Wall Insulation R Values

Insulation level are specified by r value.

Wall insulation r values.

The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and. In the context of building and construction the r value is a measure of how well a two dimensional barrier such as a layer of insulation a window or a complete wall or ceiling resists the conductive flow of heat. Materials like azdel are fiberglass composites that are designed with thermal and sound insulation properties. The ideal attic insulation r value is different than the ideal wall insulation r value.

R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it. While wall insulation is limited by the width of the studs different materials provide higher or lower r values. You can achieve better thermal performance in your attic by adding an additional layer of insulation. Higher r value numbers mean that the insulating material resists the cold or heat from the outside better.

For instance if you have a material with an r value of 12 attached to another material with an r value of 3 then both materials combined have an r value of 15. R value is the temperature difference per unit of heat flux needed to sustain one unit of heat flux between the warmer surface and colder surface of a barrier under steady state. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. Try the r value calculator available through oak ridge.

You can mix the type and material of insulation too. In simple terms r values measure the effectiveness of insulation and a higher number represents more effective insulation. Along with knowing the r value of a particular insulation it is also important to calculate the r value of a total system. Recommended home insulation r values.

Insulation ratings can be improved by adding more layers of insulation. For example a wall with 3 fiberglass batting r value of 10 8 11 9 may have an overall r value of nearly 14 because of siding sheathing and drywall. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. The r refers to absolute thermal resistance.

Thickness density and type of materials are some factors that contribute to. With an r value three times better than wood azdel has a rating of roughly 4 5. With the bonding process the r value of the wall and the insulation work in concert to create the highest r value travel trailers. Fiberglass batts for standard 2 4 walls are now available in low medium and high density products that range from r 11 to r 15.

Make sure your home is properly insulated in all these locations.