What you need to know about home insulation

One of the most efficient ways to save energy and money at home is to properly insulate your house. Here's what you need to know about the different types of insulation and what they're used for.

Here's a list of some common insulation materials, what they're made of and some of their advantages and disadvantages.

1. Cellulose fibre

• This type of insulation is made of shredded paper or fibre pellets or boards
• It's a safe, biodegradable type of insulation
• It's also treated with borax to make fire-resistant and deter pests
• But, this insulation can settle over time, reducing its efficiency

2. Fibreglass

• Fibreglass insulation is made of loose fill, blankets, or batts
• This type of insulation is widely available, easy to install and fire-resistant
• However, the fibres of this kind of insulation may irritate skin, or emit fumes
• It's also non-biodegradable

3. Polyester

• This kind of insulation is made of batts and rolls
• It's effective, versatile, and non-toxic
• But, it must not be compressed or moistened, or it will lose efficiency.
• Also, polyester insulation is non-biodegradable

4. Reflective foil

• This type of foil insulation is made of rolls and batts (some with foil backing)
• It's the kind of insulation that's effective and it blocks moisture
• But, it needs to remain dust-free and have air space of at least 2.5 centimetres (one inch)
• And, it's a non-biodegradable insulation

5. Rock-wool

• Rock-wool insulation is made of batts and loose granules
• This kind of insulation is effective and provides good soundproofing
• But, it must not be compressed or moistened and it may irritate skin
• Rock-wool insulation is also non-biodegradable

6. Wool

• Wool insulation is made up of loose fill or batts and rolls
• It's a safe insulation that comes from a renewable source
• Wool insulation is recyclable, and biodegradable
• But, it needs to be treated against rotting and to deter vermin

• Insulation materials usually carry an R value.
• This value measures the insulation's resistance to heat flow, or, in other words, its effectiveness.
• The higher the R value, the better.
• Most materials come in ratings ranging from 1.0 to 3.5.
• Look for ceiling insulation with an R value of at least 2.5 and wall insulation with a rating of 1.0 to 1.5.
• The ideal R value for your home depends on the local climate, and there are suggested standards for different locations — contact your local authority or energy department for details.

• Loose fill is used mainly for any ceiling that's flat and confined spaces. Batts and rolls can be used for your ceiling, pitched roofs, walls and floors. Look for biodegradable materials with no health risks.
• Avoid loose-fill bulk insulation if your roof space is drafty. Alternatively, apply a sealant to its top surface to hold insulation in place.
• Keep bulk insulation dry at all times. If condensation is a problem, fit a vapour barrier — usually reflective foil — on the warm side of the insulation material. Installing roof vents will also help. Exhaust fans should be properly ducted to prevent moisture build-up in the roof.
• Avoid installing insulation within approximately nine centimetres (3.5 inches) of heating flues or exhaust fans, or on top of or within roughly 2.5 centimetres(one inch) of recessed light fittings.
• When working with fibreglass and rock-wool fibres, wear protective clothing and a mask as the fibres can irritate the skin, nose and eyes.
• If fitting insulation over wiring, check with a licensed electrician that it's safe to cover it first.

Keep these tips and this information in mind when you're looking for insulation to help you make the best choice for your home.