Proper roof insulation plays a crucial role in maintaining your home’s comfort levels and energy efficiency. If you’re considering upgrading your roof insulation, it’s important to have the right information in order to choose the best option for your needs.
At Capital Roofing, our goal is to equip homeowners with valuable insights about their homes’ key components. With a solid understanding, you can make informed decisions and get the most out of your investment.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the five most popular, energy-efficient roof insulation materials. We’ll also provide general estimates along with the pros and cons of each, helping you make the best choice for your home.
*Please note, that price ranges listed in this article may not reflect the final cost of your project. Prices are subject to change based on various factors such as local labor rates, material quality, and more. All costs established in this article are rough estimates based on average industry rates.
#1 Spray Foam Insulation
Cost: $2.75 to $7.50 per square foot
Spray foam insulation is still the most popular type of insulation in 2024, offering superior durability. The material expands as it’s applied, filling in all gaps and cracks along your roof. As a result, you get an airtight seal that will keep your home comfortable and cozy.
There are two forms of spray foam insulation for your roof: open-cell and closed-cell. If you’re dealing with moisture issues, closed-cell foam is your best option. It’s also sturdier, adding some extra support to your roofing structure.
#2 Rigid Foam Board
Cost: $2.40 and $3.75 per square foot.
A rigid foam board is another outstanding insulation option. These boards are great at keeping heat where it belongs and moisture at bay. A rigid foam board is a great choice for flat and low-sloped roofs. It’s durable and can be used with many types of roofing materials. While it might cost more upfront, the long-term savings that occur due to reduced energy costs is worth the investment.
Here’s a quick overview of different types of rigid foam board insulation options:
#1 EPS
EPS can be used in many building parts including roofs, walls, floors, and below ground. EPS is often used in concrete forms and insulated panels. It gives the most insulation value for your money, about R-4.6 per inch. EPS meets building codes, resists water, and can be made to keep bugs away.
#2 XPS
XPS is a mid-range option in terms of cost and insulation value option, giving about R-5 per inch. XPS is often used for roofs, walls, and even the basement. It can be recycled and costs around $0.42 per square foot for a 1-inch thick panel. XPS comes with or without plastic facings that can act as vapor barriers as well. Thicker or faced XPS is stronger and blocks more moisture.
#3 Polyiso
Polyiso is a foam board insulation mostly used for roofs. Its price ranges from $0.60 to $0.90 per square foot for a 1-inch thick panel. It’s a closed-cell insulation that has two facings which help it perform adequately and block moisture. The facing affects how it performs and how much moisture it blocks.
#3 Fiberglass Insulation
Cost: $0.30 to $1.30 per square foot
Fiberglass insulation is an affordable choice for roof insulation, particularly suited for attics. Available in batts, rolls, or loose-fill forms, it offers versatility for various roofing spaces. It’s also popular among homeowners for its affordability, and R-values.
Fiberglass insulation is relatively easy to install, fire-resistant, and provides decent sound insulation. However, it’s important to be aware of its drawbacks.
Over time, this insulation may settle, potentially reducing its effectiveness. Therefore, it’s important to properly install it in order to receive all the benefits and reduce the chance of potential issues. While many find that this type of insulation is DIY-friendly, hiring a professional is a wise decision as they will ensure a safe and correct application.
#4 Mineral Wool Insulation
Cost: $1.40 and $2.10 per square foot
Mineral wool insulation, otherwise known as rock wool, is a great choice if you’re environmentally conscious. It’s made from natural or recycled materials, making it an eco-friendly option for your roof insulation needs.
Mineral wool also offers excellent thermal insulation, keeping your home warm in winter and cool in summer. It’s also great at reducing outdoor noise, so if you live on a busy street, this could be a useful option to consider. As a bonus, it’s fire-resistant, adding an extra layer of safety to your home.
#5 Reflective Insulation
Cost: $0.60 to $2.40 per square foot
The last type of insulation on this list is reflective insulation, also known as a radiant barrier. This insulation serves the primary function of reflecting heat away from your living space, making it particularly effective in hot climates.
Reflective insulation is really easy to install, and it’s lightweight. However, you should keep in mind that while it’s excellent at reflecting heat, it doesn’t have as high of an R-value as some other types of insulation on this list.
How Do You Choose The Right Insulation Material for Your Home?
With so many options, figuring out the right type of insulation that will work for your home can be tough. In order to choose the right material for your roof you need to consider the following:
1. Climate
Where you live plays a big role in picking the right insulation.
- In cold areas, you need thick, heavy-duty insulation to trap heat inside your home. This keeps you warm and cozy during chilly winters.
- If you live somewhere hot, you want insulation that blocks heat from entering through your roof, known as heat transfer. This helps keep your home cool and comfortable during scorching summers.
- For those in humid climates, look for insulation that fights moisture. This is crucial in order for the insulation facings to handle moisture damage.
2. R-Value
R-value is the measurement that determines an insulation materials’s ability to resist heat flow, and will decide the thickness of your insulation. You usually want a high R-value for your roof or attic in order to provide adequate insulation.
Good roof insulation with a high R-value helps keep your whole house comfortable and saves you money on your energy bills. Talk to your contractor to learn more and discover the right R-value for your roof and home.
3. Budget
Money matters when choosing roof insulation, but it’s not just about the upfront cost. Some types of insulation might cost more to install but will also save you a lot on energy bills over time.
Cheaper options like fiberglass can work well if you’re on a tight budget, but if you can spend a bit more, options like spray foam or blown-in insulation might save you more money in the long run.
4. Installation Location
Different areas of your home may require specific types of insulation:
- Attics: High R-value materials like blown-in fiberglass or rigid foam board are recommended
- Walls: Fiberglass batts or cellulose insulation that fit snugly into wall cavities are ideal
- Floors and Crawl Spaces: Moisture-resistant options like closed-cell spray foam or extruded polystyrene (XPS) foam board are best suited for these areas
5. Sound Proofing
Good roof insulation doesn’t just control temperature, it can also make your home quieter. If you live on a busy street or in a noisy area, the right insulation can help muffle sounds from the outside. Some types of insulation are better at this than others.
For example, thick, dense materials like mineral wool or blown-in cellulose are great for soundproofing. So, when you’re thinking about roof insulation, consider how it might help create a more peaceful living environment.
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Hire the Best-Rated Roofing Contractors For Your Roof Insulation In Claremore, OK
If you are looking forward to a durable roof installation in Claremore, OK, or the nearby areas, then we are here to assist you! At Capital Roofing, our team aims to provide the homeowners of our community with top-quality roofing services.
We have a highly experienced team who can handle all kinds of roofing projects, from insulation installation to complete roof replacement, ensuring that you get the most valuable results you need for your investment.
To speak with one of our experts and discuss your unique requirements, or, for help choosing the right material for your roofing project, you can call us at (918) 260-4075.
