There are many types of insulation you can choose from when you decide to insulate your home. Before you decide on the type of insulation, you must determine where you want to install/add insulation and the recommended R-values for areas you want insulated.
There are four basic types of insulation: loose fill, batts and blankets, rigid board and spray foam.
Loose-fill Insulation – include loose fibres or fibre pellets blown into building cavities using special equipment. While it costs more, it is perfect to fill nooks and crannies easily, reduces air leakage and provides better sound insulation. While loose-fill insulation has an R value of 3-4 per inch, cellulose fibre has approximately 30% more insulating value than loose-fill rock wool.
Batt and Blanket Insulation – is made of mineral fibre. This being either processed fibreglass or rock wool. These are generally used to insulate below floors, above ceilings and within walls. It is the least expensive options but requires careful installation for effective performance.
Rigid Board Insulation – this too is made commonly from fibreglass as well as polystyrene or polyurethane and is available in a variety of thicknesses with a high insulation value of around R-4-8 per inch. Use mostly for reproofing work on flat roofs (repair leaking roof), basement walls and perimeter insulation at concrete slab edges.
Spray Foam Insulation – it is a two-part liquid with polymer and a foaming agent. It is sprayed through a nozzle into walls, ceilings and floor cavities and then expands into a solid cellular plastic which fills every nook and cranny. Remember, it should be applied by professionals only using special equipment.