Ceiling Insulation Types
Insulation is used to reduce thermal transfer through the walls and roof of a building. For homes with little or no ceiling insulation, adding insulating materials can have a big impact on energy consumption and comfort levels. Ceiling and roof areas are also one of the easiest areas in the home to insulate without performing major renovations and repairs. Homeowners can choose from a number of insulating materials depending on their needs.
Types
Some of the more commonly used ceiling insulation materials include blankets or batts, loose fill, rigid foam or spray foam. Fiberglass or cotton blankets are easiest and most affordable way to insulate, though they are also the least effective at reducing thermal transfer. Loose fill products made from shredded newspaper are slightly more costly, but are also more effective and versatile. Rigid or spray foam products are the most expensive, but offer the highest level of insulation effectiveness, even in tight spaces.
Benefits
According to the Bonneville Power Administration, as much as 45 percent of the heat produced by a home heating system is lost through the roof. By adding insulation homeowners can reduce heat loss and lower monthly heating bills. This reduced energy consumption can prolong the life of your HVAC equipment while minimizing your impact on the environment. A well-insulated home is also less drafty and more comfortable for occupants.
Uses
Most homeowners insulate their ceilings by added insulation to attic floors and ceilings. Fiberglass or foam insulation can be added between joists in attics that are easily accessible, or loose fill products can be sprayed into tighter spaces from below. The best way to insulate a cathedral ceiling is to fasten rigid foam panels between framing members, though furring strips can also be added to support more economical fiberglass batts. Some homeowners with flat roofs should also consider using spray foam to add insulation to existing ceiling structures.
Features
Ceiling insulation is often chosen based on its R-value, or thermal resistance rating. Materials with higher R-values are typically more effective insulators, while lower R-values are associated with lower thermal resistance levels. According to the U.S. DOE Energy Star program, have an R-value between 2 and 3 per inch, and rigid and spray foam can range from R-4 to R-8. Loose fill cellulose has an R-value of 3.6 to 3.8.
Considerations
When choosing ceiling insulation homeowners must consider the cost of each material in relation to their budget, as well as the cost of installation. Fiberglass is easy to work with and inexpensive, making it the most budget-friendly choice. The higher upfront costs of other types of insulation should be weighed against the potential savings in energy bills and equipment replacement over time. One should also consider space available, existing levels of insulation, and the average temperature range in the region when comparing these materials.
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