R-15 Vs. R-49 Insulation

Where to Insulate Your Home

• Homes should be insulated from the roof down to the foundation. Areas include the attic (including knee walls), ducts, cathedral ceilings, exterior walls, basements, crawlspaces and foundations. If you're building a new home, it is better to insulate it right the first time. Coming back to reinsulate is more difficult, but it can be done. According to the Department of Energy, proper insulation of your home is one of the single most cost-effective ways to improve energy efficiency.

Increasing the R-Value

• Most homes are under-insulated. To determine the insulation needs in your area, access the United States Department of Energy calculation website. Most of today's building codes require an R-value between R-22 and R-49. If you find your home's R-value to be less than recommended, it is typically more economical to add to the existing insulation. Insulation types can be combined to boost the R-value. For example, if the existing insulation has a rating of R-22, an additional batt or blown-in insulation can be installed to increase the value.

The Dangers of Used or Existing Insulation

• If your house was insulated between 1919 and 1990, your home insulation may contain asbestos. Check to make sure your insulation is not made of vermiculite before you begin any renovation project, including adding to the existing insulation. The Ohio Department of Health recommends not disturbing any asbestos material. If a renovation project is necessary, then contact a licensed asbestos contractor. Asbestos waste should be disposed of in approved landfills only. According to the Illinois Department of Health, disturbed asbestos can produce tiny needle-like fibers that are hazardous to lungs.

The Benefits of a Home Energy Audit

• Home energy auditors use various instruments to determine which areas of the building envelope are leaking. A home energy audit will identify areas of improvement to increase home efficiency. However, most audits will not generate a cost/benefit analysis of the improvements. Weigh the improvements suggested against the initial cost outlay. Factor in how long you anticipate staying in your current residence before taking on any renovation project. Contact your utility company for energy audit professionals in your area.