Rigid foam insulation is generally used in many homes to pad foundations, slabs and other roofing and ceilings. Among other types of insulation, it is said to be one of the most versatile and efficient. Nevertheless, not all rigid foam insulations are the same. Not necessarily that one is better than the other; it’s just that one type is more suitable for one use and another for a different use.

Polystyrene

Polystyrene rigid foam insulation is best for walls and attics. It’s relatively more expensive than other rigid foam insulations. But it’s effective for the uses enumerated above especially when used in attics. Many prefer using them because with deep heat and pressure this type can easily be formed into the shape of the area it needs to insulate. Of course, it is also a worthy investment since it is water resistant and it is known to have compressive strength.

Polyurethane

Polyurethane rigid foam insulation is also known as beadboards. This type basically expands in the area where it is to be installed so it can effectively insulate the area. Because it’s cost effective, this type is more popular. But since it’s relatively more porous it is prone to crumbling.

Polyisocyanurate

Polyisocyanurate rigid foam insulation is the most eco-friendly choice. This type of insulation is more expensive though. But instead of using blowing agents that are known to deplete the ozone layer, water is used. Because of it water absorption features, it’s not ideal for below grade applications. But nevertheless, with its foil facing it’s most appropriate for exterior drainage planes. It is also ideal for areas where strength and durability are required. It is also a good insulation for places where temperatures changes extremely from cold to hot. It is also a perfect insulation from moisture especially when covered with aluminum foil facing. This type of insulation is great as it does not easily ignite. Nevertheless, when ignited it does keep a steady flame. That is why it is always a requirement to use flame resistant materials with it.

Other Considerations

Rigid foam insulation can generally be bought from lumberyards. They come in sheets in varying thickness so you should get the one that’s most suited for your need. One aspect you should look into when buying this type of insulation is its ability to withstand moisture and its ability to absorb it. One problem with insulation is formation of molds. So, it is recommended that you also get a vapor diffuser retarder. Bugs and critters may also take a liking to your insulation as their nesting area. So to prevent this from happening, you need to treat your insulation with insecticide. It would also be safer to protect your insulation with flame resistant materials. While these materials can serve as efficient insulation, it will only be so when installed properly. Safety precautions also must be taken to eliminate any dangers. Just like any installation in your home, it is best when done by professionals. Even if this means paying more, it also means getting proper insulation too. This would then lead to more savings later on.

Crawl space insulation is basically installed to keep your home warmer especially during winter. When you effectively to do so, you will in turn be able to save money on heating expenses. While installing this type of insulation is not difficult, you should first study the proper way of doing to be efficient.

Where to Install Crawl Space Insulation

You can install crawl space insulation in two different ways. One, you can install it on the exterior walls of your space. Alternatively, you can also do it on the crawl space ceiling under the flooring of your home. One important aspect to consider is whether your space is ventilated as only unventilated crawl spaces should be insulated.

In most instances, it is advised that you install crawl space insulation on the exterior walls. And the recommended material for this type of installation is fiberglass batt. When doing this kind of installation it’s essential that the insulation is fitted from the top to the ground to a few feet under. To fasten the insulation, you need to get a wood strip and attach it to wall. And then you can simply attach the insulation to the wood strip that is attached to the wall. Of course, you could simply just staple the insulation at the top of the wooded strip and allow it to drape into the whole area. However, your crawl space is susceptive to mildew and molds. That is why you need to put a vapor barrier when you install the insulation into the exterior walls too. This will help block the moisture that’s trying to seep into your crawl space. This is important as exterior walls should only be insulated if you are sure it will remain dry year in and year out. This type of insulation should also be done in areas that are not ventilated to the outside. If there is ventilation, the vents should be blocked.

Alternatively, crawl space insulation is installed under the floor when the place is ventilated. If you are following this option, make sure that you also insulate the water pipes and ducts. Otherwise, your water pipes and ducts could burst come winter. For this installation you can use unfaced batt or you can also use fiberglass that has a foiled vapor barrier if moisture is a concern. If you use reflective materials, they can also be more effective in keeping the floor warmer especially during winter.

Other Factors to Consider

Another factor to be considered is the climate in your area. Insulation products are generally rated according their efficiency in terms of flow resistance and the rating is usually indicated by an R value. Depending of your geographical location, there would be an R value of crawl space insulation minimum requirement. Of course, it would be better to install beyond the minimum requirement for a more efficient insulation if the budget allows.

Of course, building codes need to be considered as well as the direction your home faces too. If you are not sure about the building codes, it would be safer to consult your local building office or a contractor to ensure that you are installing the most appropriate crawl space insulation.

Maintaining a certain temperature inside the house is important to ensure that you and your family are comfortable all the time. Your home should not be too cold or too hot if you want to be comfy and relaxed there. But with the heat and the cold air entering your home, your home can become hot or cold depending on the season. At least, this will be so without increasing the heating or the air conditioning in your home. There is a convenient solution to this problem though. If you invest on foam pipe insulation, leaks will be blocked and you can safely maintain comfortable temperatures in your home.

Solve Your Leak Problems

Having flat roofs often leads to leak problems later on. This is a big problem as water and moisture penetrating into your home will not only damage your home but including what’s inside of it as well. Of course, you can always replace the roofing to stop the leaking. But then you can also more conveniently apply spray foam pipe insulation instead. This technology has been used in roofing materials for decades now so it’s really a proven method. Of course, this method is preferred because of its insulation features and its seamless nature.

Other Protective Features

What’s good with using foam pipe insulation is it usually comes with a protective covering. You can use urethane, silicone or acrylic so aside from the insulation, the covering makes it fire resistant, waterproof and UV protected. As a result, the insulation and the covering even provide added protection against corrosion and damage.

Long Lasting Insulation and Savings

While spray foam pipe insulation may cost a bit more than other types of insulation, it is a very worthy investment because of the protection it provides to your home and to your belongings. Spray foam will adhere to most surfaces and it will expand fully into the pipes and fittings. What’s more is that this type of insulation usually lasts up to 25 years so you are relatively safe from leaks for this long. While you have tight insulation in your home, heat and cold air will not be able to seep into the house. This means savings for you too. That’s because you won’t have to turn up your air conditioning during the hot season. You don’t have to increase the heat that much during winter either. With less energy escaping from your homes, this type of insulation can be as effective as giving you savings of at least 30% in electric bills. Again, of course, what makes this type of insulation more effective is the fact that it can be used in virtually any cracks and holes. With the huge savings you will incur by using foam insulation, it is truly a worthy investment. You would be able to recover your installation expenses from your savings in no time. You would even be better off in the long run. Of course, with all the environmental problems experienced today saving electricity when you can really is very important.