This type of insulation may be composed of cellulose, fiberglass, or rock wool that is either produced or broken down into nodules, shreds, or granules.

Because they are small particles, it is the most convenient type of insulation for closed or tight spaces. It will easily find its place between walls, ceilings, wires etc. Loose-fill insulation is less susceptible to air leaks than fiberglass batts, which makes loose-fill a more efficient choice for insulation. Nevertheless, over time the loose-fill particles may settle, forming gaps and hence decreasing its insulating efficiency. It is important to consult with your contractor to decide where to use this type of insulation. The best places are those within easy reach in order to be aware of any changes whenever they occur.
Neither loose-fill nor cellulose insulation contain formaldehyde, which already makes it a much better choice than fiberglass batts.

This insulation is made from shredded newspapers, boxes, and wood fiber that are then pulverized into small particles. Manufacturers add different chemicals that make it resistant to fire and insects. On of the disadvantages is that cellulose absorbs more water than wool or fiberglass. Loose-fill cellulose insulation provides an R-Value of approximately 3.1 to 3.7.

This insulation may be available in loose-fill and batts. It is composed of molten glass that is blown into small fibers. When applied as loose fill, it must be blown using special machines and may be used in open areas such as attics as well as in small enclosures such as walls or small cavities. Loose-fill may provide R-Values that range from 2.2 to 2.9.

This insulation is also known as mineral fibers or man-made mineral fibers. It be found in two different materials: Rock Wool and Slag Wool. It contains an average of 75% post-industrial recycled content. Mineral wool provides an R-Value of 2.2 to 2.9.

hese foam boards offers R-Value between 5.6 and 7.0 per inch of thickness. They are both closed-cell foams, therefore providing highly efficient insulation. Polyisocyanurate or Polyiso is available in several compressive strengths. One slight disadvantage of these foam boards is that they may loose a small portion of their R-Value within the first two years until it stabilizes. Nevertheless, its R-Value will still remain higher than 6.5, still much higher than other methods.

This is a closed-cell foam board similar to MEPS. It tends to be somewhat more expensive than MEPS since it has a higher R-Value and is more consistent in density. This material has a low permeability to water vapor as well as excellent resistance to moisture absorption.

Commonly known as beadboard, MEPS is a closed cell foam that can be molded into different forms. It is made of polystyrene beads that may vary in physical properties. Density is typically one pound per cubic foot or 16 kg per cubic meter.

MEPS may be available in different facings. Facings protect insulation from air and vapor, holds the boards together, and eases fastening. Facings surfaces include kraft paper, aluminum foil and white vinyl sheets. This insulation is commonly used for roofing and wall insulations. R-Values may range from 3.8-4.3per inch of thickness.
This type of insulation may be sprayed onto any surface. After the agent sets on the surface it begins to expand creating a thick layer of the insulating agent. Spray-in insulation has great R-Values but are generally a little more expensive than other insulating methods. Although typically urethane based, many companies are now using urethane made from soybean shells. This offsets many of the airborne contaminants that the foam may cause initially. Spray-in insulation may be available in low-density, open cell and high-density, closed-cell.
This insulation is applied with special spraying equipment. As it sets, the foam expands approximately 120 times its liquid size. After it settles, it must be trimmed and the waste must be disposed of. It is the optimal choice to fill in small gaps. Open cell foams generally weigh in at 0.4-0.5 lb/ cu.ft. The higher the density of the foam, the stronger, or heavier it becomes. The R-Value in Open-Cell insulation may be close to that of fiberglass batts and Cellulose insulation. Open cell has an R-Value of approximately of 3.5, which is less than that of closed-cell foam. Polyicynene is an example of open-cell foam. Open-cell should not be used in areas where it may absorb water for it may lose its insulating efficiency.

It is one of the most efficient types of insulation available in the market. Closed-cell foam traps the reaction gasses, which increases the insulating properties (R-Value) of the material. The closed cell structure is stronger that open cell, acts as an optimal air barrier, and provides low moisture vapor permeability, as well as great resistance to water. Its application ranges from 1.7lb/cu.ft.-2.0lb/cu.ft, which according to research provides optimal strength and insulation for most building applications.

This is a highly effective insulation material made out of recycled newspaper that as it is applied, is mixed with low-toxic binders in order to adhere to the surfaces. As it sets, it builds upon itself until it forms a thick layer. When installing the damp-spray cellulose, water is added to the cellulose as it exits the hose.

Insulation batts remain the most common and easy methods of insulation in the U.S. Batts are available in fiberglass, plastic fibers, mineral wool, and natural fibers such as cotton and sheep’s wool. These are available in standard dimensions to fit standard wall studs, attics and floors, or may be hand-cut to fit different areas

Fiberglass is the most common insulation method today. This insulation may be found in medium and high density batts. Each is used for a different purpose. Denser product may be used for insulating areas with less cavity space.

Although the most common insulating product, it does require installers to take certain precautions during the installation process. Fiberglass batts are made from glass that is blown pr spun into thin fibers, and also contain formaldehyde-a gas that may cause watery eyes, and burning sensation in the eyes and throat. These factors may cause lung and skin irritation during the installation process. Some companies are now beginning to offer formaldehyde-free fiberglass batts which may help ease health concerns among installers and homeowners. Fiberglass batts provide an R-Value of approximately 2.9 to 3.8 per inch of thickness.

This insulation consists of recycled cotton and plastic fibers. One of the main benefits of this product is its softness and that it can be handled with casing itching or irritation. It also provides an R-Value similar to that of fiberglass 3.0 to 3.7 per inch of thickness. This product contains a low toxic boric acid as flame moisture and insect and rodent repellent. It is also 100% percent recyclable, has no formaldehyde off-gassing, and does not require any safety equipment.

This product is made from sheep wool, and like cotton batts, is treated against insect and rodents as well as fire and mold. This product is commonly used in other countries and quickly gaining popularity among Americans households and builders. Wool insulation is typically used to provide thermal and acoustic insulation and is capable of providing an R-Value of 3.4 to 4.2 per inch of thickness, better than cotton or fiberglass.

Zone 1 includes: Hawaii, Guam, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands.
All of Alaska in Zone 7 except for the following boroughs in Zone 8:
Bethel, Northwest Arctic, Dellingham, Southeast Fairbanks, Fairbanks N. Star,
Wade Hampton, Nome, Yukon-Koyukuk, North Slope.

Source: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/consumer/tips/printable_versions/insulation.html How Much Insulation Does My Home Need? For insulation recommendations tailored to your home, visit the DOE Zip Code Insulation Calculator at www.ornl.gov/~roofs/zip/ziphome.html.

*These recommendations are cost-effective levels of insulation based on the best available information on local fuel and materials costs and weather conditions. Consequently, the levels may differ from current local building codes.