Types of Insulation
Let’s dive into the world of insulation and R-values. Insulation plays a crucial role in maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures and energy efficiency. Here are the main types of insulation and what you need to know about their ratings:
- Blanket Insulation (Batts and Rolls):
- Material: Typically made from fiberglass, mineral wool, or natural fibers.
- Application: Commonly used in walls, attics, and floors.
- R-Value: Around 3.2 per inch.
- Description: Blanket insulation comes in pre-cut rolls or batts, making it easy to install. It’s great for DIY projects.
- Spray Foam Insulation:
- Material: Polyurethane foam.
- Application: Ideal for sealing gaps, cracks, and irregular spaces.
- R-Value: Varies but can be high due to its excellent air sealing properties.
- Description: Spray foam expands to fill cavities, providing both insulation and air barrier.
- Loose-Fill Insulation:
- Material: Usually made of cellulose, fiberglass, or mineral wool.
- Application: Suitable for attics, walls, and hard-to-reach areas.
- R-Value: Varies based on material and density.
- Description: Loose-fill insulation is blown or poured into spaces, conforming to irregular shapes.
- Rigid Foam Boards:
- Material: Extruded or expanded polystyrene (XPS or EPS), polyisocyanurate (polyiso), or other rigid materials.
- Application: Used for walls, roofs, and foundations.
- R-Value: Ranges from 3.6 to 8 per inch.
- Description: These boards provide excellent thermal resistance and are moisture-resistant.
- Radiant Barriers:
- Material: Reflective foil or film.
- Application: Installed in attics to reflect heat away from living spaces.
- R-Value: Not typically measured in R-value; it works by reflecting radiant heat.
- Description: Radiant barriers are effective in hot climates where radiant heat transfer is significant.
R-Value Explanation:
- The R-value represents the insulation’s resistance to heat flow. Higher R-values indicate better insulation performance.
- For example, an R-value of 20 means the insulation resists heat flow 20 times better than a material with an R-value of 1.
- When choosing insulation, consider your climate, local building codes, and the specific area you’re insulating.
CUSTOMER REVIEWS
My first experience with Patriot couldn't have gone better! From the exceptional customer service Joe provided to the quick and effortless unloading. Not to mention the time I called and the time my material was delivered was less than 24 hours!
Codie Nichols, Nichols Spray Foam
Unadilla, NY
We have been in the foam insulation business for close to 20 years. Over that time, we have seen so many changes but through it all we have never felt that any distributor was doing all they could to help us. You ask for a price and the first thing they say is what are you paying brand x? The insulation business is the only business I have ever seen like this and to us it’s just crazy. Just give us the price sheet and we will decide from there. NO GAMES! Then out of nowhere comes Patriot Distribution & Coatings post covid when all businesses are fed up with the current business issues and suddenly, your faith is renewed. Rod M. and his team reached out to us then came to see our operation. From the jump you felt like this was a company you could count on, and it is. Price, product, and service are honestly the best we have come across in all our years. Not saying that all of our suppliers are horrible, but I do believe they could take a page out
of Patriots’ how to treat your customer manual.
Jeff Brault, Owner of Atlantic Insulation Inc.
Cape May, NJ