A Home Renovation Guide: Which Insulation Is Best for You?

From batting to boards to blown-in, it’s important to know which type is right for you before planning an insulation renovation. 

From batting to boards to blown-in, it’s important to know which type is right for you before planning an insulation renovation. 

When winter makes its appearance, and the weather gets chilly, some homeowners are finding themselves making multiple trips to thermostat. If you’re also finding that your home just doesn’t seem to get or stay warm, it might be time to update the insulation in your home. 

Before you start shopping around, familiarize yourself with the different kinds of insulation to determine which type is ideal for you.

 

 

Blanket Batts and Rolls

Typically made from fibreglass, this type of insulation is ideal for unfinished walls, floors, and ceilings. It’s also inexpensive and do-it-yourself friendly. These materials are designed to fit in between standard-size wall studs, floor joists, and attic rafters.

Pro Tip: Fibreglass isn’t great for skin and lungs, so always wear your protective gear when installing this type of insulation.

 

Reflective or Radiant Barrier

This type of insulation works best in unfinished walls, attics, and floors, and it’s ideal for homes in hot climates. Since this type of insulation works differently than most, it’s important to do a little research first. Most importantly, this insulation actually keeps heat out instead of keeping it in.

Pro Tip: If you plan on living in your home during the winter, this insulation probably isn’t for you.

 

Foam Board or Rigid Foam Panels

Foam board and panels are ideal for low-slope roofs, floors and basement or foundation walls. These panels are excellent at reducing the amount of heat that’s conducted through wall studs, subfloor, and more. However, they’re even more ideal for insulating foundation and basement walls. Comprised of polyurethane, polystyrene or polyisocyanurate, this type of insulation can be used on interior and exterior wall sheathing.

Pro Tip: Rigid foam panels and foam board insulation are the best on the market for lowering energy consumption.

 

 

Blown-in Insulation 

Insulation that’s blown-in through an insulation blower is ideal for adding additional insulation into already finished areas or hard-to-reach spaces. This type of insulation often consists of rock wool, recycled material (typically newspaper or cardboard) or fibreglass. It’s a great option for those that want the added benefits of increased insulation without planning an extensive renovation. 

Pro Tip: This type of insulation can be done on your own, but it’s best to hire a renovation contractor for the best results.

 

For a helpful video on blown-in insulation, check out our previous post: 5 House Renovation Ideas to Keep Your Home Warmer.

 

Are you looking for an expert general contractor to help install insulation? With more than 25 years in the industry, Rafter 4K is able to help with any home-improvement project, no matter the size. Contact us for a complimentary quote today!

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