Sedalia Colorado Real Estate

The “R” value on home insulation became trendy because of the electricity crisis in the 1990s to give us some measurement of house insulation. Resistance to heat loss is denoted by “R” . Theoretically, the higher the “R” value, the better the quality of insulation. The main point here is that the “R” value is derived from the amount of heat loss by conduction but a house can lose heat in other ways such as convection and radiation.

Though materials such as cellulose prevent heat loss in all four situations, the most popular material is Fiberglass which is only effective in preventing heat loss by conduction. Some newer insulating materials have better performance when it comes to controlling the spread of fire and of mold and insects and providing soundproofing. In analyzing the insulation, you must keep in mind that the actual performance may not be in line with the “R” values because of the heat loss caused by gaps and seams. This is why many homeowners looking for the maximum energy efficiency use spray insulation and carry out air-sealing tests.

The Recommended “R” or resistance values applicable will depend on the area of the residence which is being insulated and the temperature zone of your location. To give you an example,Recommended “R” or resistance values for attics in the United States can range from the southernmost areas(where it is R 22) to a range of R39 to R49 for new construction in most of the country. When you consider walls, the recommended values will differ from a value of R. 28 for cold climates to R 11 in the South. In the case of basements, the range is R 4 to R 15 for the exterior and R 11 for the interior. Existing houses may not be able to accommodate these insulation thicknesses but you would get a general idea of the range of R. Values for different parts of the house and what standards new home construction is now using.

You should definitely consider getting the highest R. value insulation that you can afford because this would mean that you will save considerably on your electricity bills. Besides “R” value, you need to consider air sealing, especially if you live in windy areas like mountainous and hilly terrain or open water areas. The maximum heat loss occurs in your attic and hot air rises in the home and you should concentrate your expenditure on the highest R. value insulation for your attic. This is definitely the case withBoulder Colorado or Louisville Colorado real estate. Longmont Homes too! If you live in Conifer Colorado, it’s even more important. You may want to look at cellulose insulation products that of a much better insulating qualities while the walls in an existing residence can be given a higher R. Value by insulation blown in from the attic. Even houses in warm climates need high-quality insulation to keep out the heat. Insulation loses R. Value over a period of time in a number of ways especially when it gets damp so, as part of your efforts to make your house electricity efficient, attend to rules and foundation leaks.

If you feel you need professional advice, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals to advise you on our values in your home and the possibilities of air sealing. You may possibly get tax credits for your expenditure in addition to the asset on your electricity bills.

This article was provided by AHF – your Colorado real estate experts.