home iNSULATION BASICS

Insulation is the most single important element in terms of home's energy efficiency, and a key element to reduce energy bills. Install the maximum amount of it in your home's attic, walls, ceilings and floors. Often that means higher levels than those required by law.

Insulation audits

Before installing insulation, it's advantageous do conduct at least some simple checks on your insulation.

See: Energy Audit.

Attic, walls, Slab... Insulation

Install as much insulation on your attic, walls and floors as possible. Attaining the official recommendations is basic.

See:

Attic Insulation
Roof and Ceiling Insulation
Walls Insulation
Floor Insulation
Slab Insulation
Moisture and insulation
Ducts sealing and insulation
Pipe insulation

Insulation materials

Most insulation materials belong to two main categories: the more traditional one (fiberglass, cellulose and mineral wall) and the plastic foam products category.

See:

Insulation materials
Spray-on Foam Insulation
Cellulose insulation
Fiberglass and Mineral Wool insulation
Reflective Insulation
Insulation & performance
Insulation Materials & Environment

R-values

The insulating materials efficiency is measured by their R-value (their thermal resistance, or resistance to heat flow). Modern plastic foams offer very high R-values, that is, they are better insulators inch for inch, which doesn't mean that they are always the best option. Prices, the easiness or difficulty of the installation, and the eventual possibility of using several layers of cheaper insulation (whenever there is place to do it) can turn common fiberglass or cellulose into a better option than a spray-on foam. It depends on the intended uses and parts of the house.

See:

Insulation materials
Insulation & Performance and R-values

Insulation and climates zones

Colder climates demand higher levels of insulation.

See: Insulation & climate zones

Dealing with insulation contractors and builders

Builders are tempted to reduce insulation, which may also be poorly installed.

See: How to deal with Insulation contractors and home builders

Insulation and windows

Highly efficient windows (and doors and skylights) are a key element of any building insulation.

See: Advanced Windows

Insulation materials & Environment

See: Insulation Materials & Environment

Insulation: tips and recommendations

See:Insulation tips