Your Four Best Roofing Insulation Options

Compelling reasons for roof and attic insulation in New Bern, NC include reduced utility bills and energy consumption. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, proper attic or roof insulation saves between 10 to 20 percent of energy use while reducing CO2 emissions and utility bills. If you are looking to replace your roof soon, you might as well increase your energy savings with insulation while you’re at it. Here are four options for insulating your roof and attic:

• Spray foam insulation: Spray foam is a favorite for roofs. This insulation fills any cracks as contractors spray it into your attic and help your roof to better resist wind and heat. Contractors apply it to the underside of your roof deck and directly into tiles and slate. This process acts as a stronger bond between tiles and slate, creating better insulation and energy savings. Closed-cell foam is the best option for large areas that are prone to moisture. Open-cell foam is more suitable for indoor applications like soundproofing, so be sure to choose the right type. Only a contractor can install spray foam insulation, so choose well.
• Rigid insulation boards: These boards are made with dense closed foam containing polyurethane, polystyrene or polyiso. It fits anywhere in your home, including basements, attics and crawl spaces. You can choose boards with foil exteriors if you want a radiant barrier. The material does not offer the same tight seal as spray foam, but it provides a high-efficiency value, and you can install it without hiring a contractor. However, if it’s exposed to sunlight, it damages easily.
• Batt insulation: Often distinguished as large pink rolls of fluff, batt insulation is the most commonly used. Mineral wool batt is making a comeback, but most of this insulation is still made from fiberglass. It is inexpensive and easy to install. You can cut it to fit around joints and use it in any room, including the attic. However, it does not rate high on energy efficiency, and the fiberglass particles irritate skin, lungs and eyes, causing potential illness or injury. If you make this a DIY project, wear protective clothing and a mask.
• Blown-in insulation: Also called loose-fill insulation, this type should not be confused with spray foam. It is commonly made from loose fiberglass shards, although some varieties contain recycled materials. Loose-fill is perfect for tight spots, like small attics or inaccessible roof decks. It fills every small space, much like spray foam. However, fiberglass blown-in insulation causes skin irritation and can lead to lung cancer in some individuals. Wear protective gear if you install it on your own. Cellulose loose-fill is safer and more durable, but it’s also flammable, so never install near heaters or electrical wiring. Cellulose fires are difficult to extinguish if the material does catch fire.

Dallas Cherry Roofing is a reliable roofing contractor in New Bern, NC. Once we replace your roof, you can enjoy new cost savings by adding roof or attic insulation. We can even choose materials that are most compatible with your desired roof insulation. Call us today to schedule an estimate.

Categorised in: Roofing Insulation

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