When it comes to insulating your attic in hot climates, there are a few options to consider. Blown fiberglass insulation is one of the most effective and environmentally friendly options, providing a dense barrier against heat loss. However, if your home has an older HVAC unit or water heater, spray foam may be the best option for energy savings and comfort. This type of insulation fills every nook and cranny to form a complete air barrier, ensuring that you have both a complete air barrier and complete insulation.
Aerosol insulation, such as Owen's new Corning Energy Complete system, is also an option. In both cases, a good air seal and an insulating cavity that is completely filled are obtained. Insulating the attic can save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs, according to the U. S. Department of Energy.
If you're looking for a do-it-yourself solution, you can purchase thermal insulation from Home Depot or Lowes and install it yourself. However, if you're looking for the most affordable way to make the attic compliant with building codes, you might want to increase the insulation to an R-value of 38, or approximately 13 inches of blown insulation. Before installing new attic insulation, it is important to hire a professional to inspect the existing insulation. This will help ensure that any existing asbestos is identified and removed safely. In addition, a professional can examine existing insulation to determine if it contains asbestos, which may be present in older homes that haven't been insulated recently.
To further reduce high attic temperatures in hot climates, consider adding attic fans and a radiant barrier to mimic spray foam and reflect heat. We believe that the best type of insulation for attics in hot climates is blown cellulose, as it generally has a higher R value than other materials. If you're thinking of doing it yourself, keep in mind that insulating an attic requires a fairly advanced level of skill, and read carefully to make sure you follow all the necessary preparations, safety precautions, and guidelines in your area. Another good practice is to have a continuous layer of insulation by using a layer of rigid insulation to cover the entire house. Unlike other insulation products that are installed on attic floors in hot and cold climates, radiant barriers are applied to the underside of roof beams in hot climates, reducing heat gain and air conditioning use. For installation in an attic, fiberglass rolls or pouches are not the best option compared to blow insulation. In conclusion, insulating your attic in hot climates requires careful consideration of all available options.
Blown fiberglass or cellulose insulation are both effective solutions for energy savings and comfort. However, if your home has an older HVAC unit or water heater, spray foam may be the best option for energy savings and comfort. Additionally, hiring a professional to inspect existing insulation is essential for safety reasons. Finally, adding attic fans and radiant barriers can further reduce high temperatures in hot climates.