Proper house insulation – an often-overlooked process, is an important step in creating a comfortable, efficient, and environmentally friendly living space. By strategically placing insulating materials in your walls, floors, and attic, you’re not just trapping warmth in winter and coolness in summer – you’re investing in a quieter, healthier, and more valuable home. From reducing noise pollution to lowering your carbon footprint, the benefits of proper insulation extend far beyond simply feeling cozy on a chilly evening. The following tips will guide you on the best practices in insulating your home.
What is it?
Insulation is material installed in various parts of your house to resist heat transfer. In winter, it traps warmth inside, preventing heat loss to the colder outside. In summer, it does the opposite, keeping the cool air in and hot air out.
Types of Insulation
- Fiberglass: The most common and affordable type, available in batts, rolls, and loose-fill forms. Driven by more stringent energy codes and the desire to manage overall costs, high-performance fiberglass insulation has already been a favorite among insulation contractors for single-family homes.
- https://www.builderonline.com/building/building-science/insulation-and-air-barriers_o.
- Spray foam: Provides excellent air sealing and high R-value (resistance to heat flow), but more expensive.
- Rockwool: Made from volcanic rock, offering fire resistance and good soundproofing.
- Cellulose: Made from recycled paper, good for attics and hard-to-reach areas.
Tip #1 – Determine the insulation R-value needed
The insulation R-value is a measure of how well the insulation resists heat transfer. The R-value you need depends on your climate and the part of the house you’re insulating.
For example, the Department of Energy recommends R-49 insulation in the attic for homes in colder climates, while R-38 is recommended for homes in warmer climates. For the Chicago’s climate, the recommended insulation R-value varies depending on the location within the house. Read more about Chicago specific insulation R- values here.
Chicago follows the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) for insulation requirements.Here’s a breakdown based on the latest Chicago Energy Transformation Code (2021):
Tip #2 – Choose the right type of insulation
There are many types of insulation to choose from, including fiberglass batts, blown-in cellulose, and spray foam. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, so consider factors such as cost, ease of installation, and effectiveness.
- R-value: Higher R-value indicates better insulation performance. Consider climate and building codes.
- Material: Choose based on budget, desired properties (e.g., fire resistance, soundproofing), and ease of installation.
- Professional installation: Crucial for proper air sealing and maximizing benefits.
“For the Chicago climate, the recommended insulation R-value varies depending on the location within the house.” –
BOFRAN insulation specialist
Tip #3 – Install the insulation
The installation method will depend on the type of insulation you choose. For example, if you’re using fiberglass batts, you’ll need to cut them to fit between the framing members and staple them in place. If you’re using blown-in cellulose, you’ll need to use a machine to blow the insulation into the wall cavities.
Tip #4 – Seal air leaks
Even the best insulation won’t be effective if there are air leaks in the walls. Use caulk or foam to seal any gaps around windows, doors, and other penetrations.
Tip #5 – Consider adding a vapor barrier
In some climates, it may be necessary to add a vapor barrier to prevent moisture from entering the walls. This is especially important in humid climates.
Tip #6 – Don’t skip the attic
The attic plays a crucial role in overall energy efficiency, with approximately half of the energy bill for an average home used for heating and cooling, and half of the remaining portion attributed to energy loss through the attic. Neglecting the attic seems unthinkable given that it’s relatively cheap to address during construction of the house.
On average it costs approximately $1,400 to insulate and attic, of which $100-$500 is material cost (for those of you considering a DIY project). Despite the benefits and relatively low cost of insulation, many attics are under-insulated and poorly sealed, leading to discomfort, dust accumulation, and high electricity bills.
“Before anything, you have to seal all penetrations into the attic such as electric boxes, ceiling fans, knee walls, and attic openings, but you have to make sure the soffit vent can ventilate or it can lead to moisture problems.”
Amber Wood, program manager for energy efficiency at the NAHB Research Center
The solution to these issues is to seal the attic and add the recommended 13 inches of cellulose insulation. The process of air sealing and insulation helps establish the home’s thermal envelope, preventing air leakage and maintaining a consistent temperature in the living space below.
“Before anything, you have to seal all penetrations into the attic such as electric boxes, ceiling fans, knee walls, and attic openings, but you have to make sure the soffit vent can ventilate or it can lead to moisture problems.”
Amber Wood, program manager for energy efficiency at the NAHB Research Center
By investing a small amount upfront to seal and insulate attics, contractors can provide long-term benefits for homeowners in terms of energy efficiency and comfort.
Tip #7 – Hire a professional
If you’re not comfortable with insulation installation or have a large project, consider hiring a professional to ensure the job is done properly.
By following these steps, you can properly insulate the framing of your house and enjoy a more comfortable and energy-efficient living space.
Additional Tips:
- Seal air leaks: Sealing gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and other openings is crucial for optimal insulation performance.
- Maintain ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and maintain healthy indoor air quality.
- Consider professional audit: An energy audit can identify areas for improvement and recommend specific insulation needs.
