Residential Insulation Options

Fiberglass Batts and Blankets

• Fiberglass insulation is available in precut strips known as batts and rolls called blankets. Insulation of fiberglass insulation of these types are the easiest to make a DIY project because they are available in standard widths. These widths are measured to fit into the framing in the walls and ceilings of most homes. Thickness is a guide to the R-value of batts and blankets.

Loose Fill Cellulose

• Cellulose is one of the types of insulation known as loose fill. Cellulose is most often installed by being blown into walls and attics. Doing this installation yourself will require renting special blowing equipment. A type of cellulose known as dense pack is capable of sealing walls or ceilings to prevent air from leaking as well as providing standard insulating properties.

Rigid Insulation

• Compressed fiberglass or plastic foam is available in board-like forms in a type known as rigid insulation. These boards are typically used beneath the siding in exterior walls as well as in house foundations. Rigid insulation provides a high R-rating despite being very thin. This thin construction makes rigid insulation the most effective choice for use in tightly confined spaces.

Spray Foam

• Another type of insulation also uses foam, but rather than being compressed into a rigid board, it remains foamy enough to be sprayed. Spray foam insulation is a good alternative to batts and blankets when insulating walls and is also effective in ceilings. A small canister of this foam is commercially available for use by homeowners for insulating plumbing pipes and places that are difficult to access.

Pipe Sleeves

• Pipes can also be insulated to protect against freezing with a special type of rolled material with a slit down one side that allows it to be slipped over the pipe. Materials used in pipe sleeve insulation include fiberglass and polythene.

Caulk and Weatherstripping

• Insulation is not limited to the more expensive types used to protect your home's walls, ceilings and attics. A truly energy-efficient house is also insulated against air escaping from or entering into the house. Caulking is an insulating material used to fill gaps around the window frame. Weatherstripping is another small-scale insulating material that is often used to fill in the gap between the floor and the bottom of an exterior door.