10 best house insulation

House insulation is a critical component of home construction and renovation, aimed at improving energy efficiency, comfort, and overall environmental sustainability. It is primarily related to weatherproofing, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), building supplies, and home improvement. Here's what you should know about house insulation:

  1. Purpose: The primary purpose of house insulation is to create a thermal barrier that reduces the transfer of heat between the interior and exterior of a building. This helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature year-round and reduces energy consumption for heating and cooling.

  2. Types of Insulation:

    • Fiberglass Insulation: Made from fine glass fibers, this type of insulation is one of the most common.It comes in rolls or batts and is known for its affordability and effectiveness.
    • Cellulose Insulation: Made from recycled paper products treated with fire-resistant chemicals, cellulose insulation is environmentally friendly and effective at reducing heat transfer.
    • Foam Board Insulation: Rigid panels of foam board insulation, such as polystyrene or polyurethane, provide excellent thermal resistance and can be used in various applications.
    • Spray Foam Insulation: This type of insulation is sprayed onto surfaces and expands to fill gaps and cavities. It provides an airtight seal and superior insulation properties.
    • Radiant Barrier: Reflective materials like foil are used to block radiant heat transfer, often installed in attics to reduce summer heat gain.
  3. R-Value: Insulation effectiveness is measured by its R-value, which indicates its thermal resistance. A higher R-value signifies better insulation properties, and the choice of insulation should consider the climate and specific application.

  4. Installation: Proper installation is crucial to insulation effectiveness. Gaps, voids, and compression of insulation should be avoided to maintain consistent thermal performance. It's often recommended to hire professionals for installation, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

  5. Areas to Insulate:

    • Attic Insulation: Insulating the attic is one of the most effective ways to improve energy efficiency. It helps prevent heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.
    • Wall Insulation: Walls can be insulated during construction or through retrofitting by adding insulation materials to the interior or exterior walls.
    • Basement and Crawlspace Insulation: Insulating these areas helps control moisture, temperature, and overall indoor air quality.
    • Windows and Doors: Weatherstripping and adding insulating materials around windows and doors can reduce drafts and heat transfer.
  6. Energy Savings: Proper insulation can lead to significant energy savings by reducing the need for heating and cooling. This, in turn, lowers utility bills and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

  7. Soundproofing: Insulation also provides acoustic benefits by reducing noise transmission between rooms and from the outside.

  8. Sustainability: Some insulation materials are environmentally friendly and made from recycled or renewable resources, contributing to sustainable construction practices.

In summary, house insulation is a fundamental aspect of building design and renovation, aimed at improving energy efficiency, comfort, and sustainability. The choice of insulation material and its proper installation are key factors in achieving these goals and ensuring a well-insulated and comfortable living environment.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best house insulation on the market
  

JOHNS MANVILLE INTL 90013166 Series R13 15"x32' Kraft Roll

JOHNS MANVILLE INTL

Based on 194 reviews Check latest price

Product description

R13, 15" x 32', Kraft roll, fiberglass insulation, battery thickness 3-1/2", 40 sqft per bag.

  • The Package Weight Of The Product Is 11.31 Pounds
  • The Package Height Of The Product Is 15.5 Inches
  • The Package Length Of The Product Is 27.0 Inches
  • The Package Width Of The Product Is 19.0 Inches

User questions & answers

Question: Is this a full roll
Answer: Yes, this product is a full roll as per product description: R13, 15" x 32', Kraft roll, fiberglass insulation, battery thickness 3-1/2", 40 sqft per bag.
Question: Will this work on 2/6 boards in the ceiling
Answer: This is R13 insulation for 2 by 4 studs on 16” centers. If your ceiling has 16 inch center joists, it will fit but it isn’t as thick as the 2 by 6 ceiling would take. You probably want to have a thicker roll with a higher R rating for your ceiling.
Question: Is there any fiberglass material exposed? Will i have to touch fiberglass
Answer: Yes it’s basically rolled fiberglass with a paper backing. It’s soft like cotton fluff but you don’t want to breathe it or KH ave it on your skin for any length of time. I suggest using gloves, mask and safety glasses when installing.
Question: How come The price is hiked in 2 days from $12 per roll two $39. per role
Answer: 1/29/2021 in store price $16:48 a roll. check for yourself

500 sqft (4ft x 125ft) of NASA TECH Commercial Grade Perforated No Tear Green Energy Radiant Barrier Reflective Insulation Attic Foil Roof Attic House Wrap SCIF RIFD

AES

Based on 256 reviews Check latest price

Product description

tem Description: >>>500sqft Rolls (4ft x 125ft) >>>Perforated 4 ft X 125 ft roll (500 sf) breathable. Ideal for attics, sheds, warehouses, and as house wrap Double-sided 99.9% PURE reinforced ALUMINUM that blocks 97% of the radiant heat in summer and winter Industrialized strength with woven polyethylene scrim for tear resistance. Cannot be torn or ripped Passes required ASTM fire test (E84 using E2599 mounting method) for building materials Exceeds required ASTM Water Vapor Permeability (Breathability): 8.5 perms (ASTM 96-00) Reflective Insulation is a 5-layer, perforated, reflective energy-shield. It’s two outer layers of 99% aluminum foil reflect 97% of radiant heat. Each layer of foil is bonded to a tough layer of Mylar and has an interwoven nylon scrim for extra added strength. It's so strong it's virtually impossible to tear! It also has a Class 1, Class A fire rating! You’ll find that hot and cold spots in your home are eliminated summer and winter. You’ll find yourself enjoying greater comfort in your home. And, since it doesn’t use energy to increase your level of comfort, you’ll have lower utility bills. How It Works!!! As much as 83% of the heat gain in the summer takes place through the ceiling and roof. SuperShield Reflective Insulation reflects the sun's heat before it can penetrate your home. You will use less air conditioning to keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long. According to the Department of Energy, homeowners can expect up to 45% cooling savings depending on the climate, current amount of insulation in the attic, and household energy use. Many of our customers have experienced higher results, but these results have not been verified by a third party.

  • Perforated No Tear Commercial / Industrial Grade
  • 500sqft (4ft x 125ft) Perforated Breatheable Radiant Barrier
  • HIGHLY REFLECTIVE: Double-sided and tear-resistant, our foil’s material is highly reflective to reflect radiant heat rather than absorb it. The industrialized strength foil is remarkably thin to the touch. It is designed to withstand heavy handling without tearing, puncturing, or overly wrinkling. Cuts easily with utility scissors so you can install it properly with ease with no special tools or protective equipment required.
  • ASTM COMPLIANT: Meets the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) fire and smoke safety requirements of most state and local building codes, as well as the breathability standards for building materials. While primarily used for attic rafters and floors, our radiant foil works well for garages, workshops, storage units, barns, warehouses, and even older multi-storied homes that lack sufficient insulation.
  • 90-DAY 100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE. We offer a No Hassle 120-Day 100% Money Back Guarantee. If, within the four months, you are not completely satisfied with your purchase for any reason, just let us know and we will refund you all your money.

User questions & answers

Question: Puedo instalarlo en el piso de mi casa para calentarlo? Ya que es muy frio
Answer: We used 1/4” but I am sure that even 1/2” would work. It is thin but super strong and depending on if you are going over raw insulation and it pooches out a little the 1/2 works better for that. It really makes a great difference in insulation! Good luck!
Question: I am building a workshop out of two shipping container. i will be putting studs. should i mount this on the metal or on the studs
Answer: The thickness is as aluminum foil and meets the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) fire and smoke safety requirements of most state and local building codes.
Question: does it block cellphone signal? Wifi ? Thank you
Answer: The material is unaffected by humidity and climate changes so no further maintenance is required upon installation.
Question: This states it is aluminum on a pe scrim, then aluminum on mylar with an interwoven nylon scrim. different! exactly what is the 5 layer construction
Answer: no, it is a Mylar type product

Owens Corning R-13 Faced Insulation Roll

Owens Corning

Based on 87 reviews Check latest price
  • Individual Roll - 15 Inches Wide x 32 Feet Long
  • Ideal for use in 2x4 walls; providing excellent thermal control & Effective acoustical control
  • With less dust than other fiberglass products, EcoTouch PINK Fiberglass insulation has excellent stiffness and recovery characteristics
  • Compression packaging from Owens Corning speeds job site handling and installation
  • GREENGUARD GOLD Certified and validated to be Formaldehyde free

User questions & answers

Question: what is the most used r value in 2 x 4 exterior walls
Answer: You can probably get different quantities, but the ones I ordered had 3 slap coolers.
Question: Why is this so expensive? It's a third this price at big-box retailers
Answer: yes
Question: Do you get one roll or six
Answer: Currently only carry white, great color for sublimation as well as vinyl. Thanks
Question: Can this be used under my modular home in the crawl space under the floor
Answer: If you are referencing Cricut's new infusible ink system, this is not a certified infusible ink blank. I'm not able to tell you for sure that this will work, as I haven't tried it myself but this Slap Can Cooler has a polyester coating on top of a 1/4 inch Neoprene. Please see Cricut's site to verify if the infusible ink system will work with this type of product. Thanks!

Product features

Find the recommended R-value for your region

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends R-values for insulation projects based on where you live. “R-value” is the capacity of an insulating material to resist heat flow. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating power.

Products designed for the way people live today

With an industry-leading portfolio of insulation solutions that help make homes more comfortable, quiet, safe and sustainable, Owens Corning makes home a better place to be.

SmartSHIELD -3mm 24"x10Ft Reflective Insulation Roll, Foam Core Radiant Barrier, Thermal Insulation Shield - Engineered Foil

Based on 579 reviews Check latest price

Product description

THIS IS NOT A CHEAP DOUBLE BUBBLE REFLECTIVE INSULATION, WE HAVE A SUPERIOR QUALITY REFLECTIVE FOAM CORE INSULATION, FOAM CORE RADIANT BARRIER, COMMERCIAL GRADE!!! WHERE TO INSULATE? Attics, Ceilings, Walls, Steel Buildings, POLE BARNS, Roofing, Concrete Floor, Radiant Heat in a Concrete Floor, Radiant Heating Under a Wood Floor, Cathedral Ceiling, Water Heater Tank, Radon Barrier, Water Pipe and Air Duct, Reflective Ceiling System, Behind a Hot Water Radiator, Crawl Space, In Ground Swimming Pools, Shed, Fish & Hunting Shelter, Cooling Room, Cold Chamber or Wine Cellar, Concrete Block Wall, Cavity Wall for Metallic Studs in Commercial Buildings, Foundation Wall, Above Ground Swimming Pools, Quanset Hut, House Wrap.

  • EXTREMELY EFFECTIVE - Reflect 95% of radiant energy, perfect RADIANT BARRIER!
  • VAPOR BARRIER -Unaffected by humidity and moisture, can be used outdoor/indoor.
  • SOUND BARRIER - excellent sound deadening material, effectively blocking sound waves.
  • SUPREME QUALITY - 3mm closed cell polyethylene FOAM (not a cheap bubbles) sandwiched between highly reflective Engineered Foil on both sides. Easy to install, easy to cut and easy to clean, Strong but lightweight.
  • NON TOXIC - will not irritate skin, eye or throat. Non allergic.

User questions & answers

Question: Is this designed for an outdoor upright freezer
Answer: I have fine, straight hair also and I love how my hair feels with quick slip. I find it to be more of a leave-in conditioner. I use a tiny amount before blow drying my hair. Helps to hold my style without feeling sticky or stiff. Adds a small amount of body. I have never used fast foam so can't compare.
Question: Will it unravel if cut, looking to use as window coverings in a travel trailer
Answer: The two products are slightly different. Seems the gray cap one holds a little better. I use both and alternate with other products so that my hair doesn't get weighed down by the same product day after day. My hair is fine with no body, so it's kind of high maintenance, and Paul Mitchell works well for it, including shampoo.
Question: how thick is it
Answer: Yes and this bottle is slightly larger. The old red one only had 5.1 ounces.
Question: This might be weird but can u sew it and it hold the stitching well
Answer: It is dishwasher safe. I washed mine, the plastic ring changed color slightly , it's frosty black now LOL, but didn't affect functionality.

Owens Corning R-6.7 Unfaced Insulation Roll

Owens Corning

Based on 367 reviews Check latest price
  • Multi-Purpose insulation is made from a 2" thick fiberglass wool and has a thermal value of R-6.7
  • Insulates gaps around windows, doors, air conditioners, outlet boxes and around pipes.
  • Unrolls and cuts easily for spot insulation.
  • The dimensions are 2" thick x 16" wide x 48" long.
  • Each package covers 5.33 square feet.

User questions & answers

Question: can I use this on the sides of my window a/c how does it stay up on the sides of the a/c
Answer: Nothing special about it, go to local store.
Question: Is this product fireproof
Answer: 1 and 1 roll can be purchased for $13 at Home Depot. This is a rip off!
Question: I want a product that I can apply over plastic that is covering a broken window. Once applied I want to cover with material. Will this work
Answer: It’s cheaper by $12 a roll at Home Depot.
Question: Does anyone know if a layer of this inbetween the walls of a feral cat enclosure would keep it warm outdoors
Answer: Not at all - this is a great choice for hair that needs a little love!

Product features

Find the recommended R-value for your region

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends R-values for insulation projects based on where you live. “R-value” is the capacity of an insulating material to resist heat flow. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating power.

Products designed for the way people live today

With an industry-leading portfolio of insulation solutions that help make homes more comfortable, quiet, safe and sustainable, Owens Corning makes home a better place to be.

500 sqft (4ft x125ft) of NASA TECH Commercial Grade SOLID White One Side Non Perforated No Tear Green Energy Radiant Barrier Reflective Insulation Attic Foil Roof Attic House Wrap SCIF RIFD

AES

Based on 23 reviews Check latest price

Product description

tem Description: >>>500sqft Rolls (2ft x 250ft) >>>Solid Non-Perforated 4 ft X 125 ft roll (500 sf) breathable. Ideal for attics, sheds, warehouses, and as house wrap Double-sided 99.9% PURE reinforced ALUMINUM that blocks 97% of the radiant heat in summer and winter Industrialized strength with woven polyethylene scrim for tear resistance. Cannot be torn or ripped Passes required ASTM fire test (E84 using E2599 mounting method) for building materials Exceeds required ASTM Water Vapor Permeability (Breathability): 8.5 perms (ASTM 96-00) Reflective Insulation is a 5-layer, non-perforated, reflective energy-shield. It’s two outer layers of 99% aluminum foil reflect 97% of radiant heat. Each layer of foil is bonded to a tough layer of Mylar and has an interwoven nylon scrim for extra added strength. It's so strong it's virtually impossible to tear! It also has a Class 1, Class A fire rating! You’ll find that hot and cold spots in your home are eliminated summer and winter. You’ll find yourself enjoying greater comfort in your home. And, since it doesn’t use energy to increase your level of comfort, you’ll have lower utility bills. How It Works!!! As much as 83% of the heat gain in the summer takes place through the ceiling and roof. SuperShield Reflective Insulation reflects the sun's heat before it can penetrate your home. You will use less air conditioning to keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long. According to the Department of Energy, homeowners can expect up to 45% cooling savings depending on the climate, current amount of insulation in the attic, and household energy use. Many of our customers have experienced higher results, but these results have not been verified by a third party.

  • Solid Non Perforated White One Side No Tear Commercial Grade
  • 500sqft (4ft x 125ft)

User questions & answers

Question: Would this have a crinkly sound if used for curtains
Answer: YES ITS A R VALUE AND RADIANT BARRIER IN ONE VERY POPULAR APPLICATION
Question: Does this block any wifi or radio signal
Answer: If you are installing insulation and Sheetrock/plywood on the inside of the studs, I would install film on the metal and then 2X4 with ‘R-13 insulation and then 3/4” of foam board and 1/2”or thicker plywood. That is what I did. West wall in south Texas is much much cooler. Makes great workshop as walls will support shelves, etc.
Question: can it be used to wrap older house before siding the house
Answer: No
Question: Does the white side have any lettering
Answer: 2 layers of alum on each side mylar scrim in the middle heavy duty radiant barrier

SmartFOIL- 4ft x 250ft Industrial Grade Radiant Barrier 1000 sq. ft roll - Attic Foil, House Wrap, Reflective Insulation - Perforated, Breathable - Engineered FOIL (Blocks 95% of Radiant Heat)

Based on 12 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Unlike traditional mass insulations like blown-in and batt cellulose/fiberglass, SmartFOIL radiant barrier blocks 95% of the radiant heat, thereby greatly reducing the amount of heat that enters a home when installed in the attic space or as a house wrap. Combined with existing mass insulation, you can significantly improve the comfort of your home, and SAVE BIG on YOUR ELECTRIC BILLS. Product works equally well in both hot and cold environment!!! Non-toxic; non-carcinogenic; fiber free; easy to install; not affected by humidity; maintenance free; does not promote the growth of fungi or bacteria; does not support nesting by rodents or insects. FIRE RATING: Class A / Class 1 (ASTM E-84) - Meets fire and smoke requirements for most local, state and federal building codes

  • MEETS OR EXCEEDS ALL ASTM C1313 STANDARDS - Class A Fire Rating (E84 with E2599 mounting). Corrosion resistance according to D3310 is achieved by a proprietary clear coating applied to the Engineered Foil surface.
  • INDUSTRIAL / COMMERCIAL GRADE - SmartFOIL Radiant Barrier is TEAR & PUNCTURE PROOF, but you can easily cut it with utility scissors. Both sides reflects 95% of the radiant heat.
  • PAYS FOR ITSELF - by reducing heating cost in winter and cooling cost in summer. Blocks 95% heat radiating from the underside of a hot roof. Save big on your utility bill.
  • EASY TO INSTALL - in existing homes or new constructions, by stapling to the bottom of rafters and over attic floor. Frequently used as House Wrap for additional insulation. Also used in barns, metal buildings, and poultry houses.
  • 1,000 SQUARE FEET ROLL - 4 feet x 250 feet BREATHABLE, PERFORATED, DOUBLE-SIDED, REINFORCED Engineered Foil radiant barrier.

Petsfit Dog House, Dog House Outdoor

Xiamen JXD Electronic Commerce Co., Ltd

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • ✔ INSULATION KIT: Suitable for PETSFIT and all other dog houses in dimensions in 45.6 X 30.9 X 32.1 Inches.
  • ✔ FEATURES EPE FOAM. The dog house insulation sleeve controls the temperature in the dog shelter & keeps pets from getting too cold in winter or too hot in summer.
  • ✔ DURABLE INSULATION: The durable cabin pet home cover has a 2-layer outer fabric shell for long-lasting use.
  • ✔ EASY ASSEMBLY: Easily attached to cabins with velcro & zippers.
  • ✔ MACHINE WASHABLE: Removable and washable material, easy to clean.

User questions & answers

Question: What kind of wood is it made out of
Answer: It will not unravel. The cut lines stays clean
Question: does it come assembled
Answer: Foam is 3mm thick.
Question: I live in Arizona and we sometimes get heavy rains. Is the dog house waterproof? I want to make sure my cat, Naanta, stays dry (she is a real diva
Answer: Hmmm. It is rigid with a "foam-like" interior. Probably 1/4". It can be folded. I put it on the inside of a tall metal planter to insulate roots for bamboo. Hope this helps.
Question: Does this dog house have to be weather proofed with some sort of varnish
Answer: R-21 for exterior walls. R13 and R15 are basically for interior

Product features

Easy Installation

Simple to install and remove with a single zipper and hook and loop attachment for easy installation.

Easy to Clean

Each kit is easy to maintain and clean, the durable light gray canvas has zippered compartments so you can remove the EPE insulating foam and machine wash the canvas for routine cleaning.

Insulation Layer

The insulation kit keeps the interior of your dog house warm and cozy in winter, by adding an EPE foam insulation layer on all four sides and sponge insert for mat.

MidWest Homes for Pets Eilio Dog House Insulation Kit, Fits Large Dog House Measuring 28.94L x 45.16W x 33.12H - Inches, 1-Year Manufacturer's Warranty

MidWest Homes for Pets

Product description

Help keep your dog warm and cozy in the colder months with the Eilio dog house insulation kit. The insulation kit keeps the interior of your dog house warm and cozy in winter, by adding an insulation layer on all four sides and bottom of the dog house. The large Insulation kit fits the large Eilio dog house model # 12EWDH-L. Each kit is easy to maintain and clean, the durable light gray canvas has zippered compartments so you can remove the EPE insulating foam and machine wash the canvas for routine cleaning. Each kit is easy to install and folds for convenient storage while not in use. Each Eilio insulation dog house kit comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.

  • Dog house insulation kit for the large Eilio dog house (model # 12EWDH-L) measuring 28.94 x 45.16W x 33.12H - inches
  • Insulation kit keeps the interior of your dog house warm and cozy in winter, kit insulates all four sides and bottom of the dog house
  • Easy Maintenance: Durable light gray canvas has zippered compartments so you can remove the EPE insulating foam and machine wash the canvas for routine cleaning
  • Dog house insulation kit is easy to install & folds flat for convenient storage when not in use
  • Dog house insulation kit comes with a 1-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty

Frost King CF1 "No Itch" Natural Cotton Multi-Purpose Insulation, 16 x 1 x 48-Inch

Frost King

Based on 450 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Frost King Natural Cotton Denim Insulation - No itch insulation. Made from 100% recycled denim. This multipurpose insulation is natural and completely nonirritating. Effective uses include insulation, cushioning, and noise dampening. This easy-to-use insulation can be cut or torn to fit pipes and ducts, walls in between joists, etc. Mold-resistant, mildew-resistant, fire-resistant. No warning or precautions necessary; can be handled/installed with no need for gloves, goggles, masks. Plus it is because it is 100% recyclable. 16" W. x 1" thick x 48" L. - Size: 16 In. x 48 In., Material: 100% Recycled Denim, Thickness: 1 In., Pkg Qty: 1, Package Type: Bag

  • Use For Insulating, Cushioning, And Noise Dampening
  • Safe Alternative - No Gloves, Face Mask, Or Goggles Needed
  • Cut Or Rip To Fit Pipes And Ducts, Walls, And Much More
  • Brand Name: Frost King

User questions & answers

Question: How many fleece liners could i make out of what comes in 1 pack of this
Answer: Its super thin and I think it's 1 sheet... (could have been 2 , can't remember, was a while back - check the product details!!) not sure what you're looking for but I was using for soundproofing and was a disappointment. It's a tiny thin sheet of denim. The "1 inch" thickness is more like a 1/4 inch. Better to buy foam at a foam shop. I've had bad luck on Amazon with foam/denim products.
Question: Does this smell
Answer: No odor at all
Question: Could I use this as an eco filler for a quilt ? Is it purely shredded denim or has it been pre treated with any chemicals
Answer: Yes
Question: What is the R value
Answer: It says the R value is 4 on the package which means resistance to heat flow. The higher the R value,the greater the insulating power. Thats all I can find. I dont know if that number is higher or lower.

Product features

Frost King CF1 "No Itch" Natural Cotton Multi-Purpose Insulation, 16 x 1 x 48-Inch

With Frost King Natural Cotton Insulation, you don't need gloves, a face mask or goggles - it's completely safe and easy to install, yet provides maximum insulating power.

Cut it, rip it or just fit it into your ducts, walls or anyplace that needs a quick bit of insulating. It comes in different sizes and lengths to fit your needs.

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