The P. Gagnon & Son Blog

Why Is Insulation Important To My Home?

Get Comfort And Energy Efficiency!

attic insulation maine

Heating and cooling make up about half (or more) of the energy costs in your Seacoast region home. Your HVAC equipment is also a major investment in your comfort.

Protect that investment and save money by making sure that your home is adequately insulated. Adding the proper amount of insulation lowers your energy costs all year-round. You’ll enjoy a cool home this summer for less money!

Here are some key things to know about insulation.

Types Of Insulation

Blanket: They come in batts or rolls and are usually made of fiberglass. This kind of insulation is not only inexpensive, but it is a material that can a DIY installation, saving even more money.

Rigid foam or foam board: These are made of polystyrene and other materials. They provide good insulation without being very thick.

Loose blown-in: It’s made from materials such as fiberglass, cellulose, or mineral wool. This insulation needs to be professionally installed. It is ideal for finished spaces, as walls do not have to be removed for installation.

Expanding foam: This insulation is professionally applied. It provides outstanding insulation, as the foam expands to seal any drafts where it is applied. It can be installed in both finished and unfinished spaces.

How Much Insulation You Need

If you’re investing in insulation for your home, you want to make sure you’ve added enough to make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient. That’s where the R-value comes in. The R-value of your insulation measures the resistance of heat flow through the insulation. The higher the R-value, the more effective the insulation is. 

Here’s what R-Value you need if you are adding insulation to your attic, according to the U.S. Department of Energy:

3 to 4 inches of insulation already in attic: Between R38 and R49

Uninsulated attic: Between R49 and R60

P. Gagnon helps your home be energy efficient with our quality HVAC and comfort equipment. Contact us today to get a FREE estimate!