Types of Roof Insulation (And Why It’s Important)

Poor insulation can cause your heating bill to cost as much as 200% of what it would otherwise. As such, ensuring you retain a steady temperature in your home can not only help your comfort level but help your wallet too.

Whether you need a roof replacement, or are simply considering adding new roof insulation to your home, do you know what your options are?

Below, we run through not only the different types of roof insulation you might want to buy but also why you might want it in the first place. As you read each entry, consider whether you might want to get a professional to help with insulating a roof, as you likely want it done right the first time.

The Importance of Insulation

When you first build a home, there might be little between the cold (or warm) outside air and the inside aside from wood and tiles. Insulation acts as a barrier either between the outer layers of your home or on the inside, to ensure no heat transfers. It can keep your house cool on very hot days or warm on colder days, preventing the transfer of energy or air that might affect the indoor climate.

Another benefit of insulation is that it is likely to prolong the life of your roof. It can help to prevent condensation that might build up in the attic and roof spaces, leading to rot or mold. 

Insulation can also offer a better distribution of heat across the outer surface of a house. Over time, this reduces the expansion and contraction of specific areas of the building. Thus, it can reduce the onset of cracking and loosening in the home’s frame and roof.

In short, insulation has a strong impact on how energy-efficient your home is and how much money you can save in the long run. Your HVAC or air conditioning does not need to work as hard to maintain a comfortable climate, and your energy bills will see a drastic reduction.

Before You Insulate a Roof

One of the first steps toward a well-insulated roof is to conduct a thorough investigation into its current state. If you do not have any insulation, then this will be a very short process, although you will still need to determine the materials that make up your roof. This information can help you find compatible materials to use as the insulation itself.

Look for air leaks, gaps, or areas where insulation has worn away or is not providing enough coverage to maintain a climate. This will tell you how much more you need and where it needs to go. You should also discover what the material used for existing insulation is so that you can choose to add to or replace it depending on what you find.

After this, and when you have the necessary materials, you can learn more about how to insulate a roof. Make sure you take the appropriate steps depending on the material you use and consult a professional if you are unsure.

Your Roof Insulation Options

Various materials offer different advantages when it comes to insulation. By understanding your options, you can make a more informed decision to align your choice with your budget and specific needs.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass is one of the more affordable and simple-to-use insulation options in existence. It also has the advantage of being resistant to moisture and mold, making it perfect for humid climates.

Because it is easy to handle, many people use it for DIY projects, or if they want to save money. Despite this, you get what you pay for, and many other options are better choices that offer more long-term benefits.

This material comprises very fine glass fibers. As such, you must also ensure to handle it with great care and use the appropriate breathing apparatus. This prevents dust from entering your skin and lungs, which can cause long-term damage.

Cellulose

This is a loose filling that roofers blow into spaces between surfaces such as walls using a special machine. It is great for reducing the amount of air flowing between areas and is also good soundproofing material. As such, if you live near others and expect to make a lot of noise, you might want to consider cellulose as an option.

One of its downsides is that it demands a second wall to hold it in. This means it only works in certain homes, or if you plan to reduce the space available in a room.

Spray Foam

This foam is applied as a thick liquid that slowly expands and solidifies into a more rigid structure over a few minutes. It is very good at creating airtight seals and providing seamless insulation that maintains its shape.

Not only does it have strong heat resistance, but its final form prevents moisture from traveling. Though, you will need a professional to install it.

Reflective Foil

These reflective layers often see use in combination with other options. They reflect radiant heat, such as that of the sun, back out. While the foil itself might heat up, this will not happen as fast as with many other materials.

It does not provide much help against airflow or water, though, making it better alongside foam or cellulose.

Rigid Foam

Instead of a spray foam, this option uses a pre-formed flat foam that slots into existing spaces. It is perfect for flat roofs or those with a low slope, although it does not have the same ability to form a moisture barrier as spray foam.

Getting the Roofer You Need

All the above information should give you everything you need to start looking into roof insulation for your home. Still, it is a complex job and you might not want to start crawling around your attic just yet. This is where we can help you out.

We have many years of experience in the realm of insulation and ensuring the comfort of our clients. So, get in touch today to learn more about what we can do for you.