Insulation and Roofing: Boosting Your Home’s Efficiency

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit

Proper roof insulation is one of the best ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency and lower utility bills. Insulation creates an effective barrier between the inside and outside of your home, reducing heat transfer.

The type and amount of insulation you need depends on your climate and home specifics. For most homes, the attic and exterior walls are good places to start. Adding insulation to your attic can make a big difference in energy efficiency.

Proper insulation and an energy-efficient roof can significantly improve the comfort of your home while lowering energy usage and costs. Combined with sealing air leaks, these are some of the best ways to ensure maximum efficiency and savings for your most valuable asset.

Lanier Roofing has some of the best-rated roofing contractors in Greenville. Contact us today for a free estimate.

Types of Roof Insulation

There are several types of insulation you can install in your attic or under your roof to improve energy efficiency. The best option for you depends on your climate and budget.

Fiberglass Batt Insulation

Fiberglass batt is a popular, affordable choice. It comes in rolls that you place between the joists in your attic. Fiberglass works by trapping air to reduce heat transfer. It’s best for temperate climates.

Loose-Fill/Blown-In Insulation

Loose-fill or “blown-in” insulation, like cellulose or fiberglass, is another budget-friendly option. It’s made of small particles that are blown into your attic space. Blown-in insulation conforms very well to the attic space and reduces air leaks. It works for most climates but may settle over time.

Foam Board Insulation

Foam board insulation provides high R-values for its thickness. Types like polyisocyanurate (polyiso) and extruded polystyrene (XPS) are moisture-resistant and work in any climate. However, foam board is more expensive than fiberglass or cellulose and can be difficult to install yourself. It’s often used for roof panels and sheathing.

Rigid Insulation Boards

Also known as high-density polyiso cover boards, these rigid panels provide an effective thermal barrier for your roof. They are made from materials like polyisocyanurate (polyiso) that don’t absorb moisture and have an R-value of at least R-6 per inch of thickness. The panels are installed directly under your roofing material.

insulation is essential for an efficient roof

Spray Foam Insulation

This is a great option if you want to fill in small cracks and crevices. Spray foam insulation is made from polyurethane materials that expand and harden, sealing and insulating the area. It has one of the highest R-values per inch, around R-6 to R-7. Spray foam also helps reduce air leaks, drafts, and condensation in the attic. However, it typically costs more to install compared to other types of insulation.

Other roofing insulation options include:

  • Fiberglass blankets – Made from tiny glass fibers and can have an R-value of R-3 to R-4 per inch.
  • Cellulose – Made from recycled paper, newspapers, and wood chips. It has good soundproofing and fire resistance with an R-value of R-3.5 per inch.
  • Structural insulated panels (SIPs) – Foam panels with high R-values, around R-5 to R-6 per inch, that provide insulation and structure for walls and roofs.

Roofing Options for Improved Efficiency

When it comes to roofing, you have several options to improve your home’s efficiency. The type of roofing material you choose can impact the amount of energy required to heat and cool your house.

Metal Roofing

A metal roof, like aluminum or steel, reflects sunlight and can lower your cooling costs by up to 25%. Metal roofs can last 50-70 years and are ideal for rainwater collection. However, they may dent or scratch more easily and can be noisy during rainstorms.

Tile Roofing

Tile roofs, such as clay or concrete, also offer good insulation and can last 50 years or more. Tiles come in a variety of styles to suit your home’s architecture. However, tiles are heavy, so you need to ensure your roof can support the weight, and they may crack more easily in very cold weather.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt or composition shingles are affordable and energy efficient, lasting 15-30 years. Lighter colors will reflect more sunlight in warm weather. Asphalt shingles are versatile but may not withstand high winds as well as other materials.

Reach Out to Lanier Roofing Today For All Your Roofing Needs

When it comes to your roof, don’t settle for anything less than the best. Our team at Lanier Roofing has over 100 years of combined experience. We bring high-quality roofing solutions to homeowners in Greenville and surrounding areas.

Give us a call today at (864) 990-4836. We specialize in working with insurance companies to restore your roof to like-new condition after storm damage. Our licensed contractors can handle all aspects of your roof repair, from replacing shingles and gutters to fixing any underlying water damage.

Latest Posts

LET'S GET STARTED WITH
YOUR FREE QUOTE​