So, you’ve decided on re-doing your home’s insulation. Maybe you’re looking to lower your energy bills, reduce windy drafts or make your house more eco-friendly. But with so many insulation options, how do you choose which is best, specifically for exterior walls?
In this blog, you’ll learn how to figure out if you need more insulation, what R-values are and what’s recommended for your home, and the best choice of insulation based on your unique needs.
How Do I Know if I Need More Wall Insulation?
Ever feel like your home is never as comfortable as it could be? More often than not, the reason is hiding in your walls. On average, effective insulation can save you as much as 15% on heating and cooling costs.
But if you’re not sure if it’s worth adding more insulation to your home, here are a few signs to look out for:
- Constant fluctuating temperatures
- Unusually high or rising energy bills
- Exterior walls or ceilings feel hot in summer and cold in winter
- Excessive drafts
- Visible gaps in the insulation
What’s the Recommended R-Value for Exterior Walls?
R-value refers to the effectiveness and performance of insulation. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation performance. The recommended R-value for Cincinnati homes is a minimum of R-49 for attics and R-13 for uninsulated, 2×4 wood-frame walls.
Use these guidelines when making your selection:
2×4 Wall Studs
- R-13 insulation: 3 1/2 inches thick
- R-15 insulation: 3 1/2 inches thick
2×6 Wall Studs
- R-19 insulation: 6 1/4 inches thick
- R-21 insulation: 5 1/2 inches thick
If you’re having difficulty figuring out the R-value-to-wall ratio, call a professional for the best possible results.
What Is the Best Insulation for Exterior Walls?
Because there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to insulation, choosing the right insulation for your exterior walls will depend on your unique needs and preferences.
Here are top-rated insulation types to choose from:
- Fiberglass batt insulation: Affordable and effective, fiberglass batts fit snugly between wall studs for easy installation. A great option to use throughout your home, these offer an R-value per inch of R-2.9 to R-3.8.
- Loose-fill cellulose insulation: Made from recycled materials and blown into wall cavities and crevices, this is ideal for uniquely shaped or hard-to-reach areas. It delivers R-2.2 to R-3.8 per inch.
- Spray foam insulation: Expands to fill every crack and create a moisture/air barrier. Commonly used for new constructions. R-value per inch ranges from R-3.7 to R-6.2.
- Rigid foam board insulation: A solid choice for adding extra insulation without bulking up your walls. Typical R-value of R-5 to R-6 per inch of thickness.
Is It Difficult To Remove Old Wall Insulation?
Sometimes, to make way for the new, you’ve got to clear out the old. Removing old wall insulation can be necessary if it’s damaged or not performing well. While it might sound daunting, this process, called retrofit insulation (also known as re-insulation), is a key step in upgrading your home’s comfort and efficiency.
It’s highly recommended to schedule this type of service with a professional, as improper removal or installation can result in structural damage, high moisture buildup, higher energy bills, pest infestations and more.
Choose Mooney & Moses for Wall Insulation Installation in Ohio
When it comes to insulating your exterior walls, having the right team with the right expertise and experience makes all the difference. At Mooney & Moses, we’ve been keeping Ohio homes snug and energy-efficient for over 65 years.
From assessing your insulation needs to expert installation, our insulation professionals are here to provide the high-quality, effective and long-lasting insulation solutions your home deserves.
Want the best insulation installers in Cincinnati? Contact Mooney & Moses today to learn more — call 513-930-0715 to schedule an insulation service.
