Best R Factor For Attic Insulation

Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product.

Best r factor for attic insulation.

R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it. R stands for resistance to heat flow. The ideal attic insulation r value is different than the ideal wall insulation r. In general an attic s r value should be between r 30 and r 49.

For example if you have a type of insulation that has an r value of r 5 per inch of thickness you will need a depth of 6 inches of this insulation installed in your attic to reach r 30 if you live in zones 2 or 3. Insulation is identified and labeled by r value. The structural elements are usually exposed in these areas which makes it. Expanded polystyrene eps or beadboard serves as the best insulating rigid foam for homeowners on a budget.

Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation. Inspecting and evaluating your insulation. For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices. Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material.

In particularly cold climates you might go up to. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. Recommended home insulation r values. However as the installed thickness increases for loose fill insulation the settled density of the product increases due to compression of the insulation under its own weight.

The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and. Thickness must not be used as the sole factor in determining the r value of loose fill insulation particularly for attic insulation. Insulation level are specified by r value. The higher the insulation r value the greater the insulating power.

Note from this chart that the ideal r value differs for each part of your home. In general increased insulation thickness will proportionally increase the r value. You ll see insulation r values indicated on product packaging and often on the product itself. These r values are a sum meaning this should be the total r value once you add up the entire depth of insulation.

This material costs less than other rigid foam boards but still offers an r value of. In comparison an inch of blown fiberglass insulation has an r value of 3 1 3 4 and an inch of blown cellulose in an attic has an r value of 3 2 3 7 along with knowing the r value of a particular insulation it is also important to calculate the r value of a total system. Your home s r value score will guide you toward the type of insulation you need. Warmer climates only require an r 38 or higher or about 12 or more.