What You Need to Know About Insulation

Proper insulation in the attic of your home can not only help regulate the temperature inside your house, but it can also save you a lot of money on your monthly utility bills.  Insulation helps to keep your home warm in cool seasons, and cool in warm seasons.  With rising prices of both electric power and natural gas, attic insulation is vital for helping with energy bills, as well as keeping you and your family comfortable all year long.  According to the Department of Energy, proper installation of attic insulation can save homeowners approximately 10-50% on their energy bill.  Proper attic insulation is basically a win-win for any home and homeowner.

There are two basic types of insulation: loose fill insulation and blanket insulation (also known as Batt insulation).  Either type of insulation can be used in your home’s attic, but they each have their own nuances that you may wish to consider.  Either one can be added to an empty, previously uninsulated attic, or they can be added to an attic that already has some insulation present.

Loose fill insulation is packaged in large bags and consists of loose fibers that can be easily spread in the desired location.  Loose insulation is great for attics that have a lot of obstructions that need to be maneuvered around, or for attics that have unusual joint areas.  Loose insulation is also preferable if there are small air pockets or gaps that need to be filled in and covered.  It is also desirable when working in attics that have a low-clearance, because the loose fibers can simply be blown around the attic, without having to crawl in to tight spaces.
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Blanket insulation is packaged in rolls, and can be cut to fit any desired length.  It is offered in a variety of thicknesses, and has width options between 16-24 inches.  Blanket insulation can also have a vapor barrier attached to it, usually made of a paper or foil material.  This type of insulation is perfect for attics that have a lot of space to maneuver within, and in attics that have a standard layout with not too many obstructions.
The main choices of material that comprise either type of insulation include fiberglass, cellulose, or mineral wool.  If you would like assistance in deciding which insulation is best for your home, then please contact Bill White Roofing and Specialty.  We would love the opportunity to help you with all of your attic insulation needs or questions. ​