Recommended Attic Insulation R Value
Typical recommendations for exterior walls are r 13 to r 23 while r 30 r 38 and r 49 are common for ceilings and attic spaces.
Recommended attic insulation r value. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat flow. The two distinct types of attic insulation are loose fill material also commonly known as blown in insulation and batting. The transfer of heat by contact with solid objects such as the ceiling walls or floor is called conduction see figure 1.
R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it. Your home s r value score will guide you toward the type of insulation you need. See the department of energy s doe ranges for recommended levels of insulation below. Lighter in weight than cellulose or mineral wool but it settles more than those materials so you ve got to put in a thicker layer to get the protection you need.
The recommended r value for attic insulation in ontario is between r 50 and r 60. Find your zone on the map and then use the above insulation r value chart to determine the level of insulation you need to properly insulate your attic walls floors and crawlspaces. Insulation levels are specified by r value. Recycled glass or sand that s melted and spun into fibers.
You will need a higher r value of insulation if you live in the northeast than if you live in southern california. In general an attic s r value should be between r 30 and r 49. The amount of insulation recommended for your home will vary depending on a number of factors. A good thermal barrier along a building envelope such as high r value insulation in the walls attic and raised floors as well as multi paned glass help to reduce conduction.
The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. The r value of the insulation for every inch of thickness depends on the type of insulation. Where you live different climates require different insulation r values. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation.
The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to r 38 or about 10 to 14 inches depending on insulation type. Insulation level are specified by r value. R values of common types of insulation. You can achieve better thermal performance in your attic by adding an additional layer of insulation.
The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and. Recommended home insulation r values. Achieving greater r values in exterior walls.