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Home Construction: Three Insulation Options for Your Residential Structure

Proper insulation is essential for residential structures, so you must consider this aspect when building your house. This critical element will provide protection against extreme temperatures. There are different forms of insulation to consider purchasing and installing in your home. Here is a short comparison between the most popular options to help you make the right choice.

Insulation blankets

Insulation blankets are popular in home construction because they are relatively compact and stable. Moreover, the products are easy to install, particularly for DIY enthusiasts. Insulation blankets are usually sold in the form of rolls and batts of different sizes. These are designed and manufactured for easy fitting between beams, joists and wall studs. If you choose this insulation option, you can use the acquired products in unfinished walls, ceilings, and floors.

Note that insulation blankets are manufactured using different types of materials; therefore, you can select the most appropriate based on your budget and preference. Fiberglass and mineral wool products are the most popular with homeowners because they are durable and have excellent thermal resistivity. However, if you are concerned about allergic reactions, you can choose alternatives made from natural fibers or even plastic.

Foam boards

Foam boards are also known as rigid foam, and they are manufactured using expanded plastic materials. The most popular materials used in making the foam are polystyrene, polyethylene and polyisocyanurate. You can choose the right match for your home by comparing their performance and cost. The greatest advantage attached to choosing this type of insulating product is its ability to provide high insulating performance with relatively little thickness. Foam boards can be installed in all walls, floors and ceilings, but you should ensure that proper precautions are taken for optimal performance.

When using this insulation for interior applications, you should make certain that the foam is concealed by a fire-rated material such as gypsum. For exterior applications, the insulation should be covered with weatherboard to prevent deterioration due to exposure to water.

Loose-fill insulation

If you want to add insulation to finished or irregularly-shaped part of your residential structure, you should consider using loose-fill insulation. This type of product is manufactured using cellulose, mineral wool and fiberglass in fibrous or particle form. The material is applied by blowing the fibers into structural cavities using specialized equipment. Loose-fill insulation is useful in areas where rigid options cannot be used.

Contact a professional insulation contractor for a comprehensive guide on the ideal option for your new house before making a decision.


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