Is your home required to have insulation?
Having proper insulation can make your home more energy efficient and comfortable throughout the year. It is particularly true in Florida, where homeowners usually have their AC units turned on most of the time. While this helps you stay fresh and cool, it can also lead to high energy bills. Thus, installing insulation is a cost-effective solution to this dilemma.
To help you find the right amount and type of insulation for your home, here are the insulation requirements in Florida.
Florida Insulation Requirements
The US Department of Energy outlines insulation requirements you need to follow based on your location. For Florida, which is part of Zone 2, the recommended R-values are as follows:
- Uninsulated attic – R30 to R60
- Attic with existing insulation of three to four inches – R25 to R38
- Floor – R13 to R19
Other insulation requirements in Florida include the following:
- Framed wall insulation – at least R13
- Interior insulation in block walls – at least R7.8
- Exterior insulation in block walls – R6
- Ceiling insulation – higher than R30
- Raised floor – at least R13
Types of Insulation
Aside from knowing the Insulation Requirements, another important consideration with insulation installation is the material to use. Like the R-value, insulation types also come in a variety, with the suitability depending on:
Blown-in
Blown-in, also known as loose-fill insulation, is one of the most popular insulation systems since it is the perfect choice for attic and small spaces that are hard to reach. It is applied through a machine that blows the insulation, usually fiberglass or cellulose, into the desired space. It works for virtually any location — big or small, narrow, or wide. This is your best and most efficient option for attic insulation.
Rolls and Batts
It is one of the most familiar types of insulation, which is used in ceilings, floors, and walls. It is often made with fiberglass and can easily fit into floor joists, wall studs, and beams. The rolls or batts need to be cut precisely to fit the space you plan to put them in, so getting professional help for installation will be best.
Spray Foam
Spray foam insulation is best used for areas that are already insulated but need extra levels of insulation to fulfill Insulation Requirements or maximize energy efficiency. It helps seal gaps and prevent air leaks in your home so that you can maintain indoor temperatures and avoid letting outdoor air enter.
Rigid Foam Panels
If you have some unfinished walls or floors that need to be insulated, rigid foam panels is another choice. They are made with polystyrene, polyurethane, or polyisocyanurate, thus providing good insulation without being too thick. If you use this for exterior walls, make sure you also get weatherproof facing to preserve your home’s structure.
Reflective Barrier
Reflective barrier insulation is slightly different from most others since it works by preventing heat from entering your home or reflecting it away. This makes it effective for areas like Florida, where the weather tends to be warm throughout the year. Conversely, it is not as effective at retaining warm air, so it is not the best choice for a colder climate zone.
Work with Professionals to Get Quality Home Insulation Today
Need help following your local Insulation Requirements? Joe Blows Insulation can help you out. We offer attic insulation installation, air sealing, and insulation removal services to help you reduce your home’s energy consumption and keep temperatures consistent. Call us today and schedule your free consultation today.