The Ultimate Guide to Attic Insulation: What You Need to Know

When it comes to insulating your attic, there are many options to choose from. Spray foam is often considered the gold standard, as it offers a higher R-value than other materials and is resistant to moisture and mildew. However, there are other materials to consider, such as cellulose, mineral wool, and cotton. Each of these materials has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to do your research before making a decision.

Cellulose insulation is made from recycled paper and has an R-value of 3.2 to 3.7 per inch. It is considered an environmentally friendly option, but it can be a potential fire hazard. To reduce this risk, be sure to buy cellulose insulation from a manufacturer that adds ammonium sulfate or borate. Mineral wool is a fiber insulation made from natural materials and has an R-value of 3.1 to 4.0 per inch when blown and 3.1 to 3.4 per inch when installed in blocks.

It is naturally resistant to moisture and mildew, making it a great choice for those worried about mold growth in their home. Cotton insulation is made from recycled material and has an R-value of 3.0 to 4.0 per inch, making it a good option for those looking for an environmentally friendly option. However, it is less effective than fiberglass insulation. Fiberglass block insulation is the most common type of attic insulation and offers an R-value of 2.2 to 2.7 per inch when blown and 2.9 to 3.8 per inch when installed in blocks. Blown fiberglass insulation is a great choice for insulating your attic due to its extensive benefits, but it does have some downsides as well.

Blown cellulose insulation is another option with an R-value of 3.2 to 3.7 per inch when blown and 2.9 to 3.4 per inch when installed in blocks.

Spray foam

insulation is becoming increasingly popular due to its many benefits, such as being the only type of attic insulation that comes in liquid form and having an R-value of 6.0 to 6.5 per inch when blown and 5.5 to 6.0 per inch when installed in blocks. When installing attic insulation, you don't necessarily need to remove the old insulation first unless it is damp, made from hazardous materials (such as asbestos), or simply degrades too quickly to serve any other purpose. It's important to consider the pros and cons of each insulator before making a decision about what material is best for your attic. You can also combine different types of insulation for maximum efficiency, such as using a radiant sheet with a foam plate or an insulating blanket. An experienced DIYer can install most types of insulation, but some should consider hiring a professional due to the dangers associated with inadequate attic insulation installation. Loose-filled fiberglass attic insulation still experiences convection but not as much as the old fiberglass used to, while blanket-shaped insulation is one of the most common types of insulation for attic walls and floors but should not be used in open spaces due to fiberglass particles affecting air quality. The recommended R-value for your attic insulation depends on the specific characteristics of your home, the climate you are in, the amount of sunlight your home receives, and a few other factors.