There are lots of options when it comes to attic insulation types.  Choosing the right one can be the difference between a surprise vacation and shelling out extra from your wallet.  Make sure you know the differences in types of attic insulation by checking out the pros and cons of each below:

Typical Attic Insulation Types

The goal of adding insulation to your roof or walls is to trap heat from getting outside, and ultimately, decrease your utility costs.  Certain types of attic insulation have gained popularity with consumers because of R-value (effectiveness in trapping heat), eco-friendliness, and cost.  The typical insulation types you will likely see and hear about include bat, blow-in, and spray foam insulation.

Bat Insulation

Bats are one of the most popular forms of insulation, especially for construction projects with no prior insulation installed.  As fiberglass has remained the top-selling insulation bat because of its cost effectiveness and equivalent R-value performance to other materials, there are also several other bat materials on the marketplace:

• Mineral Wool – Mineral Wool can continue to insulate when wet and is a natural fire barrier, making it a great insulation material for commercial buildings. However, it does tend to be on the pricey side.
• Denim Insulation – Made completely of recycled blue jeans, denim insulation has become popular with environmentally-conscious consumers. Similar to mineral wool insulation, it is more expensive than other options like fiberglass.

Blown-in Insulation

Blow-in insulation is great for construction projects that already have insulation installed, but need the gaps or cracks filled inexpensively.  This type of insulation comes in loose-filled, chunks in large bags and are blown into any necessary spaces with a blowing machine.  Blown-in insulation is made of the same materials as bat insulation, so the same pros and cons, as well as safety hazards, are very similar.

Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam is commonly used for the exterior of commercial buildings for extra insulation and is one of the most expensive forms of insulation on the market.  However, spray foam will trap warm air and save money on your utilities bill better than most materials.

Spray foam creates an airtight seal that lasts, providing insulation for decades instead of 5-7 years like batt and blown-in insulation.  Foam is also totally immiscible in water and expands your building’s envelope, strengthening your building’s structure and creating a sound barricade from the outside.

Need insulation expertise?  We’re here to help.

As there are many types of insulation, there are a lot of ways to install it incorrectly or unsafely.  This is where Herbert Roofing & Installation can help!

As insulation experts in the Tri-County area for over 50 years, we pride ourselves in working with you on your roofing and insulation project.  Whether it’s working with you on a new construction project or removing old insulation, contact your local experts to schedule a consultation.  Visit our website to learn more about insulation and the best options for you.