By Abby Berry
Ensuring your home is properly insulated can improve energy efficiency and make your home more comfortable. Insulation acts like a cozy coat that reduces heat loss during winter and a protective layer that reduces heat gain during summer.
Many older homes have less insulation than newer homes, but even newer homes can benefit from additional insulation. While it’s not the least expensive efficiency measure, adding insulation and air sealing your home can provide the biggest bang for your buck in energy savings and overall comfort.
The most common areas to insulate are attics, ceilings, crawlspaces or unconditioned basements, exterior and interior walls, floors, and ductwork located in unconditioned spaces.
The amount and effectiveness rating of insulation required for each area varies by climate, but places such as the DOE or home improvement stores provide recommendations on their website.
It’s important to understand how insulation effectiveness is measured. Insulation is rated in R-value, which measures the material’s resistance to conductive heat flow. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulation’s effectiveness. The R-value you’ll need depends on factors such as climate, type of heating and cooling system, and which area of the home you plan to insulate.
Visit the Insulation page to learn about recommended R-values for specific areas of the home, based on climate zones.
Insulation is offered in a wide range of materials from bulky fiberglass rolls to cellulose materials made from recycled paper products. If you’re considering installing additional insulation, talk to an expert who can offer guidance on the right materials for your budget, climate, and comfort needs.
Investing in proper insulation for your home enhances comfort and reduces energy consumption.