Insulation Materials

Material names are only the start of a useful insulation comparison. Loose fill, batts, boards and foam need an application and installation method that suit the complete assembly. These articles explain product-related questions, including how to connect a stated R-value with the manufacturer’s thickness and coverage requirements.
Start with the materials guide for the broader comparison, then use the article below to read a specification more carefully. For an open attic, the attic service page connects material selection to preparation and access. For an enclosed wall or exposed floor, describe the construction before choosing a product. A general material description does not determine the right assembly for a particular house.