When discussing insulation with homeowners, one of the most common questions that comes up is, “What is an R-value?” In this article, we are going to provide you with an answer to that question along with some helpful information pertaining to properly insulating your home.
Insulation R-Values – The Basics
Essentially, an R-value is a rating score based on an insulation material’s capability to effectively prevent heat transfer. The more thermally resistant the insulation, the higher the R-value. The ideal R-value depends on where the insulation is being installed within your home in combination with the general climate your home is located in.
Walls generally require lower R-values to be sufficiently insulated. Floors and crawlspaces require medium to high R-Values to achieve the same level of thermal resistance. And attics usually require the highest R-Values to effectively block the transfer of heat.
Location, Location, Location
Homes within Long Island and the greater New York region generally require minimum R-values in the midrange compared to higher R-values needed further north in colder climates and lower R-values in warmer southern climates.
R-Values of Different Insulation Types
The R-values of various forms of insulation are largely dependent upon the insulation material, its density, and its thickness. A home can be effectively insulated using one form of insulation in subsets of different thicknesses and correlating R-values depending on the area where each subset will be installed. But you can also choose to insulate your home using more than one type of insulation material throughout the different areas of your house. For example, it might make sense to insulate your attic using spray foam insulation while insulating other parts of your home with batt fiberglass insulation.
Spray Foam Insulation R-Values
At Radiant Drywall & Insulation, we use ICYNENE’s trusted line of spray foam insulation products. ICYNENE spray foam insulation R-values range from 3.7 per inch up to 6.75 per inch. Closed-cell spray foam generally has a higher R-value compared to open-cell spray foam insulation. As an ICYNENE Gold Circle Licensed Contractor and Dealer, the Radiant Drywall & Insulation team will be able to precisely determine the amount and type of spray foam required to properly insulate every area of your home. Spray foam insulation can also work as an effective air sealing material, further increasing your home’s comfort and energy efficiency.
Batt Fiberglass Insulation R-Values
| Thickness (Inches) | R-Value | Effectively Insulates |
|---|---|---|
| 3 1/2 | 11 | Interior metal framed walls |
| 3 5/8 | 13 | Exterior walls |
| 3 1/2 (high density) | 15 | Exterior walls |
| 6 to 6 1/4 | 19 | Exterior walls |
| 5 1/4 (high density) | 21 | Exterior walls |
| 8 to 8 1/2 | 25 | Floors & crawlspaces |
| 8 (high density) | 30 | Floors & crawlspaces |
| 9 1/2 (standard) | 30 | Floors & crawlspaces |
| 12 | 38 | Floors, crawlspaces & attics |
Quality Insulation, Professional Installation
At Radiant Drywall & Insulation, we pride ourselves in providing homeowners with access to the most trusted insulation products in the industry and a team of professionals that knows exactly how to install them to your full satisfaction. Contact us today to schedule a free evaluation.
