Recommended R Values For Wall Insulation
The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation.
Recommended r values for wall insulation. Higher r value numbers mean that the insulating material resists the cold or heat from the outside better. See the department of energy s doe ranges for recommended levels of insulation below. While wall insulation is limited by the width of the studs different materials provide higher or lower r values. R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it.
Insulation level are specified by r value. The following 2008 department of energy zone recommendations are based on comparing estimated future energy savings to the current cost of installing insulation. Department of energy r value recommendations for new and existing homes. For example if you have a type of insulation that has an r value of r 5 per inch of thickness you will need a depth of 6 inches of this insulation installed your attic to reach r 30 if you live in zones 2 or 3.
Thickness density and type of materials are some factors that contribute to. Achieving greater r values in exterior walls. The r refers to absolute thermal resistance. 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.
The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and. These r values are a sum meaning this should be the total r value once you add up the entire depth of insulation. Recommended home insulation r values. Note from this.
Other considerations may include indoor air quality impacts life cycle costs recycled content embodied energy and ease of installation especially if you plan to do the. You can achieve better thermal performance in your attic by adding an additional layer of insulation. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation.