Many homeowners already realize that good insulation is a necessity. Contrary to popular belief, though, insulation is important even in a warm climate like the one we have here in the Coastal Bend. Air conditioners may be overworked and you may waste a lot of money if your home is not sealed and well-insulated. It can be intimidating, however, to try to decide what material or type of insulation is right for your home, as there are so many different products on the market. Here are a few tips to guide you as you plan your insulation project:
- Choose a material. Insulation can be made from a number of different materials, and each has its own set of pros and cons. Fiberglass is a popular choice for its versatility and low cost, but many homeowners have concerns about toxic chemicals and itchy reactions to contact with the fibers. The newer fiberglass products have eliminated these problems and are usually a very good choice. Cotton and cellulose are both more environmentally friendly options, but can many times cause severe dust problems in the home. Polyurethane and polystyrene are also available, though these are used in less common types of insulation.
- Decide what form you prefer. There are many different options for insulation, and all of them have varying R-values. Batting is generally low-cost and quick to install. Loose fill insulation is ideal for attics and some walls. Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) are gaining popularity for their simplicity, and are very effective. Spray foam insulation is a less popular option because, despite its effectiveness, it is costly to install and there are some concerns about indoor air quality in homes following installation.
- Consider your installation options. If you prefer to do your own renovations, then you should be realistic about your skills and choose a type of insulation you can install properly. Batting and SIPs are great options for do-it-yourself installations, as they are fairly self-contained and require no specialized equipment for installation. Spray foam and loose fill insulation, however, often require special equipment and a professional to install them.
Contact CCAC today for more tips on choosing the right type of insulation for your Corpus Christi home.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Corpus Christi, Texas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about insulation and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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