Required Insulation In The Attic

In general to optimally isolate an attic on average an r value of the insulation is required ranging from r 50 to r 60.

Required insulation in the attic.

Find your zone on the map and then use the chart to determine the level of insulation you need to properly insulate your attic walls floors and crawlspaces. For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices. Loose fill cellulose insulation is composed of pulverized paper and fabric material treated with a flame retardant. Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product.

Inspecting your attic insulation. The insulation levels of an attic or of any part of a house are understood through the r value that is the value with which the insulating material is resistant to heat flow. Consider products that provide both insulation and structural support such as structural insulated panels sips and masonry products like insulating concrete forms. The attic is the easiest place to add insulation to improve your comfort and the energy efficiency of your home.

The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. You should consider attic or roof radiant barriers in hot climates reflective insulation and foundation insulation for new home construction. In zone 7 the average minimum requirement for attic insulation is 14 inches of r49 fill. Your attic should have a certain amount of insulation in it and the recommended level of insulation for your attic is dependent on where you live.

Achieving greater r values in attics the higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. The average recommended level is 17 inches of r60. Insulation level are specified by r value. Unlike fiberglass insulation installed in roll out batts on the attic floor.

The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and locations in the home. First things first you need to go up into your attic inspect the condition of the insulation and calculate the current level of insulation. Now that you ve air sealed your attic and basement check your attic insulation levels and add more if necessary. Both can be added to uninsulated attics or layered over existing material.

While federal and in some cases state guidelines for insulation levels are merely recommendations the local building code is the true authority over insulation requirements.