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Insulation Expert: What is an R-Value?
Insulations come in a variety of materials and are sourced from a variety of manufacturers. In order to provide consumers with a consistent guide to compare insulations, a standardized rating system was developed.
Insulation’s R-value indicates the success that the insulation has in resisting the flow of heat. The R-value will vary among insulations depending on the type of material, its thickness, and its density.
When you are selecting insulation for your home the most important rule to remember is the higher the R-value, the better the insulation’s effectiveness. You may also choose to install multiple layers of insulation, in which case, the total R-value will be the sum of the parts.
Although R-value is very important, it is not the only factor in successfully insulating a home. The effectiveness of the insulation also depends on who and where it is installed.
Improper installation of insulation can diminish the effectiveness of the insulation. For example, insulation that is compressed will not provide its full effect. This is why it is important to take note of the R-value as well as the space for which the insulation has been rated.
Installation of insulation for full effectiveness also requires an understanding of which materials can be used together and which cannot. For example, although you can fill a wall cavity with a mix of batt, roll or loose-fill insulation, you need to understand which one to use first. Installing high density insulation over a lower density one can diminish the lower density insulation’s R-value if it is easily compressed.
You should also understand that the R-value does not apply to parallel heat conduction paths. This means that although you may install optimal insulation in your wall cavities, heat will still be lost through studs and windows.
Although efforts have been made to make the R-value rating system as user-friendly as possible, some consumers can still find it confusing. The best advice, if you intend to insulate you own home, is to read the packaging carefully and ask questions if you are unclear.
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