Pros and Cons of Attic Insulation Types

There are a few different types of attic insulation to choose from. Unfortunately, each has its pros and cons, so it cannot be easy to decide which is the best option for your home. This blog post will discuss the three most common types of attic insulation and how a specialist decides on attic insulation types that are best for a client. We will also talk about the benefits and drawbacks of each type so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

What is Attic Insulation

Attic insulation is simply material used to insulate the attic space in your home. Attic insulation helps to keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter by trapping heat or cool air in the attic and keeping it from escaping into the rest of your home.

Attic Insulation Types Pros and Cons

Here we will discuss some pros and cons of various attic insulation types so that you can decide what type of insulation is right for your home. Attic insulation comes in many different forms, but the three most common types are

• fibreglass batts
• loose-fill
• cellulose
• spray foam
• loose-fill cellulose

Fiberglass Batts

Fibreglass batts are the most common type of attic insulation. They are made from recycled glass that is melted down and spun into fibres. The fibres are then woven together to create a mat that can be cut into different sizes to fit your attic space. Fibreglass batts are easy to install and relatively inexpensive. However, they can settle over time and leave gaps in the insulation.

Fiberglass Batts pros:

• inexpensive
• easy to install

Fiberglass Batts cons:

• Can settle over time and leave gaps in the insulation

Loose-Fill Cellulose

Loose-fill cellulose is another popular type of attic insulation. It is made from recycled paper products that have been shredded and treated with fire retardants. Cellulose effectively blocks heat transfer and does not settle like fibreglass batts. However, it can be challenging to install and is more expensive than fibreglass batts.

Loose-Fill Cellulose pros:

• effective at blocking heat transfer
• does not settle over time

Loose-Fill Cellulose cons:

• difficult to install
• more expensive than fibreglass batts

Spray Foam

Spray foam insulation is a newer type of insulation growing in popularity. It is made from chemicals sprayed onto the attic floor and walls. Spray foam expands to fill gaps or holes, creating a tight seal that prevents heat from escaping. Spray foam is very effective at preventing heat loss but is also the most expensive attic insulation.

Spray Foam pros:

• prevents heat loss very effectively
• seals gaps and holes

Spray Foam cons:

• expensive
• requires professional installation

Loose-Fill

Loose-fill insulation is made from various materials, including fibreglass, cellulose, and mineral wool. It is blown into the attic using a particular machine and can be added to any existing insulation. Loose-fill insulation is less effective at preventing heat loss than spray foam, but it is much easier to install and is less expensive.

Loose-Fill pros:

• relatively easy to install
• less expensive than spray foam

Loose-Fill cons:

• not as effective at preventing heat loss as spray foam

Rigid Foam Board

Rigid foam board insulation is made from various materials, including polystyrene, polyisocyanurate, and fibreglass. It is cut to fit between the studs in your attic and is held in place with special adhesives or mechanical fasteners. Rigid foam board insulation is more effective at preventing heat loss than loose-fill insulation, but it is more expensive and more challenging to install.

Rigid Foam Board pros:

• more effective at preventing heat loss than loose-fill insulation

Rigid Foam Board cons:

• more expensive
• more difficult to install

Cellulose

Cellulose insulation is made from recycled newspaper and other paper products. It is treated with fire retardants and insecticides and then blown into your attic with a particular machine. Cellulose insulation is less expensive than rigid foam board and does an excellent job of preventing heat loss. However, it is not as effective as rigid foam board, and it can settle over time, leaving gaps in the insulation.

Cellulose pros:

• less expensive
• good at preventing heat loss

Cellulose cons:

• not as effective as rigid foam board
• can settle over time

Conclusion

If you have a tight budget, blown-in fibreglass may be your best option. However, spray foam or cellulose may be better choices if you want to save money in the long run and have a healthy home environment. No matter which type of insulation you choose, get a professional’s help in Texas, USA with installation to ensure that your attic is adequately insulated and up to code.