Insulation can be an intimidating material. You’re not sure how it works. You’re unsure which type is best for your home. A few deciding factors will help you choose which insulation best serves your home. Keep reading to educate yourself, and you’ll have a comfortable house all year.
The Flammability of the Insulation
Are you under the impression that any insulation is good insulation? Unfortunately, some insulation materials are more flammable than others. The last thing a homeowner needs to worry about is how quickly their home will go up in smoke. It’s a danger lurking in your walls.
Cellulose spray foam is the most fireproof insulation. It can withstand temperatures up to 400 degrees. Fiberglass insulation is naturally fire-resistant and another fantastic option. Mineral wool insulation has a high melting point, making it a premier fireproof insulation option.
R-Value
R-value is the key to understanding how effective your insulation choice is. It measures the insulation’s resistance to heat flow through a specific material. The higher the R-value, the more energy-efficient the insulation and the more savings you can expect.
Choose an affordable insulation material with a higher R-value. This combination will provide you with positive results. Adding a second glaze to your windows is another layer of keeping your home comfortable all year.
Health Risks and Allergens
Most of the popular insulation materials today have been around for decades. These materials include:
- Cellulose
- Fiberglass
- Rock wool
While it’s true that they’ll keep your home comfortable, they may pose significant health risks and become allergens for your family. Spray foam is one the best insulation materials that won’t become an allergen. It removes the risk of irritants so your family can breathe quality air. It hardens, keeping the allergens trapped within the insulation. You don’t have to worry about releasing any harsh or damaging chemicals.
Soundproofing
Are the sounds of outside sneaking into your home? Do you hear your children playing in the basement? There are insulation types that are better at soundproofing your home than others. Spray foam will help block out those annoying noises. This block can also increase home value, especially if you live near a noisy interstate or railroad tracks.
Discuss these factors with a local insulation installer when you’re ready to choose the type of insulation. Specific areas, such as the northern regions, require different insulations than the southern regions. These factors will help you make the best decision.
