What Are the Best Types of Insulation for Your Home

There are many different types of insulation for your home so it can be confusing. Getting good insulation for your house can save a lot of money on your energy bill. Here are a few to help you make your house more energy efficient.

Aerogel

Although expensive, aerogel is an innovative new insulation design which is light but very strong. Aerogels are frozen silica smoke made of 99% air. It usually comes sandwiched between PVC panels and is transparent. So this is perfect if used in windows and skylights to let natural light in. At the moment aerogels are considered the best insulators around but if not packed properly by the manufacturer they can have adverse effects on your health.

Cork

Cork is lightweight and soft and keeps its shape well when walked over. It is usually used for walls and flat roofs and has excellent sound proofing and insulating qualities. It contains suberin, a natural wax, which makes it resistant to rot, termites and fire, and it is watertight. It comes from the outer bark of older oak trees, which is stripped from the tree every 8-14 years thus giving it time to regrow.

Sheep’s Wool

Sheep’s wool has a natural microbial action and can absorb 40% of its dry weight in moisture, offering great condensation control. It will last as long as the building as it really keeps a tight fit.  It is great to keep the house cool in summer as it will reduce peak temperature by 7%  unlike other types of insulation.

Flax

This is made from the stem of a flax plant. It regulates temperature and moisture very well absorbing moisture in high humidity and releasing it again when humidity has lowered. It is 100% natural and is safe to be handled without gloves.

Soy foam

This is one of the more expensive insulators out there but it is very efficient. It is made from soy bean oil and is mixed with water and sprayed over the wall. It fills into the smallest cracks and dries very quickly. The spraying process should be done by a professional.

Foil Quilt

This is a great option for loft conversions or new homes. It consists of strong, sealed layers of aluminum foil sandwiching layers of foam. It is safe to handle and is usually delivered in rolls that can be safely cut with scissors.

Hemp

It is naturally resistant to bugs and mould, and sodium bicarbonate is added to make it resistant to fire. It is manufactured 100% pollutant free and can also be grown without pesticides. It is very good at regulating moisture and has great insulating and sound dampening properties.

Straw

Straw is very inexpensive and 100% natural but might need a little extra care to prevent decay.   It can be susceptible to moisture or insect intrusion if not treated.  It can be used to line walls or roofs or as the actual roof itself (thatched roof). Straw produces its own resin, which binds it together when tightly compressed.

When deciding which insulation is best for your home, weigh up the pros and cons. There are so many options, decide which fits your home best. Your energy bill will be a lot better for it.