When it comes to insulating your house, one size does not fit all. Consider the local environment, your budget, your objectives, the installation location, and if you want to DIY or hire a professional before you begin.
These criteria will influence your choice of insulating material. Fibreglass, foam board, cellulose, and mineral wool are the four most prevalent forms of insulation.
1. Fiberglass Insulation
This type of insulation is the easiest to install and is usually the least expensive. It comes in either large rolls or pre-cut strips that are gently pressed into place, or it can be blown in. The rolled fibreglass batts are available in different thicknesses and densities to provide the desired R-value. This type of insulation works by trapping air between the fibreglass fibres.
Rolled Fiberglass is inexpensive, but for even better R-values, consider blown-in fibreglass insulation, which is commonly used in hard-to-reach places such as attics and crawl spaces. Fibreglass is made from melted sand and recycled glass, so it’s environmentally friendly. Batt insulation is held together with a binder, and most brands use a formaldehyde-free binder. Loose-fill fibreglass does not have a binder.
2. Foam Board Insulation
Foam board insulation is made from either polystyrene or polyurethane. It comes in large sheets that are cut and fit to the desired space, then glued or taped into place. Foam board is a good choice for insulating an entire house, as it can be used on the exterior walls, roof, and foundation. It’s also a good choice for insulating unfinished walls in a home renovation. Foam board insulation works by trapping air between the foam boards.
Polystyrene is made from petroleum products, so it’s not environmentally friendly. Polyurethane is made from renewable resources, such as soybean oil, and is considered eco-friendly. Neither type of foam board should be burned because they release harmful toxins into the air.
3. Cellulose Insulation
Cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper products, such as newspapers, and treated with fire retardants and insecticides. It’s available in large bags that are either blown in or sprayed in place. Cellulose insulation works by trapping air and slowing down the transfer of heat.
Cellulose insulation is considered eco-friendly because it’s made from recycled materials. It’s also one of the most effective types of insulation, with an R-value of 3.7 to 3.8 per inch. The downside of cellulose insulation is that it can settle over time, so it needs to be installed correctly to achieve the desired R-value.
4. Mineral Wool Insulation
Mineral wool insulation is made from rock or slag wool fibres. It comes in large rolls or pre-cut strips that are gently pressed into place, or it can be sprayed in place. Mineral wool insulation works by trapping air between the fibres.
Mineral wool insulation is considered eco-friendly because it’s made from natural materials that are recycled. It’s also non-combustible and has a high R-value of 4 to 4.5 per inch. The downside of mineral wool insulation is that it can be difficult to find in some areas, and it’s one of the more expensive types of insulation.
Conclusion
The person could decide on a type of insulation and start the process of installing it. There are many different types of insulation with different benefits, so the person will have to evaluate what is best for their needs. Some factors that will affect the decision are the R-value, cost, and whether or not the material is eco-friendly.
Foamworks is one of the leading spray foam companies in Toronto, specializing in the quality application of spray foam insulation. Spray foam is widely recognized as the first choice insulation option for home and commercial projects. Give us a call or shoot us a text at 416-855-3626 to learn how our services can help you!
