Homes that are constructed to the latest energy codes using the newest home insulation products, energy-efficient appliances, windows, doors, lighting and heating/air conditioning equipment will be more energy efficient. Without adequate insulation, many of the other energy-efficient components found in a home won't perform as intended. Insulation resists the flow of heat. By reducing heat flow, a properly insulated home uses less energy in winter for heating and less in the summer for cooling. Insulation is also an excellent sound absorber as well as an energy saver. When installed in the walls and ceilings, it can reduce the transmission of sound.
Heat always flows from warmer to cooler surfaces and the flow does not stop until the temperature in the two surfaces is equal.

R-value - what's it

"R" stands for resistance to heat flow. Insulation is identified and labeled by R-value. The higher the R-value, the more heat it can resist and vice versa. The r-values relate to the transfer of heat by means of conduction. House Insulation should be purchased based on its R-value, not thickness or weight.

Facts about R-value

If the R-value of the material is same they should insulate equally, whether they are thicker or thinner. The performance testing of R-value is done in the temperature of 70 F environments and there should be no air movement. The average recommended R-value of insulating material for basement insulation is R-12. The R-value in home insulation is lowered when there is any air or moisture leaks. The R-value for house insulation varies based on climate and temperature. One inch of insulation is equal to 30 inches of concrete. The different types of house insulation material have different R-value.

Types of R-value of home insulation

1. Clear wall R-values are the R-values of a wall with the studs. However, this does not include frames, windows and doors.
2. Centre of cavity R-values are the estimate of cavity space area between the studs.
3. Whole wall R-values- are the estimation of R-values for the wall system and the center of cavity system. Whole wall system takes into account the materials such as windows, doors and exterior corners. This system is a reliable method for determining R-values for insulation of walls.

When buying home insulation buy insulation based on its r-value not by its weight or thickness.