Facts On Insulation

Why Should You Insulate?

Heating and cooling ("space conditioning") account for 50% to 70% of the energy used in the average American home. About 20% goes for heating water. On the other hand, lighting and appliances and everything else account for only 10% to 30% of the energy used in most residences. It makes good sense to turn lights and appliances off when they are not needed, and you'll save even more on your energy costs if you reduce the amount of energy needed for heating and cooling.

How Much Should You Insulate?

Insualtion is rated by its R-value. This is a measure of its thermal resistance, or how well it holds back warm or cool air. The higher the R-value, the better. R-value is proportional to the insulation's thickness, but it also depends on the type of material and its density. The more air pockets an insulating product has, the higher the R-value.

Different areas of your home require different R-values of insulation. The illustration shows the minimum levels you should have and the amount recommended for your home.

Also improving sidewall insulation, though more difficult, can also help you lower your energy costs by about 10%. In this process, loose-fill insulation is blown into wall cavities through holes.

Not only will good insulation lower your energy bills, it can also increase your home's value, decrease maintenance and costs and reduce outside noise pollution.

Types Of Insulation

Cellulose is made from recycled paper, such as newsprint or cardboard, shredded into small bits treated with chemicals to make it fire, heat, and insect resistant. It is applied as loose fill or wet spray through a blow machine.

Fiberglass is the most common type of insulation. It is made from molten glass spun into microfibers . It's pink, yellow, or white and comes in the forms of batts or rolled blankets.

Noise Insulation can

Synthetic Insulation, usually polystyrene foam, is commonly used in rigid boards for insulating basements, cathedral ceilings or furred masonry walls. Polyurethane is manufactured as an expanding foram. When applied, it expands up two to four times its original size, filling even the smallest holes and cracks.

The right insulation for your home depends on various factors like type of construction, room sizes, room configuration, roof/ceiling design, directional orientation, typical weather conditions, ventilation, etc. Anything from batts, blown, foils, vinyl, radiant barrier, wet spray or foam here at King Insulation, we will help you choose the best option for your needs.