Essential Checklist for Selecting Insulation for Residential Walls

As energy costs continue to go up, it is becoming increasingly important for you to live in a well-insulated home. This is where residential insulation contractors come in — they are committed to helping homeowners like you to maximise their property's energy efficiency through the installation of insulation. Proper insulation of residential buildings reduces heat losses that lead to increased energy bills.

When it comes to wall insulation, there are many different types of insulation materials to choose from. The right type of wall insulation for your home depends on your specific insulation needs. 

Here are a few important factors that a residential insulation contractor will consider when deciding which wall insulation option is right for you.

The Required Thermal Performance

One of the key factors that a contractor will consider when selecting insulation for your walls is how much thermal resistance is ideal for the walls. The required thermal resistance will depend on which walls you want to insulate. Do you want to insulate interior walls, exterior walls or both?

The amount of thermal resistance required will determine which type of wall insulation to use. The greater the R-value of an insulation type, the greater the level of resistance it can provide against moisture, condensation and air leakage.

The Thickness of the Insulation

When it comes to residential insulation, thicker is better for the same material. If you double the thickness of your wall insulation, you will double the insulation's thermal resistance, reducing heat losses through your walls by half.

However, it is important to note that there is a limitation to the weight of the insulation panels or boards that your walls can support.

The Cost of Insulation Installation

The cost of buying and installing insulation on walls varies depending on the product that you opt for. Generally, insulation products with higher R-values are more expensive to buy because they provide better insulation. Insulation that requires greater effort and skill to install attracts a higher installation cost.

Your insulation contractor can help you choose wall insulation that fits your budget. Note that you get what you pay for, so you should avoid the temptation to install cheaper products. Low-priced insulation may not provide the level of insulation that you're looking for. 

The best way to get the most out of your wall insulation is to leave the installation job to a professional. They will assess your insulation needs and offer advice on the right product for you and your home.