They are Definitely Not the Same: The Different Types of Insulation and Their Pros and Cons:
According to studies and the Department of Energy, homeowners can save money on their energy consumption and maintain their homes’ comfort with properly installed home insulation. However, it is important to note that different thermal insulation materials have different elemental advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Different Types of Insulation:
At Synergy, we want homeowners to find the best type of insulation that suits their needs. Below is a chart that breaks down the pros and cons of each type of insulation.
| Types of Insulation | Insulation Sub-Types | R-Value | Insulation Types and Cost | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Batting Insulation/ Blanket Insulation | Fiberglass Batting Insulation | 3 – 4 per inch | 30 cents/ sq.ft. | – readily available – easy to transport and install – inexpensive | – itchy to install insulation – must be cut to fit crevices |
| Rockwool Batting Insulation | 4 – 5 per inch | 60 cents/ sq. ft. | – easy to transport and install -not itchy to install insulation -fire resistant | – may retain moisture – mold growth- prone – not always available – cut-to-fit | |
| Cotton Batting Insulation | 3.5 – 4 per inch | 90 cents/ sq.ft. | – no-itch installation – easy to handle, transport, and cut – has fire retardant properties – deters insect burying | – pricier – not always available | |
| Loose Fill Insulation/ Blow in Insulation | Fiberglass Loose Fill Insulation | 2.2 – 2.7 per inch | 30 cents/cu.ft. | – light weight – prevents cold spots – fits crevices well | – may lose effectiveness in colder temperatures – needs blanket insulation on top -installation requires special equipment |
| Cellulose Loose Fill Insulation | 3.2 – 3.8 per inch | 31 cents/ cu.ft. | – effective regardless of temperature – performs better in cold temperatures | – too heavy as attic insulation – may not be applicable for dry walls and framing less than 5/8” and 16” – can lose effectiveness overtime | |
| Structural Insulated Panels/ Rigid Insulation/ Foam Board Insulation | Polystyrene Foam Board Insulation | 3.8 – 5 per inch | $6/ 1” 4 x 8 ft. board to $15/ 1” 4 x 8 ft. board | – light – easy to install – inexpensive – sturdy – effectively blocks moisture | – has to be installed in new walls, ceilings, and attics – must be cut to fit -low r value – insect-prone – insecticide treatment needed |
| Polyisocyanurate Foam Board Insulation | 5.6 – 7.7 per inch | $22/ 1” 4 x 8 ft. board | – light – easy to install – very high r value – has moisture barrier | – pricey – cut-to-fit | |
| Spray Foam Insulation | Open Cell Spray Foam Insulation | 3.5 – 3.6 per inch | $1 to $1.20/ sq. ft. | – high r value – prevents weatherizing – prevents air leaks -fits crevices well – stops air movement | – does not block moisture – moisture barrier needed – heavy – installation requires specialequipment |
| Closed Cell Spray Foam insulation | 6 – 6.5 per inch | $1.75 to $3/ sq.ft. | – high r value – prevents weatherizing – prevents air leaks -fits crevices well – stops air and moisture | – pricier – heavier – installation requires specialequipment for installation |
Installing Home Insulation
Homeowners can always choose to install insulation themselves. However, improperly installed insulation materials may cost them more than they can save. When it comes to installing insulation, it is better to rely on the help of an experienced and trustworthy insulation contractor or insulation company.
