Many property owners know that updating a home’s insulation is an important and necessary step, but they aren’t sure where to begin the process. With so many options to choose from, insulation installation can feel overwhelming at times.
It is important to know that there are two commonly-used types of insulation installed in most residences: fiberglass and spray foam. To determine which option is best for your family’s needs, consider the following differences between fiberglass and spray foam insulation in Sacramento, CA:
- Air flow: The main purpose of insulation is to help regulate temperatures inside of your home by reducing the amount of indoor air that flows through the walls and into the outdoors. Fiberglass manages temperatures by holding air inside countless glass fibers in its material. Spray foam creates an airtight or almost airtight seal which prevents warm or cool air from passing through. Air leakage is typically higher in fiberglass insulation, whereas spray foam insulation in Sacramento, CA allows for minimal amounts of air flow.
- Energy efficiency: One of the major benefits of installing insulation is that is reduces the amount of energy needed to properly heat or cool your home. Any type of insulation will save you money each month on your energy bills and lessen your effect on the environment. Fiberglass improves energy efficiency by trapping heated or cooled air inside of your home. However, some homeowners choose spray foam insulation because it creates a strong, durable seal which can easily be sprayed into small crevasses and corners of a building’s structure.
- Cost: Fiberglass insulation appeals to property owners because it is both affordable and relatively easy to install. To place this type of insulation, contractors unroll and cut the material to the proper dimensions. Separately, spray foam insulation is more costly than fiberglass, because it requires increased levels of skill to use the installation machinery, and also because it creates a stronger barrier between the inside and outside of a home. If you have a specific budget in mind, let your contractor know so that you can work together to find the best insulation solution.
- Health and safety: Fiberglass insulation is created from many small, glass particles that can enter the air and pose a risk to airways or skin if not handled properly. For some homeowners, spray foam presents a more ideal insulation solution because it is not associated with these risks. Spray foam directly adheres to the surface on which it is applied, and expands to only that area. It is designed to stay intact and in place, while fiberglass may come loose or fall apart after extended periods.
With each type of insulation having its benefits and drawbacks, it is important to consult with an experienced contractor before beginning installation in your home. Your contractor will be able to discuss your priorities and help you decide which material will work best for your family’s needs. If you would like more information on professional insulation for your residential or commercial building, consult the skilled experts at 5 Star Performance Insulation, Inc. today.