Attic Insulation Thickness R Value

The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation.

Attic insulation thickness r value.

Insulation project calculator how to install naima r value certification product training videos colab learning video library for pros distributor locator why owens corning insulation propink vs. See the department of energy s doe ranges for recommended levels of insulation below. You can achieve better thermal performance in your attic by adding an additional layer of insulation. The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to r 38 or about 10 to 14 inches depending on insulation type.

As a benchmark one inch of solid wood has an r value of 1. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. Meaning if you use a tight air seal you don t need to use as high of a total r value. Typical recommendations for exterior walls are r 13 to r 23 while r 30 r 38 and r 49 are common for ceilings and attic spaces.

You can use the small pressurized cans of foam. Your home s age if your home is more than 10 year old you likely need more insulation. Along with knowing the r value of a particular insulation it is also important to calculate the r value of a total system. Some installations can yield a higher r value than traditional batt insulation for the same thickness and can fill even the smallest cavities creating an effective air barrier.

The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. Foam in place insulation can be blown into walls on attic surfaces or under floors to insulate and reduce air leakage. Add the right kind of insulation. R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat flow.

Recommended home insulation r values. The r value of some insulations also depends on temperature aging and moisture accumulation. R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it. For example residential icc code 5 2 9 r806 5 for attic insulation says air impermeable insulation is not required to meet the r value minimum listed in the chart above.

Insulation levels are specified by r value. There are many ways to retrofit a home with fiberglass and. Here s another specific code example. Where you live different climates require different insulation r values.

Insulation level are specified by r value. The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and. In comparison an inch of blown fiberglass insulation has an r value of 3 1 3 4 and an inch of blown cellulose in an attic has an r value of 3 2 3 7. You will need a higher r value of insulation if you live in the northeast than if you live in southern california.

Achieving greater r values in exterior walls.