Home Insulation: 3 Different Materials Available to You

You may be wondering about which material you should use to insulate a home you have recently purchased. If that statement describes you, then read on and find some helpful information about three easily available insulating materials.

Fibreglass Batt

This insulating material is made from fibreglass and is bought in rolls. It is very popular because it is affordable and easy to install. All you have to do is to roll it out and cut it when you reach the end of the area you are insulating. For instance, if you are insulating your attic space then you can roll it over the roof joists then cut it when you reach one end of the attic. Avoid pressing the layers of this material tightly together because you may remove the air pockets within them and reduce the effectiveness of the insulation. Remember to wear adequate personal protective equipment like gloves, coveralls and a respirator so that you protect yourself from the particles that may detach from this material as you work.

Blown Cellulose

Recycled newspapers are treated using a fire retardant to produce this insulating material. It is bought in compressed bales, and those bales have to be broken down by an agitator as the material is fed into a machine that pumps it into the place that you want to insulate. This job requires at least two people; one to control the machine at the point where the insulation is fed into the machine and another person to direct the hose that is delivering the insulating material to the selected location (inside walls, for example). This material may make it hard to locate plumbing pipes later on, since it covers everything in the space where it is pumped. You must also ensure that the material is not exposed to water, or it will no longer be effective at insulating your home.

Rigid Boards

These are made from foam material, and their chief advantage is that they can be used as a building material as well as an insulating material. They are strong and waterproof. They are more expensive than the two insulating materials above, and they require a professional to install them. You should also adhere to the building codes of your area, since different municipal authorities may restrict which kinds of rigid insulating boards may be used in that area.

As you can see, each material has its own unique attributes that should be considered before one selects it for use. It may be advisable to engage the services of an insulation professional so that the best material for your location (and needs) is used.

Share