Insulation is key to keeping your home comfortable and energy efficient. Without proper roofing insulation, heat and cold can easily pass through your attic and roof, forcing your HVAC system to work overtime. This means higher utility bills and an uncomfortable living space.
In this article, our Atlanta roofing specialists will examine the different types of roofing insulation to help you choose the best solution for you and your home.
Fiberglass Batt Insulation
Fiberglass batt insulation is one of the most common and affordable types of insulation for roofs. Made from fine fibers of glass, it comes in rolled blankets that can be placed between the rafters of your attic. The loose, fluffy fibers make fiberglass batts easy to install yourself.
Fiberglass batts provide good insulation at a low cost. The dense fibers trap air and slow the transfer of heat, keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Proper installation is key, though, to prevent heat loss and ensure maximum efficiency.
Mineral Wool Insulation
Mineral wool is a popular insulation material made from natural rock and steel slag. It is available in loose-fill, batts, and board forms for installation in attics, walls, and floors. Mineral wool is non-combustible and moisture-resistant and improves home energy efficiency.
In addition to thermal insulation, mineral wool is also an effective soundproofing material. Its dense, fibrous structure helps block noise transmission between rooms and from outside the home, allowing you to enjoy peaceful, quiet environments in your living spaces. Mineral wool can reduce noise pollution by up to 60% compared to uninsulated walls and attics.
Cellulose Insulation
Cellulose insulation is one of the most popular and eco-friendly roof insulation types. Made from recycled paper fibers, like cardboard or newspaper, cellulose is a great sustainable choice. It’s naturally fire-resistant and helps muffle sound transmission in the home.
Cellulose is one of the more affordable roof insulation options. Installed costs range from $0.25 to $0.40 per square foot. Cellulose may qualify for energy efficiency tax credits and rebates in some areas. With an R-value of 3.5 to 3.7 per inch, cellulose insulation provides good thermal resistance for the money.
Polyisocyanurate Insulation
Polyisocyanurate, also known as polyiso, is one of the most popular roof insulation types for commercial and residential buildings. It offers high R-values, meaning it’s very effective at preventing heat transfer. Polyiso insulation comes in rigid foam boards that are lightweight, durable, and water-resistant.
Polyiso has an R-value of 6 to 8 per inch of thickness, giving it excellent insulating power for its size. Thicker boards, typically 1 to 4 inches, are used to achieve the total R-value recommended for your building and climate zone. The high R-value means you’ll need fewer inches of polyiso to reach the necessary insulation level, allowing for a thinner profile under your roofing.
Polyurethane Foam Insulation
Polyurethane foam is a popular roof insulation option for many homeowners. This petroleum-based product comes in two forms: open-cell and closed-cell. Open-cell polyurethane foam has a sponge-like structure with small pockets of air trapped inside. It’s lightweight, inexpensive, and effective at muffling sound, but it’s not very durable and won’t prevent moisture buildup.
Closed-cell polyurethane foam is denser, with tiny enclosed air pockets that make it water resistant. Although more expensive, it’s often the preferred type for roof insulation. Closed-cell foam is excellent at controlling temperature and blocking noise. It has a high R-value, meaning it’s very effective at preventing heat transfer. This can significantly improve the energy efficiency of your home and lower utility bills.
For All Your Roofing Needs and Wants, Contact Atlanta Roofing
Whether you need a small roof repair, a new roof installation or an energy-efficient roof replacement, Atlanta Roofing has you covered. We provide high-quality roofing services to residential and commercial customers throughout the Atlanta metro area.
Call us today at 404-737-7179 for a free estimate on any residential or commercial roofing needs. Our friendly staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the roofing options and services we provide.