Homes in different parts of the country have different insulation requirements. Because our vast country has so many climates, homes in South-Central California will need different insulation than homes in Northern Maine. So, how do insulation companies determine how much insulation your home needs?
It comes down to a unit of measurement called the R-value. Different areas of the country have different recommended R-values, so let’s look at what the R-value is and how it can help you determine the best insulation for your home in South-Central California.
What Insulation R-Value Is & Why It Matters
As we mentioned, R-value is a unit of measurement that helps determine the effectiveness of a particular insulation material. R-value is based on the density, thickness and material itself. The higher the R-value of an insulation material, the better the thermal performance. This can help you determine the best and most cost-effective way to insulate your home.
Proper R-value can help you save money on energy costs and help your home stay more comfortable. Since your home will be insulated as needed for your climate, your HVAC systems won’t have to work as hard to maintain your desired indoor temperatures.
How R-Value is Calculated
The formula for R-value is R = l / λ. The I is the thickness of the material, and the λ is the thermal conductivity. To put it into perspective, solid wood has an R-value of 1, and since we include thickness, a three-inch board would have an R-value of 3.
Blown fiberglass has a thermal conductivity of 2.2 per inch, so 12 inches of insulation would give you an R-value of 26.4.
If you want to calculate the R-value for your attic, you can:
- Measure the depth of your attic and note the type of insulation
- Identify the R-value of the existing insulation
- Determine the desired R-value of your area
- Calculate the additional insulation needed to reach your desired R-value
What Insulation R-Value Is Best for My South-Central California Home?
Homes in South-Central California are in Region 3 of the R-value map. This means that your R-values are:
- For an uninsulated attic: R-30 to R-60
- Existing 3-4 inches of insulation: R-25 to R-38
- Floors: R-19 to R-25
- Uninsulated wood-frame wall: R-5 wall sheathing
- Insulated 2×4 wood-frame wall: R-10 wall sheathing
- Basement or crawl space: R-5 wall sheathing or R-13 batt
Choosing the Right Insulation Solutions
There are several types of insulation to choose from based on their R-values. Let’s look at some examples of the insulation types you can install in your home.
- Fiberglass batts: R-value 3.14
- Fiberglass blown (attic): R-value 2.2
- Fiberglass blown (wall): R-value 3.2
- Cellulose blown (attic): R-value 3.13
- Cellulose blown (wall): R-value 3.7
- Spray foam: R-value 6.25
- Rigid board: R-value 4
- Rockwool: R-value 3.14
Request an Insulation Quote With Broken Drum Insulation of Visalia
If you need help insulating or re-insulating your home, reach out to Broken Drum Insulation of Visalia. Our experienced team can help you determine how much insulation you need and which types will work best in your home to reach your desired R-value. Choose us for a hassle-free experience every time.
Schedule your insulation installation appointment today by contacting us online!
