What Type of Insulation Is Best for Your Home?

One of the questions that we get often is “What type of insulation is best for my home?” The answer to that question is more complex than just the insulation type. We first must answer a few questions before we get to the insulation type, because the best type of insulation for your home depends on several factors, including:

The Age of Your Home

 Many older homes have less insulation than homes built in present day. Unless you have experienced damage, insulation tends to last 15 to 20 years before upgrading.  To determine whether you should remove and replace insulation or add insulation to your existing insulation, you first need to find out how much insulation you already have, by determining the inches and the R-value, especially if you are looking to insulate your attic.

The Style of Home You Have

Most homes have a main attic while others may have knee walls, low ceiling attics or even cathedral ceilings. Each of these needs careful consideration of how to insulate and what type of insulation is suitable to prevent moisture issues or ventilation problems. Also, consideration must be given to attic flat vs attic floor or if it’s a walk-up attic or pull-down hatch.

 Your Overall Budget

 Budgeting for insulation requires planning and an understanding of local insulation codes and laws. Our experienced estimator is trained to guide customers through the process of finding the best insulation and ventilation solution for their home.  Koala Insulation also supports our customers by offering financing options for those that need it. The state of CT also has a Energize CT Rebate program to assist those looking to upgrade their insulation. In addition, the federal government also has an energy rebate program through the Inflation Reduction Act that provides additional savings to taxpayers. Schedule your free insulation evaluation to learn more about each program and how to save.

Now that we have reviewed the common factors impacting the type of insulation for your home, here are some of the most common types of insulation and a few pros and cons:

Fiberglass

Fiberglass is one of the most common types of insulation. It is made from glass fibers that are spun into batts or rolls. Fiberglass is relatively inexpensive and easy to install, and it is available in a variety of thicknesses. Fiberglass is commonly used in walls and ceilings. However, some people find fiberglass to be itchy and uncomfortable.

Spray Foam

Spray Foam (SFP) is a type of insulation that is applied as a liquid and then expands to fill the space it is in. Spray foam is a very effective insulator, and it can also help to seal air leaks. However, spray foam is more expensive than other types of insulation, and it can be difficult to install.

Cellulose

Cellulose is another common type of insulation. It is made from recycled paper products, such as newspapers and cardboard. Cellulose is a good insulator, and it is also relatively inexpensive and easy to install. However, cellulose can settle over time, so it may need to be replaced more often than other types of insulation.

The best way to choose the right type of insulation for your home is to consult with one of our insulation estimators. We will help you assess your needs and choose the right type of insulation for your home. Give us a call to schedule your free insulation evaluation or fill out the web form on our site.