Best R Factor For Attic Insulation

You ll see insulation r values indicated on product packaging and often on the product itself.

Best r factor for attic insulation.

For example if you have a type of insulation that has an r value of r 5 per inch of thickness you will need a depth of 6 inches of this insulation installed in your attic to reach r 30 if you live in zones 2 or 3. Note from this chart that the ideal r value differs for each part of your home. This material costs less than other rigid foam boards but still offers an r value of. In particularly cold climates you might go up to.

The ideal attic insulation r value is different than the ideal wall insulation r. In general increased insulation thickness will proportionally increase the r value. Inspecting and evaluating your insulation. Warmer climates only require an r 38 or higher or about 12 or more.

Expanded polystyrene eps or beadboard serves as the best insulating rigid foam for homeowners on a budget. Recommended home insulation r values. However as the installed thickness increases for loose fill insulation the settled density of the product increases due to compression of the insulation under its own weight. The higher the insulation r value the greater the insulating power.

The structural elements are usually exposed in these areas which makes it. In comparison an inch of blown fiberglass insulation has an r value of 3 1 3 4 and an inch of blown cellulose in an attic has an r value of 3 2 3 7 along with knowing the r value of a particular insulation it is also important to calculate the r value of a total system. For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices. Thickness must not be used as the sole factor in determining the r value of loose fill insulation particularly for attic insulation.

Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product. R stands for resistance to heat flow. Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material.

The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and. Houses in a cold climate should have a minimum of r 49 in the attic which is equivalent to approximately 16 of fiberglass insulation. Your home s r value score will guide you toward the type of insulation you need.

Installing more insulation in your home increases the r value and the resistance to heat flow. Insulation is identified and labeled by r value. Insulation level are specified by r value. In general an attic s r value should be between r 30 and r 49.