularity over the last several years is spray foam, which is applied with a spray canister and left to set. Often it is sprayed onto exposed beams after older insulation has been removed, although it may also be applied to closed walls through a small opening, thanks to pressurized spray systems. The best thing about this type of insulation is that it gets into every nook and cranny, so unlike other options, it won’t leave gaps where air can get through. In addition, it can help to keep out unwanted pests like ants and rodents and it tends to be water-resistant. Unfortunately, not all foam insulation products are flame-retardant, so you’ll have to seek out specific manufacturers if you want this feature.

If you have open rafters – what type of insulation is for your home?

Image via: Trent Bell

Eco-friendly Insulation

However, you might be on the lookout for eco-friendly products if you want to cut your carbon footprint even as you insulate your home. While any added insulation allows you to reduce energy consumption, certain products are also better for the planet in terms of materials and manufacturing. Along these lines, the most common option is cellulose, which is made from recycled paper products. Unfortunately, loose cellulose may not be water- or flame-resistant unless it is chemically treated, which makes it less eco-friendly. The same goes for organic cotton insulation, another typically green product. But you might also consider adding structured insulated panels, some of which are made from recycled materials (although not all). Whether you’re simply looking to replace worn and damaged products or you’re upgrading your home insulation throughout in order to cut energy costs, there are many options that are easy to come by. You just have to decide how much you want to spend and which features are most important to you when you select a product.

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