A proper insulated, prefabricated home also means savings on energy bills in the long run. We will discuss the importance of insulation, different types, and their general characteristics. Most insulations have an R-Value per every inch of thickness. This measures how well a home’s insulation prevents the flow of heat in and out. Moreover, a higher R-Value means greater insulation performance. Above all, sufficient R-Value depends on location and climate.
Using a professional company is the best way to apply spray foam insulation. There are also DIY kits available for smaller jobs. Although spray foam insulation is effective, it is becoming the least attractive type. Spray foam insulation requires cutting out when there need to be electrical or plumbing repairs in the wall cavity. Furthermore, toxic gases from the insulation could have lingering effects on breathing and cause skin and eye irritation.
R-Value for open cell foam insulation: 3.7
R-Value for closed-cell foam insulation: 6.2
Batt insulation is a type of insulation blanket. These are pre-cut sections of insulation that are made of fiberglass. Additional materials include cellulose, mineral wool, natural fibers, and plastic versions. Similarly, rolled insulation is the same material but rolled out. Batt and rolled insulation are affordable options for insulating your home.
R-Value: Starts from 2.9 and can get as high as 4.3 with higher density insulation rolls.
Also known as blown-in insulation, loose-fill insulation sprays into place by special equipment and is made of fiberglass, cellulose, or mineral wool. R-Value: From 2.2 to 3.8
Foam Board insulation comes as high R-Value rigid panels. Firstly, they are light and easy to install with different sizes and thicknesses. Additionally, their rigidity and compressive strengths allow them to handle heavy loads. They are best used for insulating foundations, basements, and concrete walls. The major downside, however, is poor soundproofing and is highly flammable. R-Value: From 4 to 6.5
