Best Roof Insulation in 2024: A Buyer's Guide

Most individuals don't spend much time thinking about roof insulation. However, making an informed decision regarding the finest insulation for your home can help you stay comfortable while saving money. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, properly insulating a home can save the average homeowner approximately 15% on their annual power cost.



If you are building a new house or looking to replace your existing insulation, there are several insulation types to consider. The optimal type of insulation for your home will be determined by several criteria, including your location, budget, and any current insulation you intend to keep.



Understanding the R-Value for Roof Insulation

The R-Value measures how efficiently insulation inhibits the flow of heat, allowing heat to stay inside your home on cold days and outside on hot days. R-values less than R30 are considered weakly insulated. For maximum insulation, you should aim for an R-value closer to R60.



Energy Star provides a map that displays what R-Value homeowners should use for insulation to assist them in determining what sort of insulation is most suited to their geographic region. For example, households in Massachusetts are advised to install insulation with an R-value as low as R38. On the opposite end of the scale, homes in California should use insulation with an R-value of at least R30.



If you're adding new insulation on top of existing insulation, you might be able to utilize insulation with a lower R-Value, as shown on the Energy Star map.



Here are some of the best roof insulation options you can consider:



Rigid Insulation Boards

Rigid board insulation, which is more typically used to insulate walls in living rooms than attics, is polyisocyanurate (polyiso), extruded polystyrene (XPS), or expanded polystyrene (EPS). The rigid insulation board's substance will affect both the R-Value and the cost; the higher the R-Value, the higher the cost, on average.



Pros

• Possible to obtain a high R-Value.
  
  
• Energy-efficient.
  
  
• Suitable for DIY projects in appropriate spaces.
  
  

Cons

• Not suitable for insulating unfinished attics.
  
  
• Expensive to install in huge spaces.
  
  
• Typically coated with a chemical fire retardant, which might have significant adverse health effects.
  
  

Structural Insulated Panels

Structural insulated panels, or SIPs, resemble plywood with stiff insulation in between them. This makes them tough to retrofit into homes, but they are an increasingly popular and long-lasting alternative to include when designing a home. When properly installed, SIPs can significantly lower energy expenses.



Pros

• Can hold weight (up to 70 pounds per square foot).
  
  
• Energy-efficient and reduces utility expenditures.
  
  
• Available in customized sizes and shapes.
  
  

Cons

• Must be professionally installed.
  
  
• Installation is best done during construction, rather than adding later.
  
  
• Must be protected from dampness.
  
  



Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation involves applying a polyurethane or latex spray evenly to the bottom of the roof deck, slates, and tiles. This not only provides insulation, but also seals cracks and prevents moisture from entering the property. It can be used for comprehensive insulation or in specific locations prone to moisture collection. If utilized to insulate an entire attic area, it would be on the expensive end of the insulation spectrum.



Pros

• Longer lasting than fiberglass insulation.
  
  
• Seals gaps and is moisture-resistant.
  
  
• Effective insulation for greater R-values.
  
  

Cons

• More expensive than fiberglass or blown-in insulation.
  
  
• Must be professionally installed.
  
  

Batt Insulation

Batt blanket insulation, a common type of insulation, is constructed of fiberglass and is reasonably easy to install yourself. Batt insulation is available in rolls of various diameters and R-values. The insulation can be cut to fit around ceiling joists and rafters, but it does not give the same seal as spray foam insulation. It is a good low-cost choice.



Pros

• Easy to purchase and DIY.
  
  
• Low-cost.
  
  
• Moisture-resistant.
  
  



Cons

• Reduced energy efficiency due to low R-Value.
  
  
• Multiple layers may be required for optimal insulation.
  
  
• Installation may cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and lungs.
  
  

Loose-Fill or Blown-In Insulation

Loose-fill or blown-in insulation, which is made of fiberglass, cellulose, or recycled materials, is an excellent choice for filling big spaces like an attic or crawlspace. It can be blown into space using a flexible tube, making it easy to insulate in difficult-to-reach areas. You have a lot of control over the overall insulation, which can help you get the correct amount for your climate.



Fiberglass insulation is not flammable, although it is not ideal for cold areas. Although cellulose insulation is flammable, it is a superior solution for colder climates and lasts longer than fiberglass.



Pros

• Control over R-value.
  
  
• Suitable for tight places and fills more space.
  
  
• DIY-friendly.
  
  



Cons

• Need to take safety precautions while installing.
  
  
• Can deflate over time.
  
  
• Retains moisture.
  
  

What to look for in Roofing Insulation?

There are several aspects to consider when insulating your home. The first is the R-value of your home, which measures how well insulation stops the movement of heat through it. Next, determine which form of insulation will be most effective. Finally, decide if you want to tackle the project yourself or hire a professional.



Arlington Coal & Lumber is your greatest partner for maintaining peak roof insulation efficiency. We offer everything you'll need to turn your concept into reality. Please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team for help! Let's make your roof the best protection for your home even in the most extreme weather conditions.