by Laura Macmurchie

Created on: January 08, 2007   Last Updated: April 29, 2007

The "how-to" of home insulation can be less important than the "with what" question. You may not realize that there are so many very different types of products used for residential insulation today. These vary from the "pink stuff", available in home improvement and hardware stores, to blown-in cellulose, blanket insulation made from recycled denim or wool, and polyurethane spray foam. The prices vary as does the methodology. Some types of insulation require specialized installation equipment and certified installation contractors. It pays to do the research before your final home design is complete. Your contractor will have his or her preferences, as will the building officials in your area. Before moving on to the really fun decisions about the interior decor of the home, be certain that care and attention is given to the choice of product to go between the dry wall and the exterior siding. Making a poor choice of insulation can likely cost the home owner on higher monthly energy bills. The choice of insulation product can potentially save a lot of money on energy bills and also prevent problems associated with air infiltration (ie. mold and infestation) for years to come.

When researching the different types of insulation materials, there is a lot more to understand than the old fashioned "R value" analysis. The consumer will have some reading to do, and it is possible that the consumer may find himself or herself in the business of educating his contractor. The building codes are just starting to reflect the scientific reality that most energy loss is through air infiltration through insulation, air leaks through the walls and in the gaps where insulation is moved or shifts over time. Gravity causes some forms of insulation to shift over time, decreasing the R value and resulting in decreased energy efficiency of the insulation. There is an abundance of information available on the internet from the various manufacturers, as well as information provided by the Department of Energy. The important term is "building envelope". Understanding the science of the building envelope, and reading about the changing and improving science and technology can assist in making a well-educated choice of insulation. With the cost of energy today, it is even more important that consumers give careful thought to the choice of insulation product used in their home.

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