Types of Materials Used for Insulation Installation

Choosing the right insulation for your home is one of the most important decisions you can make to improve energy efficiency, indoor comfort, and long-term savings. With a variety of insulation materials available, each with its own benefits and best-use scenarios, understanding your options is the first step toward making a smart investment.

At Koala Insulation of Madison, we specialize in helping homeowners find the ideal insulation materials for their specific needs. Whether you’re building a new home, remodeling, or upgrading an older property, our team is here to guide you through the options and provide expert installation for maximum performance.

In this blog, we’ll explore the most commonly used insulation materials, their advantages, and where they work best.

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1. Fiberglass Insulation

Overview:

Fiberglass is one of the most widely used insulation materials in the U.S. It is made from fine strands of glass and typically comes in batts, rolls, or loose-fill form.

Best For:

• Attics
• Walls
• Floors
• Crawl spaces

Pros:

• Affordable and widely available
• Good thermal performance (R-2.9 to R-3.8 per inch)
• Fire-resistant
• Easy to install in open cavities

Cons:

• Can irritate skin and lungs during installation
• Less effective at air sealing compared to spray foam
• Loses effectiveness if compressed or exposed to moisture

At Koala Insulation of Madison, we use high-quality fiberglass products and ensure they are properly installed to deliver reliable, long-lasting insulation.

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2. Spray Foam Insulation

Overview:

Spray foam insulation is applied as a liquid that expands into a dense foam, filling gaps and cracks for an airtight seal. It comes in two types: open-cell and closed-cell.

Best For:

• Attics
• Walls
• Rim joists
• Crawl spaces
• Hard-to-reach areas

Pros:

• High R-value per inch (R-3.5 to R-7)
• Excellent air sealing and moisture barrier
• Adds structural strength to walls and roofs
• Reduces drafts and outdoor noise

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost
• Requires professional installation

Koala Insulation of Madison specializes in spray foam insulation, using state-of-the-art equipment and trained technicians to deliver maximum energy savings.

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3. Cellulose Insulation

Overview:

Cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper products, typically treated with fire-retardant chemicals. It’s available as loose-fill or dense-pack.

Best For:

• Attics (blown-in)
• Wall cavities (dense-pack)
• Retrofit projects

Pros:

• Eco-friendly and made from recycled materials
• Good R-value (R-3.2 to R-3.8 per inch)
• Fills gaps and irregular cavities well
• Cost-effective for retrofits

Cons:

• Can settle over time, reducing effectiveness
• May retain moisture if not properly protected

We recommend cellulose insulation for customers looking for a green solution with strong thermal performance, especially in older homes where wall cavities need extra attention.

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4. Mineral Wool (Rock Wool) Insulation

Overview:

Mineral wool is made from natural stone or industrial slag. It comes in batts and loose-fill and is known for its fire resistance and soundproofing qualities.

Best For:

• Walls
• Ceilings
• Basements
• Fire-rated assemblies

Pros:

• Fire-resistant (can withstand temperatures over 1,800°F)
• Excellent soundproofing
• Water-resistant and does not promote mold growth
• Higher R-value than fiberglass (R-3.7 to R-4.2 per inch)

Cons:

• Slightly more expensive than fiberglass
• Heavier and denser, making installation more labor-intensive

Koala Insulation of Madison often recommends mineral wool for areas where fire safety and sound control are top priorities.

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5. Rigid Foam Board Insulation

Overview:

Rigid foam boards are panels made from materials like polystyrene, polyisocyanurate, or polyurethane. They offer a high insulating value with minimal thickness.

Best For:

• Basement walls
• Crawl spaces
• Exterior sheathing
• Garage doors

Pros:

• High R-value (R-4 to R-6.5 per inch)
• Thin profile ideal for tight spaces
• Moisture-resistant
• Can act as a vapor barrier

Cons:

• Can be more expensive than batt insulation
• Needs to be carefully sealed around edges to prevent air leakage

Rigid foam is a favorite for foundation walls and exterior applications, providing long-lasting thermal resistance with added structural integrity.

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6. Reflective or Radiant Barrier Insulation

Overview:

Radiant barrier insulation reflects radiant heat, rather than absorbing it. It’s typically made from aluminum foil laminated onto paper or plastic sheeting.

Best For:

• Attics (especially in hot climates)
• Roof decks

Pros:

• Reduces radiant heat gain in sunny climates
• Works well when paired with other insulation
• Lightweight and easy to install

Cons:

• Ineffective in colder climates
• Needs an air gap to function correctly

While not widely used in Wisconsin, Koala Insulation of Madison may recommend radiant barriers as part of a comprehensive attic insulation strategy, particularly for sun-exposed homes.

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Choosing the Right Insulation Material

No single insulation type is perfect for every home or situation. The best choice depends on factors like:

• Your home’s age and construction
• Local climate
• Moisture levels
• Budget
• Whether the space is finished or unfinished

At Koala Insulation of Madison, we evaluate your specific needs and recommend the most effective insulation materials for each area of your home.

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Professional Installation Matters

Even the best insulation material won’t perform well if it’s poorly installed. Gaps, compression, and improper placement can lead to air leakage, moisture issues, and lost efficiency.

When you work with Koala Insulation of Madison, you get:

• A detailed home evaluation
• Tailored insulation recommendations
• High-quality materials
• Expert installation with a focus on precision and performance

We take pride in doing the job right the first time so you can enjoy comfort, lower utility bills, and peace of mind.

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Call Us or Visit Our Website for a Free Estimate

Ready to upgrade your home’s insulation? Whether you’re interested in spray foam, fiberglass, cellulose, or foam board, Koala Insulation of Madison is your trusted partner.

Call (608) 453-1644 or visit https://koalainsulation.com/madison to schedule your free insulation estimate today. We’ll help you choose the right materials for long-term comfort, efficiency, and value.