Proper Roof Insulation

Proper insulation is the best way to maximize comfort and minimize energy bills.

Proper roof insulation.

Standard fiberglass insulation has an r value of about 3 5 per inch of thickness fig. This provides an insulating value of r 11 for 2 4 walls and r 19 for 2 6 walls. The most proper insulation level to use on ceilings are r 30 batts that are as thick as r 25 batts but fit into a 2x10 framing. Staple plastic or foam baffles to the roof sheathing near the eaves to keep the material away.

You put a lot into keeping your home running. As a homeowner it is important that you review the soffit areas of the home for soffit vents. Typical recommendations for exterior walls are r 13 to r 23 while r 30 r 38 and r 49 are common for ceilings and attic spaces. An important part of installing any system of ventilation into your roof system is to make sure that there is a point of entry and a point of exit for airflow.

Insulation puts the money back in your pocket by protecting your home from the elements and lowering energy costs. A properly performing roof takes more than just shingles. The airflow from the soffits to the ridge vent keeps the roof cool and prevents ice dams and the material will block that flow. In cold climates snow can enter the soffit and ridge vents melt and potentially cause rot.

Get the most out of your home with proper roof insulation. Your roof works as a system proper attic insulation and a properly ventilated roof work together to keep your home cooler and more energy. But there are small improvements many homeowners overlook that can make a huge difference. Sprayed against the underside of the roof deck it seals against air movement eliminating the need for a vapor barrier or ventilation.

The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. For the same reason insulation shouldn t touch the roof s underside. See the department of energy s doe ranges for recommended levels of insulation below. Insulation is rated according to its r value or resistance to heat loss.

The higher the r value the higher the insulating value. Insulation level are specified by r value. Beyond the decreased capacity for insulation when venting the roof deck venting the roof deck or the attic has some other drawbacks worth considering. R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it.

Similarly in coastal environments or in regions with lots of rain and wind moisture can be forced. The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and locations in the home.