The Pros and Cons of Residential Insulation Materials

The complexity of residential insulation is compounded by technological advancements and changes in home construction methods. Does the project require a straightforward thermal enclosure, or does your option also need to have sound-deadening and air-sealing qualities? 

 

The budget is also yet another factor, which is usually an essential point to consider. Learn both the advantages and disadvantages of the choicest insulation options which can assist you to make a wise decision.

 

Our specialists at Home Insulation Contractors are able to assist you in choosing the ideal insulation for your house. Complete the form posted below to leverage benefits.

Rigid Foam Insulation

Expanded or extruded polystyrene, polyisocyanurate, and rigid foam are the three main types of rigid foam that offer easy installation and foam performance. Its R-value and rating is comparable to those of spray foam. Although extruded foam sheets are resistant to exposure to the elements, all rigid foam is moisture-resistant and devoid of high-level condensation.

Pros

• The only type of insulation that prevents thermal transfer through structural components.
• There are no specific tools or worker safety precautions needed for installation.
• In between the high expense of spray foams and the inexpensive cost of blown and batt types.

Cons

• To maintain an airtight enclosure, all cuts and seams must be sealed after being made to fit around cables and piping.
• Rigid foam cannot be used for structural elements, and many foams in living areas must also be coated with drywall.
• Due to its less thickness and ageing properties, liquid polyurethane foam tends to pull away from the framing.

Blown Insulation

Very flexible and simple to install, blown insulation is usually compounded of fibreglass or cellulose. Its tiny particles fit into any nook and corner which can fill existing walls to a desired depth while causing little penetration damage. Planting can be beneficial in attics or harmful on walls. It is a practical answer to renovation problems. 

 Pros 

• The most affordable choice and is also simple to blow around pipework and conduits. 
•  Vacuum collection and free movement allow for its re-utilization. 

 Cons 

• The cellulose content might irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs. 
• Sometimes it can outweigh some common roof structures. 
• Holds sufficient moisture to lead to mould growth and performance issues.

Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam typically outperforms all other insulation products, effectively halting air flow, but the cost can be a big disadvantage. Although open-cell foam expands to fill any cavity, it has a lower R-value density and is more porous. A complete air, water, and vapour seal are produced by closed-cell foam because it maintains bubble integrity.

Pros 

• The highest R-value densities can be used on any surface such as a loft, floor, walls and attic. 
• Reduces sound transmission and does not require additional vapour barriers, particularly with closed-cell foam insulation. 
• Sprayed or foamed materials work well for insulating and enclosing existing walls, and oddly shaped spaces, and working around obstacles/hindrances. 

Cons

• The installation process emits hazardous gases, leaves a messy trail, and allows water to leak through unguarded tendons and openings.
• Usually demands a professional and skilled subcontractor with a particular skill set and wealth of knowledge. 
• Expensive compared to other insulation materials.

Blankets and Batt Insulation 

Fibreglass, cotton, or mineral wool insulation batts offer reliable, fundamental insulation qualities. Pre-cut materials work with common construction methods. extra care must be taken to fit around pipes and wiring cables, but compression does not significantly impact performance.

Pros

• Affordable and simple to install
• Optional facing serves as a vapour barrier support.

Cons 

• It can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs, which can lead to problems with lung health.
• Poor installation technique such as rips, tears, and open spaces degrades the performance.
• The potential for heat transfer through structural components.

Conclusion

Thermal insulation materials have both benefits and drawbacks, but it's also important to think about the specific kind of insulation that will work best for your house. There are benefits and drawbacks to loose-fill, blankets, batts, and rolls.

 

For instance, rolls can contain kraft paper, which serves as a vapour and air barrier, while batt insulation is obtainable in pre-cut sizes. Similarly, there are different types of loft insulation material: blown-fibre insulation, loose-fill insulation, insulation boards attached to roof joists, and blanket insulation placed in between joists. 

 

Workers who perform installations apply liquid foam to floors, walls, and other areas where homeowners need insulation. One of the best types of insulation, it creates a seal and helps to fill every gap. Although hiring a professional to install spray foam insulation is a bit pricey procedure, it also spares the homeowner from having to frequently seal cracks and crevices to regulate water and stop heat transfer.

 

Contact us right away at Home Insulation Contractors to set up your free, no-obligation consultation.