W YO HA R- UR T’S VA LU E? THE GUIDE TO MAKING YOUR HOME MORE COMFORTABLE WITH FIBERGLASS INSULATION
R-VALUE IS THE ABILITY TO RESIST HEAT FLOW Whether you’re a homeowner with a knack for DIY projects, or you are working with an insulation contractor, it’s important to understand the R-value of insulation and what it means for the comfort and efficiency of your house. If your house has cold spots, or you want lower heating and cooling bills, you can enhance your comfort and reduce utility costs by adding fiberglass insulation*. But first, you’ll need to determine the R-value you want to achieve.
HERE ARE THREE STEPS TO TAKE TO DETERMINE YOUR R-VALUE AND PLAN YOUR NEXT INSULATION PROJECT: 1. LOCATE YOUR CLIMATE ZONE If you live in the northeastern United States or other colder areas, you might need attic insulation with an R-value as high as R-60. If you live in a southwestern state or other areas with generally warmer temperatures, you might need attic insulation with an R-value of only R-30.
2. FIND YOUR EXISTING R-VALUE There are simple ways to determine the R-value of your existing insulation: Look for an installation card or insulation certificate in the attic or electrical panel. A previous owner or contractor might have left behind information about the R-value of insulation installed. Check to see if existing insulation has a paper facing. If it does, the R-value will be printed on the paper. If it does not, the R-value will be printed on the fiberglass itself.
