Insulation is key when it comes to keeping your home comfortable and energy efficient. It helps to prevent heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer, reducing your energy bills and improving your home’s overall efficiency. However, with so many different types of insulation available, it can be tough to know which one to choose. Below we will explore some of the most common types of insulation you can use in your home to help make it much more energy efficient.
Fibreglass insulation
Fibreglass insulation is one of the most common types of insulation used in homes today. It consists of tiny glass fibres that are spun into a wool-like material and then packed into the walls or ceilings of a home. Fibreglass insulation is relatively affordable and easy to install, making it a popular choice for many homeowners.
One of the key advantages of fibreglass insulation is that it is non-flammable and does not absorb moisture. It is also a good insulator, with an R-value (a measure of insulation effectiveness) that typically ranges from 2.2 to 3.7 per inch. However, fibreglass insulation can be itchy and irritating when working with it, so it is important to wear protective clothing and a mask when you handle it.
Mineral wool insulation
Mineral wool insulation is made from rock or slag wool, a by-product of industrial processes. It is typically used in the walls or ceilings of a home and is a good choice for homeowners looking for an eco-friendly insulation option for their property.
One advantage of mineral wool insulation is that it is non-combustible and does not absorb moisture making it an excellent loft insulation for your home. It is also a good sound insulator and an effective thermal insulator, with an R-value that typically ranges from 3.0 to 3.3 per inch. However, mineral wool insulation can be more expensive than other types of insulation, and it can be heavy and difficult to install.
Spray foam insulation
Spray foam insulation is a newer type of insulation that has gained popularity in recent years. It is made by mixing two chemicals, which react and expand to create a foam that fills gaps and voids in a home’s walls or attic. Spray foam insulation is an excellent choice for homeowners looking for a high-performance insulation option.
One of the key advantages of spray foam insulation is that it has a very high R-value, typically ranging from 3.5 to 7 per inch, depending on the type of foam used. It is also a good air barrier, helping to prevent drafts and reducing energy loss.
Cellulose insulation
Cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper treated with fire-retardant chemicals. It is typically blown into the walls or attic of a home using a special machine. Cellulose insulation is suitable for homeowners looking for an eco-friendly insulation option, as you make it using recycled materials.
One advantage of cellulose insulation is that it is a good sound insulator and an effective thermal insulator. It also has a higher R-value than fibreglass insulation, typically ranging from 3.2 to 3.8 per inch. However, cellulose insulation can settle over time, reducing its effectiveness, and it can also absorb moisture if not installed correctly.
