Recommended R Value For Attic Insulation

The two distinct types of attic insulation are loose fill material also commonly known as blown in insulation and batting.

Recommended r value for attic insulation.

The amount of insulation recommended for your home will vary depending on a number of factors. In particularly cold climates you might go up to r 60. Where you live different climates require different insulation r values. Recommended home insulation r values.

The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. The r value of the insulation for every inch of thickness depends on the type of insulation. In general an attic s r value should be between r 30 and r 49. A good thermal barrier along a building envelope such as high r value insulation in the walls attic and raised floors as well as multi paned glass help to reduce conduction.

Insulation level are specified by r value. The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to r 38 or about 10 to 14 inches depending on insulation type. Insulation levels are specified by r value. The transfer of heat by contact with solid objects such as the ceiling walls or floor is called conduction see figure 1.

See the department of energy s doe ranges for recommended levels of insulation below. R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it. The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and. R values of common types of insulation.

Achieving greater r values in exterior walls. The recommended r value for attic insulation in ontario is between r 50 and r 60. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. Recycled glass or sand that s melted and spun into fibers.

Add the right kind of insulation. You can achieve better thermal performance in your attic by adding an additional layer of insulation. Lighter in weight than cellulose or mineral wool but it settles more than those materials so you ve got to put in a thicker layer to get the protection you need. Typical recommendations for exterior walls are r 13 to r 23 while r 30 r 38 and r 49 are common for ceilings and attic spaces.

You will need a higher r value of insulation if you live in the northeast than if you live in southern california. Your home s r value score will guide you toward the type of insulation you need. R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat flow.