Choosing home insulation can be a challenge since it’s so important to select the right type. Even an energy-efficient furnace will have to work much harder if your home lacks good insulation. How do you know which is best for your home? What criteria needs to be met? Let’s look carefully at the main types of home insulation.Cellulose insulation is made of old cut-up newspaper. One problem with cellulose insulation is that it settles over time, allowing heat to escape through the empty spaces. It is also a heavy insulation that in some areas becomes a problem for drywall to hold up. Cellulose also tends to hold moisture better than other types, which reduces its effectiveness. However, in general, cellulose insulation does a good job of blocking the transfer of heat, either out of the house in the winter or into the house in the summer.
Another type to consider when choosing home insulation is rock wool, also known as slag wool or mineral wool. This loose-fill insulation is blown into the area and consists of various molten rock or metal impurities. It has been used around the world for centuries to insulate against the cold. Additionally, it offers excellent sound-muffling qualities.
One of the best insulation types is fiberglass. Made of spun glass, fiberglass does not shrink or lose its R-value, a measure of thermal resistance. The better the R-value, the less heat that will move through your insulation. Fiberglass can be used in hard-to-reach places, as it is either blown in or poured, before expanding to fit all crevices. This makes a better airtight seal than cellulose. You can install fiberglass insulation yourself. However, it’s best to have professionals install this (and most types) insulation because they have the knowledge and equipment to avoid costly mistakes. By focusing on choosing home insulation and then letting the experts insulate your home, you can go a long way toward keeping your home at its best energy efficiency.
For more expert advice when choosing insulation for your greater Kansas City area home, please contact us at Overland Park Heating & Cooling.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Overland Park, Kansas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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