Need to re-insulate your home? Not sure if you need insulation but tired of dealing with rising energy bills? Sick of dealing with drafty rooms and uneven temperatures inside your home? The right insulation solutions can help, but one question remains: how much insulation do you need?
The answer relates to the R-value and recommended levels. What is insulation R-value and what does it mean for you? In simple terms, the R-value stands for resistance, and it’s a basic measurement of an insulation material’s heat resistance.
How Is Insulation R-Value Calculated?
Let’s start with an example: solid wood has an R-value of 1. An R-value is also calculated per inch of width. Therefore, a three-inch-thick board has an R-value of 3. Blown fiberglass installed in the attic has an R-value of 2.2 per inch, so 12 inches of it would give you an R-value of 26.4 in your attic insulation project.
Insulation professionals will be able to tell you how much insulation you need, based on:
- What region you live in (see the map below)
- What type of HVAC systems you have
- The size of your home
- Where you need to insulate
- And more
One of the most important aspects is where you live.
What Are Recommended R-Values for the Washington, DC Metropolitan Area?
Source: energystar.gov
Here in the DC area, we are in Zone 4. In wood-framed homes—for both new construction and retrofit projects—the insulation R-values are as follows:
Of course, it’s important to talk to your insulation company about specifics. They’ll be able to determine how much insulation you need and recommend solutions for your unique situation and any special cases.
Related to R-value and how much insulation you need, professionals will help you determine where you need to insulate (attic insulation, wall insulation or crawl space insulation) and what type of insulation to install. Your options are:
- Fiberglass
- Radiant barrier
- Spray foam
- Cellulose
This is a lot of information, but don’t worry—you won’t be on your own. An insulation company will be able to help you with all your needs and explain R-value, the right amount of insulation for your home and more!
Home Insulation Services in DC & Maryland
The R-Value shouldn’t be the only determining factor. How old your home is, its location and building materials also play an important role when it comes to choosing the right insulation. Cost and the inhabitants of the home may be another factor in your decision-making. To discuss your project and get the ball rolling, get in touch with the Accurate Insulation team for your free estimate!
Contact us online or call 301-358-6411!
