Building a new home is an exciting journey with lots of decisions along the way. From choosing the location of the build to the final finishes on the interior, new homeowners have a long list of decisions to make before a new home is complete. One of the most important choices is what type of insulation is installed in your new home. If you’re struggling to choose a type of insulation for your new home, check out this breakdown of the different options.
Why is Insulation Important?
Insulation is something that can’t be skipped during the home-building process. Insulation serves multiple purposes including:
- Interior temperature control
- Minimizing outside noise heard inside the home
- Prevention of drafts & cold floors
- Prevents frozen pipes
Cellulose
Cellulose is one of the oldest types of insulation on the market. It’s most commonly used in the attic and wall cavities. Cellulose is made of newspaper or denim, but you wouldn’t know it by looking at it! Cellulose insulation can be installed either wet or dry. Dry cellulose has a tendency to settle and shift, while wet cellulose will stay where it’s applied and form a better seal.
The biggest benefit of cellulose is that it’s affordable and easy to install.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass insulation is the cheapest type of insulation on the market. This insulation is made up of tiny fibers of glass, hence the name fiberglass. Fiberglass is the go-to insulation choice for homeowners looking for a quick and easy fix. The insulation comes in rolls or sprays that’s applied in the attic and wall cavities. Unfortunately, this cheap option is also the least effective insulation option.
Fiberglass insulation is not recommended for new home builds. If you’re starting with a brand-new home, why would you install the least effective type of insulation? Fiberglass insulation will settle over time and makes a great nesting material for unwanted pests.
Spray Foam
Spray foam insulation is the preferred insulation choice among contractors. This insulation is applied as a spray, but can expand up to 100 times once it’s been installed! That means your insulation will expand into every nook and cranny in the attic, walls, and floor joists. Spray foam insulation does cost more than cellulose or fiberglass insulation, but it’s by far the most effective option on the market.
Homeowners who choose spray foam insulation can expect to save big on their heating and cooling costs each month. Since the insulation doesn’t settle over time, you won’t have to worry about having unprotected areas in the home. Instead, spray foam moves with your home as it shifts and settles onto the foundation.
Contact Cape Cod Energy Solutions today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your insulation options!
