As energy efficiency becomes increasingly critical for builders and homeowners, selecting the right building materials is essential. This is especially important for insulation; the R-value should be the first metric you consider. Please keep reading to learn more about R-value and why it’s essential for home insulation.
What is Insulation R-Value?
Short for Resistance Value, R-value rates how well building insulation can prevent heat flow into and out of the home. Higher ratings mean greater insulation performance and thus more savings on your next heating and cooling bill. This is determined with a test in which insulation is sandwiched between a cold and warm surface. The ability to resist temperature changes results in an R-value. Inadequate R-values can account for much wasted energy, so ensuring the insulation installed does its job correctly is essential. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation should perform, at least in theory.
Insulation R-Value Chart
Here’s a closer look at that range for each material per inch. Remember that a range exists because different brands and manufacturers may have different R-values.
- Closed Cell Spray Foam: R-6 to R-7
- Foam Board: R-4.5 to R-5
- RetroFoam Injection Foam: R-4.6 to R-5
- Open Cell Spray Foam: R-3.6 to R-3.9
- Cellulose (Loose-Fill): R-3.1 to R-3.8
- Fiberglass (Batts): R-2.9 to R3.8
- Fiberglass (Loose-Fill): R-2.2 to R-2.9
What R-Value Do I Need?
The R-value that you need will depend on where you are located and the specifics of your project. Although a higher R-value generally means a more effective insulation, the highest R-value may not be right for your project. This can be especially true if the space you’re insulating already has insulation. Also, houses in certain climates don’t need as much insulation as others. For example, homeowners in Florida don’t need to worry about insulating against snow and ice compared to the weather here in New England. To understand what insulation material is best for you, visit energystar.gov to view recommended insulation levels nationwide.
Questions About Insulation? Call Anderson Insulation
Want to know more about your insulation options or need to schedule insulation installation in your home? We can help! Anderson Insulation offers quality building and insulation services to Maine and New Hampshire residents.