Types of Insulation and the Benefits of Each

Attic insulation is critical for maintaining thermal efficiency in your Lake Placid, Florida, home. Without adequate attic insulation, you’re letting climate-controlled air escape and bringing your home’s internal air closer to the external air temperature. Should you decide to insulate your home to combat this problem, you have several options, each coming with its own pros and cons. They also entail different costs and installation techniques. Here are a few of the most popular types of insulation:

Fiberglass Batts

Loose-fill insulation comes in three main forms. Fiberglass batts, cellulose and mineral wool are available for most homes.

Fiberglass batts are among the most popular options for insulation because of their low price and easy installation. In terms of actual efficiency, they might not be the best choice. However, there are a few benefits of this material that are hard to match.

For one, fiberglass batts do not shrink; shrinking is a problem that can make many types of insulation less efficient over time as they begin to let air in. If you’re worried about inhaling fibers, you should know that most manufacturers supply fiberglass batts in sealed plastic wrap.

Finally, batts are actually made from recycled glass in modern facilities. Thus, they can be an environmentally friendly option.

Mineral Wool

Though it’s similar to fiberglass in consistency, mineral wool is made from natural materials. With two main types to choose from, mineral wool is popular with many homeowners. One of the versions consists of fibers made from stone, such as basalt. Another type consists of iron ore waste fibers. It’s sold as loose fill, and from this perspective, it’s similar to the fiberglass batts.

Among the main advantages of mineral wool is the fact that it delivers superior sound and thermal insulation. At the same time, the material will not burn until it reaches temperatures as high as 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit. Among the obvious downsides, you need the right protective gear when installing mineral wool. Only trained service technicians should deal with this material.

Cellulose

Cellulose is made from recycled paper. Although it comes in a few varieties, cellulose isn’t as widely used as mineral wool. It has certain advantages, such as being an eco-friendly option that makes full use of excess paper. It’s also cheaper than fiberglass. Furthermore, there are reduced health risks associated with cellulose, especially when compared to fiberglass.

However, there are some downsides to consider. For example, dry cellulose absorbs moisture. The installation process is also complex, as cellulose produces significant amounts of dust. Make sure to choose an experienced service technician for installation.

Spray Foam

There are a few different types of spray foam. Icynene foam can expand to up to 100 times its initial size. This is why professionals often pour it through wall cavities. Polyurethane foam is another popular choice that a professional can apply with carbon dioxide gas. Air Krete insulation can be a good option if you have certain allergies to chemicals. Made from magnesium dioxide, Air Krete doesn’t sink over time.

Rigid Foam Boards

One of the simplest types of insulation in terms of installation is rigid foam boards. With as much as two times the thermal resistance when compared to other insulation materials of the same thickness, rigid foam boards are a great choice for attics.

Typically, you’ll find boards made of polyurethane or polystyrene. Although these are easier to install than other types of insulation, a professional should still install them. When your goal is to thoroughly seal your home from the elements, a specialist can offer the precision and tools to ensure the installation holds up for years to come.

There are many other types and variations of insulation materials. Miller’s Central Air, Inc. can customize your insulation to your home, HVAC system and budget. We offer other services for all your home comfort needs. Call us today at 863-699-5455.

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