Insulation is one of the most important components of a comfortable, energy-efficient home or building. It helps regulate indoor temperature, reduce energy bills, and enhance indoor air quality. But not all insulation is created equal — and knowing the different types of insulation materials can help you make the best choice for your property.
At Koala Insulation of Las Vegas, we provide expert guidance and professional installation using a variety of high-performance insulation materials tailored to the unique climate of Southern Nevada. In this blog, we’ll break down the most common types of insulation materials, their benefits, and where they’re best used.
Why Insulation Material Matters
The type of insulation you choose affects your home’s:
- Thermal resistance (R-value)
- Soundproofing capabilities
- Moisture resistance
- Fire resistance
- Environmental impact
Choosing the right material ensures long-term performance, energy efficiency, and comfort — especially in the hot, dry climate of Las Vegas, where cooling demands are high for much of the year.
1. Fiberglass Insulation
Overview:
Fiberglass is one of the most commonly used insulation materials in both residential and commercial buildings. It’s made from fine glass fibers and is available in batts (pre-cut panels), rolls, or as loose-fill (blown-in).
Best Uses:
- Attics
- Walls
- Floors
- Ceilings
Benefits:
- Affordable and widely available
- Good thermal and acoustic performance
- Non-combustible and mold-resistant
- Available with recycled content
Considerations:
Fiberglass should be installed carefully to avoid compression and gaps, which can reduce effectiveness. Professional installation from Koala Insulation of Las Vegas ensures maximum performance.
2. Spray Foam Insulation
Overview:
Spray foam insulation is a high-performance material that expands upon application to seal gaps and cracks. It’s available in two forms: open-cell (lighter and softer) and closed-cell (denser and moisture-resistant).
Best Uses:
- Attics and rooflines
- Crawl spaces
- Wall cavities
- Around pipes and wiring
Benefits:
- Superior air sealing and R-value
- Reduces HVAC load and energy costs
- Acts as a vapor and moisture barrier
- Helps with soundproofing
Considerations:
Spray foam has a higher upfront cost but provides significant energy savings over time. It’s one of the best insulation solutions for desert climates like Las Vegas.
3. Blown-In Cellulose Insulation
Overview:
Cellulose insulation is made from recycled newspaper and treated with fire retardants. It’s applied as a loose-fill product that can fill irregular spaces and cavities.
Best Uses:
- Attics
- Existing wall cavities (retrofits)
- Hard-to-reach or uneven areas
Benefits:
- Eco-friendly with high recycled content
- Good thermal and sound insulation
- Fills gaps and voids effectively
- Affordable and fast to install
Considerations:
Cellulose can absorb moisture, so it should not be used in areas prone to leaks. Koala Insulation of Las Vegas ensures proper air sealing and ventilation to support its effectiveness.
4. Mineral Wool (Rock Wool) Insulation
Overview:
Mineral wool is made from volcanic rock or recycled slag and spun into fibrous batts or loose-fill material. It’s naturally fire-resistant and has excellent soundproofing qualities.
Best Uses:
- Walls and ceilings
- Multi-family dwellings
- Around HVAC ducts and mechanical rooms
Benefits:
- Non-combustible
- Water-resistant and mold-resistant
- High thermal and acoustic performance
- Sustainable and durable
Considerations:
Mineral wool is more expensive than fiberglass but offers enhanced performance, especially in fire-rated assemblies.
5. Rigid Foam Board Insulation
Overview:
Rigid foam boards (also called foam panels) are made from polystyrene, polyisocyanurate, or polyurethane. They’re used in both interior and exterior applications for continuous insulation.
Best Uses:
- Basement walls
- Roof decks
- Foundation insulation
- Wall sheathing (behind siding)
Benefits:
- High R-value per inch
- Moisture resistant
- Effective thermal break on exterior walls
- Easy to cut and install
Considerations:
Rigid foam needs to be covered with a thermal barrier (like drywall) for fire safety in occupied spaces.
6. Radiant Barrier
Overview:
Radiant barriers are reflective materials—usually made from aluminum foil—that reflect radiant heat instead of absorbing it. They’re especially effective in hot climates like Las Vegas.
Best Uses:
- Attics (stapled to rafters or laid over existing insulation)
- Roof decks
Benefits:
- Reduces attic temperatures by up to 30°F
- Enhances effectiveness of existing insulation
- Lightweight and easy to install
- No fiber particles or VOCs
Considerations:
Radiant barriers don’t provide traditional R-value insulation but are excellent as supplemental systems in sunny environments.
7. Cotton (Denim) Insulation
Overview:
This insulation is made from recycled cotton and denim fabrics. It’s an eco-friendly option that’s easy to handle and free of irritants.
Best Uses:
- Interior walls
- Ceilings
- Green building projects
Benefits:
- Sustainable and biodegradable
- Non-toxic and safe to install
- Good sound absorption
- Contains no fiberglass or formaldehyde
Considerations:
Cotton insulation can be more expensive and is less commonly available than fiberglass or cellulose.
Which Insulation Is Right for You?
Choosing the right insulation depends on several factors, including:
- Your climate zone (Las Vegas is in a hot-dry zone)
- The part of the home you’re insulating
- Energy efficiency goals
- Budget
- Environmental preferences
At Koala Insulation of Las Vegas, our team conducts thorough home evaluations to recommend the best material for your specific needs. We use only high-quality, code-compliant products and ensure your insulation is installed for maximum performance and energy savings.
Why Work with Koala Insulation of Las Vegas?
As Las Vegas’ trusted insulation experts, we provide:
- ✅ Free insulation evaluations
- ✅ Energy-efficient solutions for every home type
- ✅ Fast, clean, professional installation
- ✅ Eco-friendly and high-performance product options
- ✅ Local knowledge of building codes and climate needs
From fiberglass and spray foam to radiant barriers and more, we have the experience and resources to insulate your home for comfort and efficiency.
Call Us Today for a Free Estimate
Want to upgrade your home’s insulation and lower your energy bills? Let the experts at Koala Insulation of Las Vegas help you choose the right materials and deliver exceptional results.
📞 Call us today at (702) 329-3776
💻 Or visit https://koalainsulation.com/Las-Vegas to schedule your free estimate.
Invest in the right insulation now—and enjoy year-round comfort and savings for years to come.
