What Is The Best Roof Insulation
Regular Post
Written by Barrier Insulation Inc

What Is The Best Roof Insulation?

If you’re searching “Attic Insulation” in Phoenix, we can help. Barrier Insulation offers the best attic insulation in Phoenix! Our team knows how to insulate attics the right way for your home. We install the best insulation for Arizona and proudly serve every city in the Phoenix Valley including: Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, Glendale, Gilbert, Tempe and more.

Barrier Insulation offers the best attic insulation service in the Phoenix Valley. We offer all the different types of attic insulation to fit every demand and every budget.  Insulating the attic is one of the most important areas of the home to insulate to reduce dependency on air conditioning and heating.  Read more about the types of attic insulation we offer.

Blown-In Attic Insulation

Blown In Attic InsulationOne of the better choices is blown in attic insulation. It is installed by techs that have a large hose and shoot the insulation into the attic. They have training to create an even, uniformly deep layer of insulation. This is done by using a large air driven machine that churns up the material into chunks and then blows them up the hose and into the attic.

For blown material you have two main choices. There is cellulose and fiberglass blown in material. Both have advantages and disadvantages. With similar R values they both insulate well and are approximately 3 -4 R per inch. Fiberglass insulation is produced primarily from old glass or sand. Cellulose blown in insulation is made from recycled newspapers.

Depending on your application blown in insulation might be your only insulator in your attic, or you might use it in conjunction with other insulators to get the best energy efficiency. Blown in attic insulation sits on the floor of your attic as an even layer and helps keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Batt Attic Insulation

Rolled Batt Attic InsulationBatt attic insulation is pretty straight forward to install as it is rolls of material typically lined with a paper backing. They are made from interweaving fibers that are long and have adhesive qualities. This means they stick to each other and stick together as a grouping. Batt insulation is made from two source materials, cotton and fiberglass. Cotton batts are made from recycled denim jeans. Fiberglass batts are typically made from sand or recycled glass that is processed into the insulating strands and fibers.

To install the batts they must be cut to fit each and every space they will be installed in. Even with the best of intentions there are tricky spots around corners, pipes, wires, junction boxes and other areas that end up having gaps. This means there are areas that simply are not insulated as well as other insulation options.

Spray Foam Attic Insulation

Spray Foam Attic InsulationOne of the most energy efficient types of attic insulation is spray foam. It comes in two types that have pros and cons. There is open and closed cell spray insulation. A larger percentage of homes were built with the HVAC and duct system in the attic of the home. This means that if your insulation is sitting on the floor of your attic, your system is having to work harder. Moving the “envelope”, or area of your home that is climate controlled, to the roofline can greatly increase your energy efficiency. Spray foam allows this envelop to be at the roofline, and helps fill in all the areas that batt insulation can struggle with.

Highly trained and skilled insulation technicians can spray the foam so there are no gaps or voids in the layer of insulation covering the attic ceiling. This means that the ducts carrying your hot and cold air to heat and cool your home are working in a more moderate climate. That translates into less energy being used to keep your home comfortable all year long.

Radiant Barrier Attic Insulation

Radiant barrier insulation provides an additional layer of protection to keep your attic and home more comfortable, and use less air conditioning and heating.  This type of insulation has the same goal of preventing heat from entering homes as traditional insulation but achieves the goal in a different way.  Instead of using thick layers of foam, loose insulation, or fiberglass batts it reflects the energy and heat with highly reflective surfaces.

It can be installed as a foil backed insulation board or it can be installed by spraying a highly reflective product onto the bottom of the roof decking in the attic.  Barrier insulation installs R-Max radiant barrier and HeatBloc Ultra spray radiant barrier.

The Best Roof Insulation

Clearly the best roof insulation really depends on your home and your needs. If you don’t have any ducts or HVAC system in your attic and you don’t plan to finish or use the attic space, you might consider one of the less costly insulation types. However if you have ducts in your attic and want to keep your home as energy efficient as possible using spray foam might be a more costly, but better long term investment. Having local attic insulation experts come to your home and help you develop an effective and budget friendly insulation plan for your home is the only way to get the best attic insulation for you individual needs.

No matter which type of roof insulation you choose, it is important to have it installed properly by a qualified contractor. This will ensure that the insulation is effective and will last for many years.

Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing roof insulation:

  • R-value: The R-value is a measure of how well an insulation material resists heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation.
  • Air sealing: In addition to insulation, it is also important to air seal your roof. This will help to prevent air infiltration, which can contribute to heat loss.
  • Budget: Roof insulation can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It is important to factor in the cost of installation when choosing an insulation material.

What Is R-Value?

R-value is a measure of how well a material resists heat flow. It is measured in units of per inch of thickness. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation.

For example, one inch of fiberglass insulation has an R-value of about R13. This means that it will resist heat flow 13 times better than one inch of air.

The R-value of an insulation material depends on a number of factors, including the type of material, the thickness of the material, and the density of the material.

In general, materials with low thermal conductivity have higher R-values. Thermal conductivity is a measure of how well a material conducts heat. Materials with low thermal conductivity are good insulators.

Some common insulation materials with high R-values include:

  • Fiberglass insulation: R-13 to R-30
  • Rockwool insulation: R-19 to R-49
  • Cellulose insulation: R-3.5 to R-38
  • Spray foam insulation: R-6 to R-60

The R-value of an insulation material is important because it can help to reduce heat loss and save energy. Insulating your home can help you to lower your heating and cooling bills, and it can also make your home more comfortable.

When choosing insulation for your home, it is important to consider the climate you live in, the type of insulation material you prefer, and your budget. You should also consult with a qualified contractor to ensure that the insulation is installed properly.

New Kinds of Insulation

  • Aerogel: Aerogel is a solid form of air with extremely low density and high R-value. It is made from a gel that has been dehydrated to remove almost all of the liquid. Aerogel is very expensive, but it is also very effective at insulating.
    Aerogel insulation
  • Phase change materials (PCMs): PCMs are materials that can absorb and release heat without changing their state. They are used in thermal storage applications, such as in solar thermal collectors and building insulation. PCMs can help to reduce energy consumption by storing heat during the day and releasing it at night.
    Phase change materials (PCMs) insulation
  • Mycelium insulation: Mycelium is the root-like structure of fungi. It can be used to create a lightweight, fire-resistant insulation material. Mycelium insulation is still in the development stage, but it has the potential to be a more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional insulation materials.
    Mycelium insulation
  • Nanofiber insulation: Nanofiber insulation is made from tiny fibers that have a very high surface area. This makes it very effective at trapping air, which is a good insulator. Nanofiber insulation is still in the development stage, but it has the potential to be a very efficient and lightweight insulation material.
    Nanofiber insulation
  • Biomass insulation: Biomass insulation is made from plant materials, such as wood chips, straw, and sawdust. It is a sustainable and renewable insulation material. Biomass insulation is not as effective as some other types of insulation, but it is a good option for those who are looking for an eco-friendly alternative.
    Biomass insulation

These are just a few of the new types of insulation that are being developed. As technology advances, we can expect to see even more innovative insulation materials in the future.

 

Barrier Insulation Offers Free Attic Insulation Quotes in Phoenix

Barrier Insulation Inc. is the premier provider of quality insulation in Phoenix. You can trust your insulation to the professionals at Barrier Insulation Inc. knowing your house will be optimized with the finest quality insulation in the marketplace. For all of your insulation needs call us today at 602-499-2922.

Whether you are building a new house, or just need to remove the old insulation and install a newer more energy efficient option Barrier Insulation is Phoenix’s first choice in home and commercial insulation. We proudly provide the valley’s more comprehensive insulation service that helps you stay more comfortable and save on energy. Click here to schedule on our website, or just give us a call at 602-499-2922.

Attic Insulation, R Value
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Attic Ventilation
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Signs Of Poor Attic Ventilation

A healthy, properly working attic is crucial to a healthy home. Keep an eye on these four signs of poor attic ventilation.

Poor Attic Ventilation Signs

How can you tell if your attic ventilation is not up to par? There are four obvious signs, all listed below.

Sign 1. Mold Or Mildew

Inside poorly ventilated attics, it’s no secret that condensation can accumulate on trusses and undersides of the roofing. The water will drip down onto the flooring or joists, causing mold, mildew or even rot to develop over time.

Sign 2. Extreme Heat In Attic

Because attics are not climate-controlled, they will get warmer than the rest of the home, especially during the summer. Properly ventilated attics should have the temperature mimicking the outdoor temperature. Poorly ventilated attics trap heating, warming up to a high of 150 degrees Fahrenheit. This extreme heat can be very tough on roofing materials.

Sign 3. Roofing Material Deterioration

Poorly ventilated attics can cause early degradation of your roof quite easily. When moisture accumulates in the attic and flashing, the end result will be damaging leaks. Mildew and mold can grow due to excessive moisture, as well. If you notice that the shingles are loose or falling off, this may be a sign of poor attic ventilation. Call a roofing inspector if you see any of these issues.

Sign 4. Ice Dams

Ice dams are big chunks of ice that gather on the edge of your roof during wintertime. As heat rises to the attic, snow will melt, causing water to run down to the eave. This is where the ice will form. A significant buildup of ice can undoubtedly result in roofing damage.

Attic Insulation Phoenix

Best Types Of Attic Insulation

Which insulation you choose will be based largely on a few key factors.  Your budget for installing insulation is one of these key factors.  Another consideration is how long you intend on staying in the home.  If you plan this house as your last move, then the added cost of installing premium insulation will pay you back for years to come.

If you are planning on moving soon you may still consider spray foam insulation as it will increase the overall value of the home.  Ultimately the question of which will be best for you, your home, and your budget is a conversation for you and your professional insulation contractor.

Batt Insulation

Batt insulation is commonly referred to as “batts” or “rolls”. This type utilizes a flexible blanket-like insulation that is best suited for easily accessible areas. Batts and rolls can be used in non-standard areas, so the material will have to be cut to size.

The blankets come in high, medium and standard-density constructions, made from fiberglass, rock wool and other similar materials. Batt insulation can be fitted quite easily to the specific areas, but it may be hard to fit in unusual or hard-to-access areas.

Blown-In Insulation

Blown in insulation is constructed of either fiberglass or cellulose that is blown into cavities in walls. This material is used to fill gaps in the insulation. Blown in insulation is ideal for attic spaces filled with nooks and crannies that are difficult to navigate through.

Cellulose blown in insulation is the most affordable option for home and business owners because it is made of recycled materials. Once it is installed, this insulation can last up to 25 years with very reliable performance overall.

Cellulose Insulation

Fiberglass and cellulose insulation are the two cheapest insulation types you can install in your home.  While fiberglass is much more common cellulose is still the second most popular insulation material in the country.

For customers who can’t afford the higher performance spray foam insulation these types of insulation offer the layer of insulated comfort homes need.

Fiberglass Insulation

Fiberglass insulation has been installed in homes for many decades.  It is comprised of extremely fine glass fibers which reinforce a pillow like plastic.

The fine glass is added to increase the overall strength of the insulation and help it resist sagging.  It usually comes in one of 3 types, loose fill, rolls, or batts.

Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation is sprayed on wet and it expands rapidly into gaps, cracks, and solidifies as a hard, thick foam.  This insulation type can be used to insulate the walls of new build and existing homes.  One of the best features of spray foam insulation is how well it conforms automatically to all of the odd shaped cavities and air leaks.

The R-value of spray foam depends on the chemical makeup as there are two variants, closed and open cell spray foam insulation.  Spray foam insulation does require a slightly greater investment, but it does offer superior performance.

Schedule Your Insulation Services Today!

602-499-2922
Get A Free Quote

Whether you are building a new house, or just need to remove the old insulation and install a newer more energy efficient option Barrier Insulation is Phoenix’s first choice in home and commercial insulation and solar services. We proudly provide the valley’s more comprehensive insulation service that helps you stay more comfortable and save on energy. Click here to schedule on our website, or just give us a call at 602-499-2922.

Attic Insulation
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How To Insulate A Crawl Space
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

How To Insulate A Crawl Space

Use our complete step-by-step guide below to properly insulate your crawl space.

Materials And Tools Needed

Have the following materials on hand prior to installation:

  • Construction adhesive.
  • Silicone caulk.
  • Expanded polystyrene foam board.
  • Latex adhesive for foam board.
  • Poly PVC tape.
  • Foam insulation.
  • Polyethylene plastic.
  • Double-sided butyl tape.

The following tools will be needed for this task:

  • Utility knife.
  • Caulking gun.
  • Flashlight.
  • Fine-toothed saw.
  • Rake and shovel.

Steps To Insulating A Crawl Space

Use this step-by-step guide to insulate your crawl space.

Step 1. Prevent Moisture From Entering Crawl Space

  • Evaluate the crawl space and locate any pooled water or moisture that is present.
  • Redirect downspouts that could be forcing water to collect alongside foundation walls.
  • Regrade soil banked up against the outside of the house with a shovel and rake.
  • Move the water away from the structure.

Step 2. Evaluate Interior Sources Of Moisture

  • Use a flashlight to look for water drippings around the underside of the house.
  • Check the pipes running through or within the joists.
  • Pay closer attention to areas that produce moisture, such as bathtubs and sinks.

Step 3. Seal Crawl Space Vents And Doors

  • Seal up any doors, vents or hatches that open into the crawl space from outside.
  • Insert extra-grade caulk into any cracks and holes.

Step 4. Seal Rim Joists And Sills

  • During daylight hours, turn off the flashlight and examine rim joists and sill areas for any outside light shining through.
  • Seal up any cracks with silicone caulk.
  • Use low-expansion foam insulation for larger cracks.

Step 5. Insulate Walls

  • Cut some rigid foam pieces to size with a saw.
  • Attach these pieces to the inside of the crawl space walls using a latex adhesive.
  • Install large sheets of foam.
  • Seal the seams between the boards using PVC tape.

Step 6. Lay Vapor Barrier On The Ground

  • Lay the vapor barrier across the entire ground of the crawl space.
  • Make cut-outs for every protrusion, including piers and posts.
  • Run the barrier up against said protrusions, sealing them tightly with butyl tape.
  • Seal seams between separate barrier sheets.

Step 7. Seal The Vapor Barrier

  • Run the vapor barrier about 12 inches up the newly insulated walls.
  • Tape the edges to the wall insulation.

Should I Remove Insulation From Crawl Space

Why Should You Insulate Your Crawl Space?

Insulating your crawl space will ultimately reduce your energy consumption. The air inside your crawl space will not affect your home’s temperature, resulting in huge energy savings over time. In fact, insulating your crawl space can save homeowners up to 15 percent on energy bills. You will also use less energy during any extreme heat or cold periods.

Insulated crawl space can undoubtedly save you money in the long-term. Homeowners will notice lower energy costs due to the conditioned air being restricted between the home’s walls. Clean the crawl space prior to installation if any mold or mildew is visible. Contact the professionals for this service!

While most homeowners worry about outdoor air quality, it really is the indoor quality that should be a main concern. Homes can typically have poorer air quality than outdoors. Crawl spaces allow for unfiltered air to enter the home. Insulating this area can reduce pollutants and improve overall air quality.

Crawl spaces are an easy and all-too-common access point for pests to enter your home. Pests love areas that are damp, but with insulation you can reduce the amount of places they’ll have to hide. Make sure you seal the gaps on the walls where rodents typically invade. Pests infestations are extremely stressful for homeowners, so make sure you take every step possible to avoid this situation.

Insulating crawl space can increase your home’s overall value. Most buyers value crawl space for its energy-saving benefits. Insulation in the crawl space indicates that the home is well-maintained. This insulation can increase your home’s value by up to 10 percent.

Schedule Your Insulation Services Today!

602-499-2922
Get A Free Quote

Whether you are building a new house, or just need to remove the old insulation and install a newer more energy efficient option Barrier Insulation is Phoenix’s first choice in home and commercial insulation and solar services. We proudly provide the valley’s more comprehensive insulation service that helps you stay more comfortable and save on energy. Click here to schedule on our website, or just give us a call at 602-499-2922.

Attic Insulation
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Attic Insulation Phoenix
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

What Is The Best Type Of Attic Insulation?

If you’re searching “Attic Insulation” in Phoenix, we can help. Barrier Insulation offers the best attic insulation in Phoenix! Our team knows how to insulate attics the right way for your home. We install the best insulation for Arizona and proudly serve every city in the Phoenix Valley including: Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, Glendale, Gilbert, Tempe and more.

Barrier Insulation offers the best attic insulation service in the Phoenix Valley. We offer all the different types of attic insulation to fit every demand and every budget.  Insulating the attic is one of the most important areas of the home to insulate to reduce dependency on air conditioning and heating.  Read more about the types of attic insulation we offer.

Blown-In Attic Insulation

Blown In Attic InsulationOne of the better choices is blown in attic insulation. It is installed by techs that have a large hose and shoot the insulation into the attic. They have training to create an even, uniformly deep layer of insulation. This is done by using a large air driven machine that churns up the material into chunks and then blows them up the hose and into the attic.

For blown material you have two main choices. There is cellulose and fiberglass blown in material. Both have advantages and disadvantages. With similar R values they both insulate well and are approximately 3 -4 R per inch. Fiberglass insulation is produced primarily from old glass or sand. Cellulose blown in insulation is made from recycled newspapers.

Depending on your application blown in insulation might be your only insulator in your attic, or you might use it in conjunction with other insulators to get the best energy efficiency. Blown in attic insulation sits on the floor of your attic as an even layer and helps keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Batt Attic Insulation

Rolled Batt Attic InsulationBatt attic insulation is pretty straight forward to install as it is rolls of material typically lined with a paper backing. They are made from interweaving fibers that are long and have adhesive qualities. This means they stick to each other and stick together as a grouping. Batt insulation is made from two source materials, cotton and fiberglass. Cotton batts are made from recycled denim jeans. Fiberglass batts are typically made from sand or recycled glass that is processed into the insulating strands and fibers.

To install the batts they must be cut to fit each and every space they will be installed in. Even with the best of intentions there are tricky spots around corners, pipes, wires, junction boxes and other areas that end up having gaps. This means there are areas that simply are not insulated as well as other insulation options.

Spray Foam Attic Insulation

Spray Foam Attic InsulationOne of the most energy efficient types of attic insulation is spray foam. It comes in two types that have pros and cons. There is open and closed cell spray insulation. A larger percentage of homes were built with the HVAC and duct system in the attic of the home. This means that if your insulation is sitting on the floor of your attic, your system is having to work harder. Moving the “envelope”, or area of your home that is climate controlled, to the roofline can greatly increase your energy efficiency. Spray foam allows this envelop to be at the roofline, and helps fill in all the areas that batt insulation can struggle with.

Highly trained and skilled insulation technicians can spray the foam so there are no gaps or voids in the layer of insulation covering the attic ceiling. This means that the ducts carrying your hot and cold air to heat and cool your home are working in a more moderate climate. That translates into less energy being used to keep your home comfortable all year long.

Radiant Barrier Attic Insulation

Radiant barrier insulation provides an additional layer of protection to keep your attic and home more comfortable, and use less air conditioning and heating.  This type of insulation has the same goal of preventing heat from entering homes as traditional insulation but achieves the goal in a different way.  Instead of using thick layers of foam, loose insulation, or fiberglass batts it reflects the energy and heat with highly reflective surfaces.

It can be installed as a foil backed insulation board or it can be installed by spraying a highly reflective product onto the bottom of the roof decking in the attic.  Barrier insulation installs R-Max radiant barrier and HeatBloc Ultra spray radiant barrier.

The Best Attic Insulation

Clearly the best attic insulation really depends on your home and your needs. If you don’t have any ducts or HVAC system in your attic and you don’t plan to finish or use the attic space, you might consider one of the less costly insulation types. However if you have ducts in your attic and want to keep your home as energy efficient as possible using spray foam might be a more costly, but better long term investment. Having local attic insulation experts come to your home and help you develop an effective and budget friendly insulation plan for your home is the only way to get the best attic insulation for you individual needs.

How Much Does Attic Insulation Cost in Phoenix?

The average attic insulation installation cost in Phoenix is $915 according to HomeAdvisor. Depending on the price of the materials used for insulation costs range between $665-$1,165 in 2019.

Read more about attic insulation costs.

Barrier Insulation Offers Free Attic Insulation Quotes in Phoenix

Barrier Insulation Inc. is the premier provider of quality insulation in Phoenix. You can trust your insulation to the professionals at Barrier Insulation Inc. knowing your house will be optimized with the finest quality insulation in the marketplace. For all of your insulation needs call us today at 602-499-2922.

Whether you are building a new house, or just need to remove the old insulation and install a newer more energy efficient option Barrier Insulation is Phoenix’s first choice in home and commercial insulation. We proudly provide the valley’s more comprehensive insulation service that helps you stay more comfortable and save on energy. Click here to schedule on our website, or just give us a call at 602-499-2922.

Attic Insulation
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Attic Insulation Removal Costs
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Attic Insulation Removal Cost 2023

The average cost of attic insulation removal is $2,500. The cost range for attic insulation removal is around $1,000 while larger or more involved jobs with extra personal safety protection can cost $4,000 or more.  The cost for insulation removal depends on how big an attic you have and how much insulation is installed.  Call us to receive a quote for insulation removal in your attic or home in the Phoenix Valley.

The first step is finding out how much insulation removal will cost is to see if you have any asbestos in your attic or home.  Professionals can test your insulation to check for asbestos or vermiculite, which almost always has some level of asbestos.  Asbestos is a highly dangerous insulation type that was installed in homes built in the 1970’s.  It will cost more to remove your insulation if you have asbestos but it will ensure that your home is safer and won’t cause health problems.

602-499-2922
Get A Free Quote

Do I Need Insulation Removal?

Attic insulation removal is one of the most common places homeowners need.  While exterior walls need to have quality insulation the attic is the primary barrier from heat in your home during the summer.  If you have old blown in insulation, fiberglass insulation, damaged, or old insulation it needs to be removed and replaced.  We will professionally and carefully remove your old attic insulation and offer you today’s best attic insulation options.  From the high performance spray foam insulation option to radiant barriers and cellulose insulation we will find the best fit for your needs and budget.

Insulation Removal Due to Breakdown

Given the extreme heat we experience here in Phoenix, our roofing and insulation materials are put to the test. Given time, the materials wear down and aren’t as effective as they once were. Broken down insulation needs to be first removed and then replaced.

Insulation Removal Due to Sagging or Collapsed Ceilings

There are times, due to different reasons, that the structure of the building itself might begin to sag or entirely collapse. Clearly, in this situation, the insulation needs to be removed and replaced.

Insulation Removal Due to Smoke Damage

If you’ve had a fire in your home, the smoke from it can go into your attic and permeate your insulation with that terrible smoky odor. No one needs a reminder of such a traumatic event.

Insulation Removal for Upgraded Modern Insulation

If you’ve got old insulation or just a less effective insulation type, it can be removed and a more energy saving modern insulation solution can be installed in your attic and walls.

Insulation Removal Due to Infestation Contamination

Another risk is the possibility of animal infestation. Things like rats, mice, birds and even raccoons can find their way into attics. In addition to chewing wires, they leave their excrement and urine in the attic and in the insulation. Leaving insulation that has been contaminated with either mold or excrement/urine can cause respiratory and other serious problems.  We safely and completely remove this ruined insulation to make way for improved indoor air quality, new effective insulation in your home.

Insulation Removal Due to Water Damage

If your roof has been damaged by a storm, or a branch has fallen on it, water can be getting in. When that water sits on your insulation it causes mold. If that mold is left unattended it causes air quality problems and can cause serious health problems. Stachybotrys is a type of mold that can exist in attics and on insulation. This mold is very common according to the CDC and can cause a variety of conditions, from mild eye and lung irritation to more serious conditions like fever and shortness of breath.

Schedule Your Insulation Services Today!

602-499-2922
Get A Free Quote

Whether you are building a new house, or just need to remove the old insulation and install a newer more energy efficient option Barrier Insulation is Phoenix’s first choice in home and commercial insulation. We proudly provide the valley’s more comprehensive insulation service that helps you stay more comfortable and save on energy. Click here to schedule on our website, or just give us a call at 602-499-2922.

Attic Insulation
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What Is The Best Roof Insulation
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

How Much Insulation Do I Need In My Attic?

Once you have air-sealed your attic, it’s time to check your insulation levels and see if more insulation is needed. The attic is seen as the easiest place to add insulation, which improves the overall energy efficiency of the home.

602-499-2922
Get A Free Quote

Do I Have Enough Insulation?

Regardless of the kind of insulation is in your attic, one way to visually check the area’s needs is to look across the span of the attic. If the insulation level is barely below your floor joists, it’s time to add more insulation. If you cannot see the floor joists due to the insulation being above them, then it is not necessary to add insulation at this time.

It’s crucial for the insulation to be evenly distributed with zero low spots. If your attic insulation fully covers the joists and it is distributed evenly, then you have enough insulation, according to EnergyStar.

How Much Insulation Should I Add?

Insulation levels are specifically outlined by R-Value. This is a measurement of the insulation’s ability to resist heat flow. This means the higher the R-Value, the better the thermal performance of the specified insulation. The recommended R-Value level for the majority of attics is to insulate R-38 or between 10-14 inches, depending on type of insulation.

Best Types Of Insulation

Which insulation you choose will be based largely on a few key factors.  Your budget for installing insulation is one of these key factors.  Another consideration is how long you intend on staying in the home.  If you plan this house as your last move, then the added cost of installing premium insulation will pay you back for years to come.

If you are planning on moving soon you may still consider spray foam insulation as it will increase the overall value of the home.  Ultimately the question of which will be best for you, your home, and your budget is a conversation for you and your professional insulation contractor.

Batt Insulation

Batt insulation is commonly referred to as “batts” or “rolls”. This type utilizes a flexible blanket-like insulation that is best suited for easily accessible areas. Batts and rolls can be used in non-standard areas, so the material will have to be cut to size.

The blankets come in high, medium and standard-density constructions, made from fiberglass, rock wool and other similar materials. Batt insulation can be fitted quite easily to the specific areas, but it may be hard to fit in unusual or hard-to-access areas.

Blown-In Insulation

Blown in insulation is constructed of either fiberglass or cellulose that is blown into cavities in walls. This material is used to fill gaps in the insulation. Blown in insulation is ideal for attic spaces filled with nooks and crannies that are difficult to navigate through.

Cellulose blown in insulation is the most affordable option for home and business owners because it is made of recycled materials. Once it is installed, this insulation can last up to 25 years with very reliable performance overall.

Cellulose Insulation

Fiberglass and cellulose insulation are the two cheapest insulation types you can install in your home.  While fiberglass is much more common cellulose is still the second most popular insulation material in the country.

For customers who can’t afford the higher performance spray foam insulation these types of insulation offer the layer of insulated comfort homes need.

Fiberglass Insulation

Fiberglass insulation has been installed in homes for many decades.  It is comprised of extremely fine glass fibers which reinforce a pillow like plastic.

The fine glass is added to increase the overall strength of the insulation and help it resist sagging.  It usually comes in one of 3 types, loose fill, rolls, or batts.

Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation is sprayed on wet and it expands rapidly into gaps, cracks, and solidifies as a hard, thick foam.  This insulation type can be used to insulate the walls of new build and existing homes.  One of the best features of spray foam insulation is how well it conforms automatically to all of the odd shaped cavities and air leaks.

The R-value of spray foam depends on the chemical makeup as there are two variants, closed and open cell spray foam insulation.  Spray foam insulation does require a slightly greater investment, but it does offer superior performance.

Schedule Your Insulation Services Today!

602-499-2922
Get A Free Quote

Whether you are building a new house, or just need to remove the old insulation and install a newer more energy efficient option Barrier Insulation is Phoenix’s first choice in home and commercial insulation. We proudly provide the valley’s more comprehensive insulation service that helps you stay more comfortable and save on energy. Click here to schedule on our website, or just give us a call at 602-499-2922.

Attic Insulation
0
Benefits of Insulating Your Attic
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

The Benefits of Insulating your Attic

Your attic does a lot more for your home than simply storing your belongings. Attics are designed for providing a protective barrier for your house from cold, heat and humidity. But for the top part of your home to fulfill its job, you need to have your attic properly insulated.

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As reported by NAIMA, ninety percent of single-family homes in the United States are less than satisfactorily insulated. When your homes attic is not insulated or has not been insulated for a while, it could jeopardize your home’s safety, efficiency and comfort. What are the benefits of having your attic insulated? Keep reading to learn more.

Lower Utility Bills

Heating and cooling comprise of fifty to seventy percent of the energy consumed in the average US home. And when your home is un-insulated or less than satisfactorily insulated, you’ll spend extra money attempting to keep pleasant temperatures. How much are you going to save by having your attic insulated? As reported by the EPA, you could save an average of fifteen percent on heating and cooling expenses (or a ballpark of eleven percent on total energy costs) by having the home air sealed and insulating it’s attics, floors and tight places. The money you are going to save could depend on several factors, including your family’s way of life, the design of your home, and your kind of heating system, but you could expect substantial energy savings which translates to substantial dollar savings. As a matter of fact, the average homeowner is able to save about $780 each year.

Safer Home Structure

Insulating your attic allows you to prevent progressive damage to your home, as the result of heat and moisture. Insulation hinders water vapor from trickling in and eating away at your walls. It also decreases heat build-up in your attic, in which could cause your roof shingles to expand and crack or cause the plywood on your decking to weaken. It stops ice dams from developing when snow melt refreezes on the roof’s edge. Additionally, insulating your attic is a way to prevent mold growth that flourishes in moist, cooler areas. Insulation prevents these problems from happening by reducing the effects of condensation.

Better Indoor Air Quality

Outside pollutants like dust, dirt, mold, mildew and possibly worse can get inside your home through air leaks as the result of poor insulation. As time goes on, the build-up of these airborne contaminants can seriously jeopardize your indoor air quality. Insulating your attic stops these contaminants from spreading throughout the home, enabling your family to breathe easier and appreciate a cleaner indoor setting. Additionally, installing newer insulation can eliminate pollutants that possibly may have grown or lived on the old insulation.

Better Indoor Comfort

Heat naturally flows from warmer areas to cooler areas. And even in homes that are equipped with current HVAC systems may cause serious temperature variations when less than satisfactorily insulated. Meaning that the home can get hotter or colder faster when the outside temperature changes.  Rooms on the second story could differ in temperature considerably from those the first floors. A temperature variance of ten to fifteen degree between floors in your home is a clear indication your home has insufficient insulation. A lot of bedrooms in homes in the US are located on upper floors, so installing insulation is a perfect way to guarantee comfort at night and in the early morning, when the temperature is at it’s lowest.

Less HVAC Depreciation

Older homes are inclined to be drafty, and inadequate insulation could cause your heating and cooling systems to work overtime to maintain an even temperature. These temperature fluctuations can become even more excessive in homes in which ductwork goes through the attic. Adequate attic insulation hinders cooler air from remaining at the lower floors whereas heat rises, resulting in less depreciation on your HVAC unit. With reduced heat gain in the summer and reduced heat loss during winter, you’ll decrease your family’s dependence on your home’s HVAC system while maintaining pleasant indoor temperatures all year long.

Schedule Your Insulation Services Today!

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Whether you are building a new house, or just need to remove the old insulation and install a newer more energy efficient option Barrier Insulation is Phoenix’s first choice in home and commercial insulation. We proudly provide the valley’s more comprehensive insulation service that helps you stay more comfortable and save on energy. Click here to schedule on our website, or just give us a call at 602-499-2922.

Attic Insulation, Blown-In Insulation
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Attic Insulation Phoenix
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Written by Barrier Insulation

Attic Insulation

If you’re searching “Attic Insulation” in Phoenix, we can help. Barrier Insulation offers the best attic insulation in Phoenix! Our team knows how to insulate attics the right way for your home. We install the best insulation for Arizona and proudly serve every city in the Phoenix Valley including: Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, Glendale, Gilbert, Tempe and more.

Barrier Insulation offers the best attic insulation service in the Phoenix Valley. We offer all the different types of attic insulation to fit every demand and every budget.  Insulating the attic is one of the most important areas of the home to insulate to reduce dependency on air conditioning and heating.  Read more about the types of attic insulation we offer.

Blown-In Attic Insulation

Blown In Attic InsulationOne of the better choices is blown in attic insulation. It is installed by techs that have a large hose and shoot the insulation into the attic. They have training to create an even, uniformly deep layer of insulation. This is done by using a large air driven machine that churns up the material into chunks and then blows them up the hose and into the attic.

For blown material you have two main choices. There is cellulose and fiberglass blown in material. Both have advantages and disadvantages. With similar R values they both insulate well and are approximately 3 -4 R per inch. Fiberglass insulation is produced primarily from old glass or sand. Cellulose blown in insulation is made from recycled newspapers.

Depending on your application blown in insulation might be your only insulator in your attic, or you might use it in conjunction with other insulators to get the best energy efficiency. Blown in attic insulation sits on the floor of your attic as an even layer and helps keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Batt Attic Insulation

Rolled Batt Attic InsulationBatt attic insulation is pretty straight forward to install as it is rolls of material typically lined with a paper backing. They are made from interweaving fibers that are long and have adhesive qualities. This means they stick to each other and stick together as a grouping. Batt insulation is made from two source materials, cotton and fiberglass. Cotton batts are made from recycled denim jeans. Fiberglass batts are typically made from sand or recycled glass that is processed into the insulating strands and fibers.

To install the batts they must be cut to fit each and every space they will be installed in. Even with the best of intentions there are tricky spots around corners, pipes, wires, junction boxes and other areas that end up having gaps. This means there are areas that simply are not insulated as well as other insulation options.

Spray Foam Attic Insulation

Spray Foam Attic InsulationOne of the most energy efficient types of attic insulation is spray foam. It comes in two types that have pros and cons. There is open and closed cell spray insulation. A larger percentage of homes were built with the HVAC and duct system in the attic of the home. This means that if your insulation is sitting on the floor of your attic, your system is having to work harder. Moving the “envelope”, or area of your home that is climate controlled, to the roofline can greatly increase your energy efficiency. Spray foam allows this envelop to be at the roofline, and helps fill in all the areas that batt insulation can struggle with.

Highly trained and skilled insulation technicians can spray the foam so there are no gaps or voids in the layer of insulation covering the attic ceiling. This means that the ducts carrying your hot and cold air to heat and cool your home are working in a more moderate climate. That translates into less energy being used to keep your home comfortable all year long.

Radiant Barrier Attic Insulation

Radiant barrier insulation provides an additional layer of protection to keep your attic and home more comfortable, and use less air conditioning and heating.  This type of insulation has the same goal of preventing heat from entering homes as traditional insulation but achieves the goal in a different way.  Instead of using thick layers of foam, loose insulation, or fiberglass batts it reflects the energy and heat with highly reflective surfaces.

It can be installed as a foil backed insulation board or it can be installed by spraying a highly reflective product onto the bottom of the roof decking in the attic.  Barrier insulation installs R-Max radiant barrier and HeatBloc Ultra spray radiant barrier.

The Best Attic Insulation

Clearly the best attic insulation really depends on your home and your needs. If you don’t have any ducts or HVAC system in your attic and you don’t plan to finish or use the attic space, you might consider one of the less costly insulation types. However if you have ducts in your attic and want to keep your home as energy efficient as possible using spray foam might be a more costly, but better long term investment. Having local attic insulation experts come to your home and help you develop an effective and budget friendly insulation plan for your home is the only way to get the best attic insulation for you individual needs.

How Much Does Attic Insulation Cost in Phoenix?

The average attic insulation installation cost in Phoenix is $915 according to HomeAdvisor. Depending on the price of the materials used for insulation costs range between $665-$1,165 in 2019.

Read more about attic insulation costs.

Barrier Insulation Offers Free Attic Insulation Quotes in Phoenix

Barrier Insulation Inc. is the premier provider of quality insulation in Phoenix. You can trust your insulation to the professionals at Barrier Insulation Inc. knowing your house will be optimized with the finest quality insulation in the marketplace. For all of your insulation needs call us today at 602-499-2922.

Whether you are building a new house, or just need to remove the old insulation and install a newer more energy efficient option Barrier Insulation is Phoenix’s first choice in home and commercial insulation. We proudly provide the valley’s more comprehensive insulation service that helps you stay more comfortable and save on energy. Click here to schedule on our website, or just give us a call at 602-499-2922.

Attic Insulation, Home Insulation, Spray Foam Insulation
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