R-Value of Insulation

 

Trust Us with Your Heating or AC Repair on Florida's East Coast.

R-Values of Insulation

An insulating material’s resistance to conductive heat flow is measured or rated in terms of its thermal resistance or R-value -- the higher the R-value, the greater the insulating effectiveness. The R-value depends on the type of insulation, its thickness, and its density. When calculating the R-value of a multilayered installation, add the R-values of the individual layers. Installing more insulation in your home increases the R-value and the resistance to heat flow. To determine how much insulation you need for your climate, use an insulation calculator or consult a local insulation contractor.

The effectiveness of an insulation material’s resistance to heat flow also depends on how and where the insulation is installed. For example, insulation that is compressed will not provide its full rated R-value. The overall R-value of a wall or ceiling will be somewhat different from the R-value of the insulation itself because heat flows more readily through studs, joists, and other building materials, in a phenomenon known as thermal bridging. In addition, insulation that fills building cavities densely enough to reduce airflow can also reduce convective heat loss.

Unlike traditional insulation materials, radiant barriers are highly reflective materials that re-emit radiant heat rather than absorbing it, reducing cooling loads. As such, a radiant barrier has no inherent R-value. Although it is possible to calculate an R-value for a specific radiant barrier or reflective insulation installation, the effectiveness of these systems lies in their ability to reduce heat gain by reflecting heat away from the living space.

The amount of insulation or R-value you'll need depends on your climate, type of heating and cooling system, and the part of the house you plan to insulate. To learn more, see our information on adding insulation to an existing house or insulating a new house. Also, remember that air sealing and moisture control are important to home energy efficiency, health, and comfort.


U.S. Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

 
Send a Message
 
 
Connect With Us
 
Coast Air & Heat
Coast Air & Heat
   2317 N Wickham Rd
Melbourne, FL 32935
   License# CAC1818755
   2317 N Wickham Rd Melbourne, FL 32935
  Mon - Fri  |  7:30am - 5:00pm
  24 Hour Emergency Service
Like us on Facebook for more info on our AC repair service in Melbourne FL
For AC repair in Melbourne FL, find us on Google!
To schedule your Heat Pump installation in Palm Bay FL, just email us!
Read what your neighbors say about the AC repair or installation we performed near Melbourne FL on Yelp!
For the best AC replacement in Palm Bay FL, choose a BBB-rated HVAC company.
 
Payment Options
 
For AC in Melbourne FL, we accept most major credit cards.
 
Check out our Ductless Mini Split financing options in Melbourne FL
Can't afford a new Heat Pump out of pocket? Check out our financing options in Palm Bay FL
 
Looking for financing options? Special financing available. This credit card is issued with approved credit by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Equal Housing Lender. Learn more.
Home   |   Email Us   |   Get a Quote   |   Maintenance   |   Guarantees   |   Employment   |   Reviews   |  
Home   |   Email Us
Get a Quote   |   Maintenance   |   Guarantees
Employment   |   Reviews   |