The type of insulation you use to upgrade your attic depends on several factors, including your budget and energy goals. Your home’s age and climate also affect your insulation R-value needs, as different regions require higher and lower R-values. It is important to have a professional inspect your attic and walls to ensure you have enough insulation and to fix any roof leaks or rotted rafters before adding new insulation.

The most common choice is fiberglass batt insulation in Raleigh NC, which comes in widths suited to standard spacing between wall studs and attic joists. It is relatively inexpensive, simple to install with gloves and a mask, and doesn’t need special tools. However, it must be laid precisely; gaps and compression reduce its effectiveness. Blown-in cellulose offers similar performance at a slightly higher cost and is better at sealing air leaks, but it requires a special blower and can be messy.

Attic Insulation Solutions for Different Home Types

Spray foam insulation is the most expensive, but it is highly effective at reducing air leaks and offers a high R-value per inch, making it ideal for extreme climates and long-term energy savings. It has the added benefit of being fire-retardant and reducing moisture absorption. It can be installed by professionals, but it is typically applied in small areas like attic doors and knee walls and used as a supplement to fiberglass or mineral wool.

Another option is structural insulated panels (SIPs), which are prefabricated building panels that combine insulation and structural support, and are typically constructed of OSB or other wood composite boards with a foam core. They can be a good choice for a major attic renovation in a newer home, or for a home being remodeled with a vaulted ceiling.

Palomo Insulation
Wendell Rd, Wendell NC 27591
‭(919) 901-3072‬