subject: Insulation solutions for your attic [print this page] Insulation solutions for your attic Insulation solutions for your attic
Insulation comprises of all the modes that aim at covering the extremities of a household. This reduces the heat gain and loss from and to' the outsides. Consequently, the dependency on various electrical devices is reduced. This in turn results in reduced utility bills. Moreover, the natural resources are also more efficiently used. Therefore, it helps in healing the environment as well.
One of the primary sources of heat exchange in a house is the attic. Attic insulation thus, forms an essential part of any and every home insulation project. Insulation in the attic can be installed both by employing blown in insulation and batt insulation.
Blown in insulation provides for the most economical Attic insulation. The material used, is present in the form of very fine particles. As a result, it can also insulate areas that are hard to reach. Though, blown in insulation is convenient to install, it needs special equipment for application. As a result, it can only be installed by professionals.
Attic insulation can also be done using the material in the form of batts or rolls. This is a common form of insulation in case of attics that have large room or crawl space. The insulating material can have a paper backing or a reflective surface.
In the latter case, the reflective material reflects the incident sunlight whereas the insulation absorbs whatever proportion is conducted. Batt insulation can also be used to cover odd-shaped areas since the material can be cut into any desired shape.
Rigid foam insulation is also a viable option for insulating the attic. The material used in foam insulation is very dense. It, therefore, provides for a good deal of insulation with comparatively lesser material. However, it is a little difficult to install in an attic, especially if the structure has not been designed to accommodate it.
The materials used in attic insulation are aplenty as well and differ depending on the mode of installation chosen. In case of Blown in insulation, generally cellulose, fiberglass or rock wool are the preferred alternatives.
Cellulose is most commonly used since it is made from recycled paper, is affordable as well as readily available. Batt insulation works well for rock wool and fiber glass. However, foam insulation employs certain synthetic materials like polystyrene.
The materials are chosen depending on the degree of insulation required. The higher R-value materials are apt for houses in a region that experiences extreme temperatures. However, regions with a comfortable temperature for most part of the year employ lower R-value products.
