Insulation is a vital component of ensuring homes and buildings are comfortable and energy-efficient. However, misconceptions about insulation can lead to improper decisions about its installation and maintenance.
Addressing these myths can help homeowners and building owners make the best choices to maximize energy efficiency. Read on to learn about some of the most common insulation myths and misconceptions.
Myth #1: All Insulation is the Same
Insulation is an important component of any home and is a critical factor in helping homes meet energy codes, minimize heat loss or gain, and create an optimal indoor environment. However, the myth that all insulation is created equal is a false one. Different types of insulation offer different performance, cost, R-value, and other factors that should be taken into consideration.
Some insulation materials, like cellulose or spray foam, tend to have lower R-values than fiberglass batts, but this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It’s worth noting that the R-value ratings for most insulation are based on lab analysis, which removes air movement from the testing process. This makes a difference with fluffy insulation materials such as cellulose or fiberglass that tend to lose R-value due to gaps and voids in the installation. The R-value for these products is actually a fraction of the rated value.
Another false assumption is that all types of insulation result in deforestation. While some insulation products such as cellulose do use wood material, most, including JM’s AttiCat insulation, are made of recycled paper and divert over a million tons of waste from landfills each year. Additionally, unlike cellulose insulation, spray foam offers superior R-values and a variety of other benefits over time, including protecting against rodents and settling. For these reasons, it’s important to consult a knowledgeable insulation services professional when choosing the best type of insulation for your home.
Myth #2: Insulation Doesn’t Need Maintenance
Insulation is essential to keeping a home comfortable and energy-efficient. When installed correctly and maintained regularly, insulation can save homeowners thousands of dollars in heating and cooling costs over the life of a house. However, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions surrounding insulation that can lead to incorrect decisions and costly mistakes. We at JM want to help debunk these myths so that you can make the best choices when it comes to your home’s insulation.
The Myth: Fiberglass is prone to mold and mildew
While fiberglass is one of the most common types of insulation used in new construction, it does have some problems. It can be very itchy and a lung irritant, and it is not water resistant. Additionally, it can allow moisture to seep through walls and wood framing, which can cause mold and wood rot. This moisture can also deteriorate the insulation and lead to leaks and poor air sealing.
These issues can be avoided by having blown cellulose or spray foam insulation installed in older homes, as well as in new construction. These types of insulation are not only more durable, but they can be installed at the same time as other building materials. In addition, blown cellulose and spray foam are both water-resistant, which prevents them from molding or mildewing.
Myth #3: Insulation Is Only Necessary in Cold Climates
Insulation is one of the best investments you can make in your home. Not only will it keep you warmer and drier during the winter, but it also helps lower your energy costs all year round. However, many homeowners are hesitant to add insulation to their home because of the myths that surround it.
Thankfully, these myths are easily dispelled and can help homeowners to understand the benefits of insulating their homes. In fact, most of the time insulation is needed regardless of the climate.
For example, a house in a moderate climate will likely need insulation to save money on heating and cooling costs throughout the year. However, if a house is in a cold climate, then it will likely need more insulation to prevent heat from escaping during the winter and making the living space too hot.
The R-value of an insulating material is used to rate its resistance to heat transfer. A higher R-value means more resistance to heat transfer. However, if the R-value of an insulation product is compromised by moisture (as vapor or condensation) or air movement through it (as from venting), then it will lose its effective R-value and stop working as effectively.
The best way to prevent these issues is to properly install and maintain your insulation. Regular inspections and maintenance will ensure that your insulation is performing at its best all the time.
Myth #4: Insulation Is Only Necessary in Warm Climates
Insulation is vital to a comfortable home or building all year round. It maintains heat in winter and keeps out unwanted hot air during summer. However, many myths surround insulation that mislead homeowners and contractors into making the wrong decisions. Understanding the truth behind these myths can help prevent costly mistakes and ensure you get the most out of your home or building’s insulation investment.
While new home builds are usually insulated with energy efficiency in mind, older homes need insulation just as much. In fact, it’s even more important to add insulation to older homes, especially if the home has been undergoing repairs or renovations. Organic-based insulation such as cellulose can be ruined by rodents and settle over time, reducing its effectiveness. Fiberglass insulation, on the other hand, doesn’t degrade and retains its R-value over time, and is a more environmentally friendly option.
Upgrading your home’s existing insulation can also save you money on energy costs and increase your resale value. While it may take a while to recoup your initial costs through energy savings, a high building energy rating will appeal to prospective buyers and give you an advantage over less-efficient homes on the market. If you’re thinking about insulating your home, consult with an expert. They’ll be able to provide you with the best options for your specific climate zone and home, including blown cellulose and spray foam insulation.