Insulating with fiberglass is one of the most efficient ways of lowering energy bills

Fiberglass insulation has been the most popular insulation material for both commercial and residential projects. Fiberglass’ high R rating and simple installation are the main reasons fiberglass tops the list among the several available insulation technologies.

The term R value is defined as the ability of an insulation product to stop heat transfer; the insulation will do its job more effectively the greater its R rating. Insulation with higher R values will help to keep the heat inside and reduce your total energy costs. Different geographical areas will have different R value requirements, and will therefore need different types of insulation. You will not need a high R value insulation if you live in a warmer climate. You will see the most benefit from high R value insulation in colder climates, as it is the most efficient insulation at curtailing heat loss.

Since it is a member of the “loose-fill” insulation category, fiberglass is ”squashable” enough to fit into the smallest of spaces and also insulate the large areas of attics and walls. Fiberglass insulation is manufactured using glass that has been melted and then spun into fibers. Using recycled glass for much of the raw materials makes fiberglass insulation a reliable and “green” product. These fibers are then packaged as either rolls (utilizing a foil paper) or loosely bagged “blow-in” insulation.

The most popular type of insulation used in residential applications is fiberglass rolls, which are most often sold in widths perfect for fitting into the space between joists and between wall studs. The large, pink rolls of fiberglass insulation have become a common sight.

Blown in insulation is preferable for areas where accessibility is too difficult, such as eaves and irregular crawl spaces. With this type of insulation, small pieces of fiber are quickly blown into the area using specialized equipment. To help protect against settling, which could lessen the insulation’s effectiveness, a lot of the blow-in products are coated with a special adhesive that keeps all of the fiber pieces in place.

Another looming problem with blow-in insulation is the mess. If you disturb the stuff, it will wind up in places you don’t want it, like on the carpet and in your hair and down your back. So, if you plan on turning your attic into a storage space, it would be best to use the pink rolls and then cover the joists with plywood. This will have the added benefit of further insulating the house. You can also box in the blow-in fiberglass, but working with the rolls is just a lot easier, quicker, and cheaper.

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