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Here in northern New Jersey, our climate varies starkly between a record summer high of 104 degrees, and a record winter low of -26. One thing remains constant, though: the need for home insulation.

Heat Transference

It’s a widely known fact that heat rises, but also attempts to equalize itself by flowing toward colder spaces. In terms of our homes, this means that during the heating season the warmth we’ve invested in will try to escape to the cooler outdoors. In the summer, external heat attempts to move inward, undermining the money spent on air conditioning.

Of the several forms of insulation available, which is the best?

Types of Insulation

There are four main types of insulation available to homeowners:

  • Rigid foam insulation – large panels, best used in basement and crawl space walls due to moisture and mold resistance
  • Tru-Soft cellulose insulation – recycled newspaper (treated to inhibit combustibility), best used where blown-in installation is mandated (attics, some wall and floor cavities)
  • Spray Polyurethane Foam (fast expanding) – a two-part, closed-cell spray foam used in attics and basements of unfinished buildings
  • Injection foam (low rise formula) – also a two-part resin, best used in enclosed spaces such as wall cavities and cathedral ceilings in established buildings where drywall is already in place

Applications

All four types of insulation have their place, so there is no single best type of insulation for different homes. There are, however, best types for different projects. Blown-in is most often used to upgrade existing insulation in loft voids, where its light weight is well-suited to resting on the tops of ceiling surfaces, between joists. Spray foam has better flow and fill characteristics, and expands when injected to fill even the tiniest air gaps.

Both systems require specialist knowledge and equipment for installation, and your contractor can also advise on the best type to use.

All across the Basking Ridge, Long Valley, Montville and Oak Ridge region, your insulation experts are Pipe Works Services. Use our Contact Us facility to arrange a free in-home consultation, and learn more about which is the best type of insulation for your needs.

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