Air Conditioners Review

Fiberglass insulation has been the top selling insulation material for both commercial and residential projects. Its high R value and ease of use are the most important reasons fiberglass tops the list among the many available insulation types.

The term R value is used to describe the ability of an insulation product to stop the transfer of heat; the insulation will do its job more efficiently the higher its R rating. Insulation with a high R rating will help to keep the heat inside and reduce your overall energy costs. Different areas of the country will have different R value requirements, and will therefore need different types of insulation. You will not need a high R value product if you reside in a warmer climate. You will see the most energy savings from high R value insulation in colder climates, as it is the most effective insulation at resisting heat loss.

Since it is a member of the “loose-fill” insulation category, fiberglass is ”squashable” enough to fit into the smallest of spaces and also cover the large areas of attics and walls. Fiberglass insulation is made using glass that has been melted and then spun into fibers. Using recycled glass for much of the raw materials makes fiberglass insulation a reliable and “green” product. These fibers are then packaged as either rolls (glued to a foil paper) or loosely bagged “blow-in” insulation.

The most popular type of insulation used in residential applications is fiberglass blankets, which are usually sold in widths perfect for fitting into the space between joists and between wall studs. The large, pink rolls of fiberglass insulation have become a common sight.

Blown in insulation is preferable for areas where accessibility is too difficult, like eaves and irregular crawl spaces. With this kind of insulation, small pieces of fiber are quickly blown into the space using specialized equipment. To help prevent settling, which could lessen the insulation’s effectiveness, many of the blow-in products are coated with a special adhesive that holds all of the fiber pieces in place.

Another looming problem with blow-in fiberglass is the mess. If you disturb the stuff, it will wind up everywhere, like on the floor and in your hair and down your back. Therefore, if you plan on using your attic as a storage space, it would be best to use the pink rolls and then cover the joists with plywood. This will have the added benefit of further insulating the house. You can also box in the blow-in fiberglass, but installing the rolls is just so much easier, quicker, and less expensive.