10 Top Tips For Choosing The Right Insulation

By Author: Mark Munns
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When shopping for insulation to keep your home temperatures comfortable, you want to make sure you consider all factors to get the right type for your situation. Following a number of logical guidelines will help simplify your search.

Don't Assume All Insulation Is the Same

As with any other industry, no two insulation products are created exactly the same between competitors. There are many options to consider, including traditional fiberglass or spray foam, closed cell insulation materials, green insulation and the measured R-value of these materials. You mustn't forget that the quality of installation can be just as important, and there are several points of comparison other than just the R-value.

R-Value Is Just the Start

Many homeowners mistakenly assume that R-value is the best measure of the effectiveness of an insulation material and type or the only measure to consider. The truth is that this number must be considered in addition to the insulation's ability to keep air from escaping or entering into the home. You may even be best served by using one type of insulation to resist air flow ...
... and another to increase your R-value, such as a combination of spray foam and fiberglass.

Consider Your Home's Materials and Construction

In addition to remembering that the true measure of insulation includes both its ability to seal out air and its measured R-value, you want to consider the type of home you have and the quality of its existing construction. For example, if you are replacing the insulation surrounding an old leaky window, the window's draft will nullify a lot of the benefit of the insulation no matter how high the quality is that you choose. Moisture and air flowing through tiny cracks or spaces will drastically reduce your new insulation's ability to keep heat from traveling through your walls.

Don't Choose Only Based on price

Price should not be the deciding factor when choosing new insulation. Although you should have a budget in mind, you need to shop for the best value as well. Working with a reputable company or professional will help you to determine the best options for your home. You may find that the extra you spend could pay off in a few months' of energy savings.

Talk To a Qualified Professional, Not a Salesperson

It's easy to get caught up in all the hype seen on commercials or at trade shows. Ask your friends and family for a referral for a qualified insulation specialist, and ensure you aren't simply taking advice from a salesperson who most likely only gets paid if you buy. A trusted contractor can help guide you through the decision making process and meet your insulation goals while sticking as close to your budget as possible.

Understand the Investment You're Making

Many homeowners mistakenly believe that new insulation taking years to pay for itself is far too long. You must consider all factors when calculating the payback period, and then compare that to your return on your typical monetary investments. Your home's value and thus your equity in the home will increase, and you'll save on heating and cooling costs. This adds up quickly over time, and your insulation will most likely pay for itself within a few years.

Educate Yourself

In addition to finding a qualified professional, perform your own research so you at least understand the types of insulation available and what the advantages and disadvantages of each type may be. Check out a book, look online and visit local hardware stores before buying.

Determine Your Priorities

When faced with the need to save on energy costs, your budget may be at the forefront of your mind. Decide if you want to save money now or later, and why you're considering insulation. Choosing what you must have versus what you would like to have will result in a better decision in the long run.

Remember the Added Bonuses

Don't lose sight of the fact that new insulation will not only increase your home's value and lower your monthly living costs, but may even contribute to a better quality of life for your family. Reduced road noise, fewer pests, and increased comfort in the home are always an added bonus!

Consider Using Several Different Types of Insulation

Your contractor should also mention that several different types of insulation may be the best fit for your home and budget. Perhaps a combination of spray foam and cellulose are ideal in order to stop air flow and increase your R-value at the same time. A qualified professional will be able to make the best suggestions to fit your needs.

No matter the reason you've decided to start shopping for new insulation for your home, the decision process is a complex and sometimes difficult one. Consulting a professional and keeping the above points in mind will help keep you on the right path to a more energy efficient home and sound investment.
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Spray Foam Direct.com features quick and easy do-it-yourself spray foam insulation which will save you money and energy. Guardian Energy Technologies Inc. offers the added benefits of reducing our carbon footprint by offering foam it green solutions and balancing their impact through carbon reproduction projects. Visit online today.