Cellulose Attic Insulation R Value

R value measures conductive resistance.

Cellulose attic insulation r value.

The common standard by which insulation is measured r value is the level of resistance to heat flow. Loose fill cellulose is relatively inexpensive yet still has an r value of about 3 5 per inch of thickness compared to fiberglass r value between r3 to r4 per inch. Polystyrene loose fill or bead insulation typically has a lower r value compared to the foam board. The r value for cellulose insulation in an attic depends on several factors including the size shape and construction of your attic typical weather conditions where you live any air leaks and.

The term used to define an insulation material s resistance to heat loss. R value is an essential factor to consider when selecting an insulation material for your premises. With blown in cellulose insulation that would require insulation to a depth of 10 inches. You will need a higher r value of insulation if you live in the northeast than if you live in southern california.

Input depth of existing blown in insulation in inches. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. Achieving greater r values in exterior walls. You can achieve better thermal performance in your attic by adding an additional layer of insulation.

There are many ways to retrofit a home with fiberglass and. Loose fill cellulose insulation can settle around and conform to most of the obstructions found in walls and attics. It measures the ability of a material to impede the flow of heat along a continuous solid mass. In comparison an inch of blown fiberglass insulation has an r value of 3 1 3 4 and an inch of blown cellulose in an attic has an r value of 3 2 3 7.

Your home s age if your home is more than 10 year old you likely need more insulation. Where you live different climates require different insulation r values. The choices can be difficult to sift but cellulose insulation passes as a strong contender. Insulation materials come in many forms.

Over time the r value of xps insulation can drop as some of the low conductivity gas escapes and air replaces it a phenomenon is known as thermal drift or ageing. As a benchmark one inch of solid wood has an r value of 1. This calculator is to be used as an estimating tool only. Once the current r value is estimated check the recommended r value based on the region of the country.

So for example a home in kansas is recommended to have a minimum r38 for attic insulation. The thermal resistance or r value of polystyrene foam board depends on its density. When walls are already finished injecting loose fill cellulose insulation is one of the few ways of adding. They are sprayed stapled blown nailed or simply laid in place.