Insulating the Ceiling
December 07, 2015
On the one hand, insulating the ceiling might sound a little excessive - but in fact, there are many benefits. This is particularly true during new construction (when everything is exposed) and in retrofit projects when other insulation work is taking place. As far as the experts are concerned, insulating the ceiling is a cost-effective installation that will ensure energy efficiency in the home, and will dramatically reduce the heating and cooling bills throughout the calendar year. The benefits are many. Heat loss during the winter will be measurably reduced. In summer, cool air will remain within the confines of the home. And quite importantly, indoor temperatures from room to room will be better balanced in summer and in winter. Overall, a good quality insulation product, when professionally installed, will practically guarantee annual savings on the utilities. The total of savings essentially makes the initial project investment a worthwhile endeavor. Home insulation, in general, should be managed professionally. It's a matter of properly assessing the unique needs of the home; it's about choosing the right product for the job; and it's critical that the installation deliver maximum product performance. Insulating the ceiling is much more than just beefing up R-Value. And any good professional will confirm that insulating the ceiling, attic, or roof is about more than just insulation. It's a project worth doing right the first time. Industry professionals focus on some fundamentals when insulating the attic - priorities that set the stage for a complete and comprehensive approach to the project. To begin with, the space must be effectively sealed - this will restrict air movement and prevent unwanted moisture from collecting. For optimum R-Value, the insulation product must be installed according to building code and manufacturer specs. Not to overlook, the space must be appropriately ventilated. Important to remember is that not all ceilings are created equal. In most homes, the attic floor is actually a flat ceiling. However, in some homes there are cathedral ceilings, and in others, there are dropped ceilings. Whatever the ceiling structure, the common denominator with insulation is to stop air leakage, and this would include properly sealing areas like HVAC ducting, conventional vents, and even light fixtures. The truth is, not many insulation products can do all of the above. Today, many professional insulation contractors are recommending Spray Polyurethane Foam as a practical insulation option. For ceiling, roof or attic, SPF envelops a space with an insulation blanket that is multi-purpose - it serves as an air barrier and vapor barrier; it insulates with very high R-Value; and it provides soundproofing at the same time. SPF is the ultimate sealer, coating a space completely - wooden crossbeams; electrical and plumbing; and all of the HVAC ductwork. A good contractor might also suggest a "hybrid" installation for the ceiling. This is a cost effective install that combines Spray Polyurethane Foam with one of the fiberglass insulation products. The products work well together, and when professionally installed will deliver excellent long-term outcomes. The "hybrid" installation assures optimum energy efficiency, lower utility bills, and much improved home comfort.
