Proper R Value For Attic Insulation

In calculating the r value of a multi layered installation the r values of the individual layers are added.

Proper r value for attic insulation. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. The higher the r value the greater the insulation performance. Installing more insulation in your home increases the r value and the resistance to heat flow. The r value of thermal insulation depends on the type of material its thickness and density.

Insulation level are specified by r value. First things first you need to go up into your attic inspect the condition of the insulation and calculate the current level of insulation. When determining how much insulation you need don t guesstimate calculate. Inspecting your attic insulation.

In general an attic s r value should be between r 30 and r 49. R value the greater the insulating effectiveness. Know exactly how much you need with our project calculators. The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and.

This means the insulation can t maintain the internal temperature of the home as effectively as it should. Insulation levels are specified by r value. R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat flow. Installing more insulation in your home increases r value and the resistance to heat flow.

Lighter in weight than cellulose or mineral wool but it settles more than those materials so you ve got to put in a thicker layer to get the protection you need. R value measures how well certain building insulation materials can resist heat. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. A home without proper attic insulation will have more moisture in the attic that will become trapped in the insulation and make it even less effective than it should be.

When calculating the r value of a multilayered installation add the r values of the individual layers. The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to r 38 or about 10 to 14 inches depending on insulation type. A good thermal barrier along a building envelope such as high r value insulation in the walls attic and raised floors as well as multi paned glass help to reduce conduction. Recycled glass or sand that s melted and spun into fibers.

The transfer of heat by contact with solid objects such as the ceiling walls or floor is called conduction see figure 1. Reduced r value of insulation. 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.

Recommended home insulation r values. Your attic should have a certain amount of insulation in it and the recommended level of insulation for your attic is dependent on where you live.