Your home’s attic is a major source of energy loss. Warm air can rise as it exits the home during cold days, and even cool air can escape easily during the summer. Proper insulation can resolve the problem.
It’s important to insulate your attic with the right materials. Here, Beyond Exteriors discusses the available attic insulation options and how to choose the right one for your home.
What Are the Different Types Of Attic Insulation?
Like other areas of the home, insulation is critical for your attic. There are many different types of insulation, each offering their own benefits. Most of these materials are useful for the attic but must be installed in the right spaces.
The most common forms of insulation found in attics include fiberglass batts, blown-in fiberglass, blown-in cellulose, and spray foam insulation.
Fiberglass Batt Insulation
Fiberglass batts are some of the most common insulators on the market. The fiberglass material is dense and can protect against heat and cooling loss and exterior temperatures. These batts are cut to fit perfectly into walls and tend to feature R-ratings of 38, 49, and 60.
Pros & Cons of Fiberglass Batt Insulation
Some benefits of fiberglass batt insulation include:
- Available in a variety of shapes and sizes
- Available in a range of R-values
One major drawback of this material is that it can break down over time if exposed to moisture.
Blown-In Fiberglass Insulation
Made of the same material as fiberglass batts, blown-in fiberglass insulation is excellent for large attic spaces. The space between your attic floor and your upstairs ceiling is a great place for blown-in insulation. A professional with the right tools can blow in this material.
Pros & Cons of Blown-In Insulation
The benefits of blown-in insulation include:
- Easy to install
- Provides high-grade protection
However, it’s important to note that blown-in insulation can be difficult to remove.
Blown-In Cellulose Insulation
Similar to blown-in fiberglass, cellulose is used to fill large spaces quickly. This insulation is made of eco-friendly, recycled materials. The density of the shredded materials makes it a great option for insulating your attic.
Pros & Cons of Blown-In Cellulose Insulation
This material is eco-friendly and made from recycled materials. It’s also a dense insulating material. Like the previous blown-in insulation mentioned, removal and replacement can be difficult.
Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam insulation is applied to surfaces to fill cracks where air loss occurs. This material expands quickly after being applied, filling any openings on the surface. The thick barrier created by spray foam insulation does a great job of keeping outdoor temperatures outdoors.
Pros & Cons of Spray Foam Insulation
Before selecting spray foam insulation, it’s important to note its benefits and disadvantages, which include:
- Complete sealing of cracks and openings
- Fast application and easy to install more
- Not easy to fill large spaces
What’s the Best Type of Insulation for Attics?
While there are many good options for attics, fiberglass batts are the best choice for attic insulation. These large batts can be installed quickly and easily into all the walls of your attic. Batts rated as R-60 are the best option, being made of dense fiberglass and keeping the home well-insulated.
When you need insulation services for your home in Northern Virginia, choose fiberglass batts at an R-value of 60, installed by expert insulation installers.
Further Insulation Reading:
- The Best Insulation Brands For Your Home
- How Fiberglass Insulation Can Save You Money
- Why You Should Consider Replacing Your Attic Insulation This Fall
- Why You Should Replace Your Attic Insulation Before Winter
- Benefits of Hiring a Professional Insulation Contractor
Schedule Attic Insulation Services in Northern Virginia
Locally owned and operated, Beyond Exteriors has spent years providing insulation, siding, roofing, gutters, windows, and door services throughout Northern Virginia. We only install the best products, deliver accurate estimates, and work hard to ensure your satisfaction. Turn to us for upfront pricing, special discounts for veterans and senior citizens, and financing options.
Ensure your home has proper insulation with help from Beyond Exteriors.
Call our team today to request a free estimate for attic insulation services in Northern Virginia.