Let s say you measured your attic and you realize your attic has about 9 inches r 30 of insulation and your attic is about 40 sq feet you d need at least 3 inches of extra insulation that covers 40 sq ft to get an r value of r 38.
Fl residential attic insulation options.
It s available in fiberglass mineral wool plastic fibers and natural fibers.
Often installed into wall cavities as a way to retro fit walls lacking insulation it can also be blown into unfinished attic spaces.
Energy star s map of recommended home insulation shows that the majority of florida is within zone 2.
For diy attic insulation you ve got two choices.
Its properties make it an excellent choice for attic insulation.
Typically fiberglass or cellulose are the material choices.
Spray foam insulation is the most expensive insulation and it is available in open cell and closed cell options.
Blanket insulation is available as batts or rolls and is the easiest diy insulation material.
Installing spray foam insulation is a complex process so it s easiest to perform on new construction homes during the building phase.
Most homes are insulated in the attic and any floors located above unfinished basements or crawl spaces.
However it does not provide any vapor barrier.
Broward collier hendry lee miami dade monroe and palm beach and require a minimum r 30 attic insulation.
Climate zone 1 consists of the following south florida counties.
This type of insulation.
But if you have an existing home in need of attic insulation don t worry.
Spray foam is great for any home new or not so new.
Insulation decreases the amount of heat entering from outside when it s hot and traps warmth inside when it s cold.
The r value indicates how well insulation resists heat transfer.
Once you ve decided which type is best for you examine the material options and prices to home in on the right product.
All other florida counties are considered to be in climate zone 2 and require a minimum r 38.
Closed cell on the other hand is more dense and it provides an excellent barrier against air and water.
Most insulation you buy will have a sq ft number for easy reference.
R value for loose fill per inch is between r2 and r4 higher value with fiberglass.
Open cell is the less expensive option.
This is one of the two most common types of insulation.
Whether it s pink white yellow or blue all insulation is at least a little bit green after all anything that saves so much energy gets high marks for environmental friendliness.
Loose fill or batt the common term for blanket insulation.