R-value is an important part of insulation—it indicates how effective a particular material is. This term of measurement plays a significant part in determining how much insulation is needed and the savings that can be gained.
How Is Insulation R-Value Calculated?
Let’s start at a base point: solid wood has an R-value of 1. An R-value is also calculated per inch of width. Therefore, a three-inch-thick board has an R-value of 3. Blown fiberglass installed in the attic has an R-value of 2.2 per inch, so 12 inches of it would give you an R-value of 26.4 in your attic installation project.
What R-Value Is Best for Tampa Homes?
Yes, generally a higher R-value means a more effective insulator, but the highest R-value possible may not be necessarily right for your project. Homes in Tampa need less insulation than homes in other parts of the country. Each region of the United States has different recommended insulation levels. Here in the Tampa Bay area, we are in zone 2.
Source:energystar.gov
Different areas of your home require different R-values. If you’re installing attic insulation in Tampa, it needs a higher R-value than wall insulation because heat naturally rises and commonly escapes through your attic. Different materials also differ in R-values. For example, spray foam has a different R-value than fiberglass.
After you’ve figured out your zone and where your insulation is going to go, then you look at your different options and types of insulation.
This is a lot of information, but don’t worry—you won’t be doing this on your own. An insulation company will be able to explain R-value and determine the right amount of home insulation for you!
Choosing the Right Insulation Solutions
The R-Value shouldn’t be the only determining factor when you choose insulation. How old your home is, its location and building materials can all play a part in choosing the right insulation. Cost and the inhabitants of the home may be another factor in your decision-making. No matter what type of installation you choose for your project, Installed Building Products of Tampa can help.
Contact us to learn more about our insulation installation services or if you’re ready to install insulation in your Tampa, Florida area home!
