Energy-efficient Insulation
Energy-efficient Insulation
Homeowners can take steps to reduce the energy consumption of their homes by using energy-efficient appliances and energy-efficient insulation. Having an energy-efficient insulation system at home can save hundreds of dollars in energy bills. A home with a well-maintained and energy-efficient insulation system will also fetch more in the real estate market compared to homes with no home insulation. Fortunately, there are a lot of resources online that can help one choose the best type of insulation for the home.
What is Insulation?
Insulation is any material used to protect the home or parts of the home from the outside environment, to prevent damage from exposure to the elements and to prevent drastic fluctuations in indoor temperature. Energy-efficient insulation saves money because it minimizes heat loss and prevents drafts from entering the home, making any home more comfortable in winter.
Areas Where Insulation is Placed
Common areas in the home where house insulation is placed include the attic, the basement, the walls and the ceiling. Crawl spaces and floors may also require insulation especially in very cold locations.
Common Types of Home or Building Insulation
House insulation or building insulation is the barrier placed between spaces in the home or building between heated and unheated areas, although building insulation may also refer to other types of insulation such as impact insulation, acoustic and fire insulation. An energy-efficient insulation system in the attic can cut fuel bills for up to 40%. Reflective insulation is one type of energy-efficient insulation system used in most households. Also called a radiant heat barrier, this is usually made of aluminum and blocks the transfer of radiant energy in open spaces.
Board insulation is another type if home insulation that can be used on any part of the home and adds to the strength to the structure of the house. Board insulation is usually made of polystyrene and polyurethane. Pipe insulation, on the other hand, is the kind of insulation used to protect pipes in cold areas to prevent them from freezing. Although pipe insulation have no significance when it comes to having an energy-efficient insulation system at home, they prevent condensation and dripping which can ultimately wear out the pipes, saving money on pipe replacement bills.
