By making your home more energy-efficient, you can save money on your energy bills. One of the ways to do this is to increase the level of insulation inside your home. Batt insulation is one of the common and affordable types of insulation used. It can be installed in many areas and with a proper installation, it is capable of making major improvements to your home.
What is Batt Insulation?
Batt Insulation is made of flexible fibers, most commonly fiberglass, also you can find batts and rolls made from mineral wool (which is also called rock wool), plastic fibers, and natural fibers such as cotton and sheep’s wool. It is cut into large thick pads or “batts”. This type of insulation can be used to insulate ceilings, floors, walls, and attics. Batt insulation often is used to fit between the framing of the home. For easy transportation, they are also manufactured in different sizes. Batt insulation is sold in a variety of R-Values and is the most comfortable and cheapest way to insulate new walls. It maintains its effectiveness because it doesn’t settle over some time.
Batt is also available in widths suited to standard spacing of wall studs, attic rafters, and floor joists. In order to maintain moisture levels under control during a wide range of temperatures, batt insulation will require a vapour barrier to install. Regarding air infiltration, it can be reduced by adding a layer of cellulose loose-fill on top of the material. If installed correctly, batt insulation can reduce the amount of energy required to cool or heat a house by 50%. Batt insulation installs quickly, easy and it delivers excellent thermal and sound control.
What is the R-Value of Batt Insulation?
R-Value describes how well the insulation works once installed. The R-Value of batt insulation depends on the thickness of the install. Mineral wool batts have a higher R-Value than fiberglass batts. Properly installing insulation around electrical wiring and plumbing, while ensuring proper ventilation in crawl spaces and attic, can be a complex process. A professional contractor has the skills and experience to properly install insulation to maximize effectiveness.
Mineral Wool Insulation vs. Fiberglass Insulation
From all the different types of insulation, fiberglass and mineral wool are probably the most similar ones. They both come in batts that are trimmed to fit inside stud bays, but that is where the similarities end. Mineral wool and fiberglass are completely different materials. Which one is better for your house situation? Take a look at the benefits and drawbacks of both types of insulation:
Size ➜ Fiberglass is available in a wider range of sizes and types than mineral wool. Mineral wool is only available in unfaced batts that are pressed into place.
R-Value ➜ The higher the R-Value the better is the thermal resistance. In comparison to fiberglass insulation, mineral wool has a higher R-Value, ranging between 3.3 and 3.5 inches.
Sustainability ➜ Fiberglass contains 20 to 30% recycled content while mineral wool insulation is composed of 70% or more recyclent content.
Weight ➜ Fiberglass is lightweight but it can be challenging to set into place because the batts are rather limp. On the other hand mineral wool is heavier than fiberglass, but the batts are also stiffer so they don’t bend over as easily.
Water Resistance ➜ Mineral wool insulation is highly resistant to moisture and water. In case that fiberglass insulation gets wet, it becomes soggy and its insulating value drops.
Fire Resistance ➜ Mineral wool insulation is fire resistant and also can be used as a firestop, but fiberglass insulation is not as fire resistant as mineral wool.
Installation➜ To cut mineral wool use a serrated knife or woodcutting handsaw. In order to cut fiberglass insulation, compress it flat with a metal straightedge then slice it with a utility knife. In the mineral wool insulation, there is no stapling required because it comes in dense, firm batts that are friction-fit into place. While Fiberglass batts must be secured with staples or wires.
Where Can Batt Insulation Be Installed?
Batt insulation can be installed wherever you would install any type of insulation. Including floors, walls, ceiling, crawlspaces, and attics. However, is particularly well-suited for rooms on the cold north side of the house. Also for rooms in need of sound deadening, such as home theatres, music studios, etc. If properly installed, fiberglass insulation properly installed can keep your home well insulated and reduce your energy consumption for years to come.
How to Install Batt Insulation in Walls
Batt insulation comes pre-cut in the standard wall stud sizes, making it easy to install for most wall cavities. All it takes is a utility knife and a little patience to make sure the insulation completely fills the stud cavity, top to bottom and side to side, without being overly compressed.
The installation may appear easy but there are some risks for a DIY installer. It is very important to consult a professional insulation contractor.
How to Install Batt Insulation in Attics
Batt insulation in attics is installed in the same manner as in a wall cavity. But you should be careful not to stuff the insulation too deeply into the area along the eaves of the house. Because it will block the soffit vents and prevent air from flowing into the attic and out a ridge vent. If it is necessary, staple polystyrene attic vents baffles between the roof rafters to prevent the insulation from covering the soffit vents.
Choose Eco Spray Insulation
At Eco Spray Insulation, we recommend that you consult a professional insulation contractor before you attempt any DIY insulation install. Our experts can highlight potential problems you may run into and they can ensure that you are taking the most cost effective route for your install.
Our team is determined to bring to homeowners the first rate quality products and the highest standard of expertise. Contact us at (416) 860-6664, or by email at [email protected] and our Professional Team will be happy to assist you.
