In this article, we’ll discuss the different kinds of insulation wall systems, their R-Values, and how to install them. We’ll also discuss the role of microclimates and how to choose the right materials. In this article, we’ll focus on the external wall insulation system, which involves expanded polystyrene, mineral wool, polyurethane foam, or phenolic foam. And of course, we’ll talk about installation.
R-Value
Choosing the right insulation for your walls is vitally important in preventing cold drafts. The R-Value of your insulation walls depends on how much air can be trapped inside. A higher R-value means better insulation. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if your home is built on a slab on grade, the R-Value of your walls will not be as high as that of a building built on a basement.
When installing a cavity-based insulation wall, the Uo-factor is based on the R-Value of the wall’s cavity. REScheck assumes that the cavity is fully insulated; however, you need to factor in the air space between the structural members. To do this, select the “other” wall type and enter the overall calculated U-factor. It is also necessary to know the R-Value of the exterior walls before selecting a type of insulated sheathing.
For walls, R-Value is a key indicator of energy efficiency and comfort. A wall may have an R-value of only R-14, but older homes with 2×4 walls might not have enough space to accommodate such a high-performance layer of insulation. Adding R-14 to an existing wall cavity will require extensive retrofitting. R-Values for floors range between R-30 and R-38. Closed-cell spray foam is recommended for floors. Fiberglass is an inferior option and will eventually absorb moisture, sag, and fall apart.
While choosing the right insulation for your walls is vital for energy efficiency, it is not as simple as picking the best R-Value. You should also consider sealing leaks and determining the amount of air that can be trapped inside the wall. The higher the R-Value of the insulation, the better! It will reduce thermal transfer in your home and increase your home’s energy efficiency. It also looks great and is easy to install.
Material
Fiberglass is one of the most common materials used in wall insulation. It is an excellent insulator, offering an R-value of 3.2 per inch. It is also environmentally friendly, being made from recycled waste materials. However, there are some disadvantages of fiberglass insulation, including its tendency to sag with time. To avoid this, you should take appropriate precautions when installing fiberglass insulation. It is also recommended that you reinstall fiberglass insulation periodically to maintain its effectiveness.
Another good choice for insulation is foam board, which creates a good thermal resistance and reduces heat conduction in different parts of the home. Cellulose insulation is also available in different forms, such as wet-applied cellulose, which is used in open wall cavities. Cellulose is made from recycled newspapers, and its small particles conform well to most spaces. Premium cellulose insulation, such as Nu-Wool, has the same thermal properties as dense-packed cellulose.
Adding insulation to walls is one way to reduce heating and cooling costs, and is an easy do-it-yourself project. Because it comes in rolls, it’s easy to carry and install. Just be sure to cut it to fit around electrical outlets, pipes, and other outlets. Remember, however, that stuffed insulation loses 50% of its effectiveness. For a two-by-four-framed wall, a typical R-value would be R-13.
Rigid fibreboard is another popular material for wall insulation. It is made of mineral wool or fiberglass and is a great choice for areas with high temperatures. The material can be purchased preinstalled on ductwork, or customized on site. Rigid fiberboard panels range from one to 2.5 inches. But be aware that there are disadvantages to rigid fiberboard. While it is cheaper, it can be less durable and have perforations in the vapour barrier.
Installation
Before installing the insulation, make sure you follow manufacturer instructions carefully and follow local building codes. In humid climates, faced insulation may not be allowed. To install a faced insulation, cut the insulation to the length of the cavity and place it with the facing side down on a scrap piece of plywood. Secure it with a metal straightedge or T-square. Then, use a utility knife to cut it to the required length.
When installing a new layer of insulation, make sure you remove any old drywall or interior wall coverings. If the walls still contain lead paint, hire a lead abatement contractor. If mold is present, contact a mold remediation company. It can be a safety risk to install a new layer of insulation, so be careful to protect your walls and property. Use a roll-off dumpster when necessary to protect the environment.
Installing a new layer of insulation can reduce utility bills by as much as 25%. It will also maintain a comfortable living temperature, reducing energy usage and utility bills. In order to meet minimum thermal resistance requirements, local building codes dictate the R-value of new insulation. Installation is a relatively simple process, but it must be done properly. To prevent injuries, wear protective clothing, eyewear, and a respirator. Remember that the R-value will vary depending on the type of insulation you install.
There are several steps involved in installing wall insulation. You must remove the permanently attached wallboard and drywall screws. Next, install the R-13 or higher roll insulation. Then, finish the project by painting and applying finish. If you choose to go with another option, you can install a foam insulation without removing the drywall. Blow-in cellulose and injection foam insulation can be installed without removing the drywall. Both materials are advantageous to the home owner.
Microclimates
The Department of Energy defines eight climate zones in the U.S., each subdivided into moist, dry, and marine zones. In general, a warmer state like Florida is a lower R-value than the southernmost zone, but there is flexibility within the U.S. climate zones due to microclimates. In a given region, a higher R-value is usually preferred over a lower one, since higher R-values may reduce energy costs.
Cost
Considering the costs of insulating your walls? The most difficult part of insulating a house is the wall itself, which has cladding on the inside and outside. Usually, the only way to insulate this part is by blowing space between the studs, and to do this you will have to drill holes in the walls. This type of project is not only time-consuming, but also expensive, as it requires more expertise and skill. A professional is best suited for this type of work.
Fiberglass batts are one of the most affordable insulation materials, and the easiest to install. Most of the time, these are installed between floor joists or in open wall cavities. Loose-fill fiberglass, on the other hand, costs $0.60 to $1.50 per square foot and is the most common method. Fiberglass retains some of its insulative properties even when wet, so it is cheaper than blown-in cellulose. Fiberglass batts work best in open areas like attic floors and walls.
Another type of insulation costs between $5.75 and $15 per square foot. This material is typically added to walls or ceilings, and is suitable for use in some parts of the home. While it is not waterproof, it does control sound. It can be installed at any point in a building, from the attic to the basement. The installation of this type of insulation is a good choice for homes with a high level of heat loss and low-volume rooms.
The base rate for an insulation installation includes materials, labor, and business overhead. The price of installation varies by geographic region and labor costs. The type of insulation used can also impact the cost. For example, cellulose costs more than fiberglass, and the latter is generally cheaper. Rigid boards are another low-cost option. These are made of polyisocyanurate, polystyrene, or extruded polystyrene. These materials are also known for their durability.