Now that it’s early summer and starting to get hot again, you’re probably thinking of ways to stay cool and comfortable while saving money. Attic insulation is a good place to start. Are you wondering what the best type of insulation is for your small space?
Every home is unique, even if only slightly, and your local insulation company will be able to assess your situation and determine the right solutions. What is the right solution for your attic and home?
The Best Insulation for Small Attics
What is the best insulation for a small attic? This is a question you may be asking yourself. In reality, there are other questions you should be asking to determine the right type of insulation for your space. Attic size isn’t as important as:
- Where you live
- How much insulation you already have in your attic (many older homes—built in the 1970s or earlier—don’t have enough insulation)
- What type of HVAC system you have
- What is in your attic
- And more
The climate you live in, your current insulation levels and what is in your attic will be the most significant factors.
Source: energy.gov
Here in the Portland area, we are around the line between Zones 4 and 5 (you could be in either zone, depending on where you live). But in both zones, the recommended insulation levels are R38 – R60.
If you already have insulation in your attic, we can recommend the right solution—whether that’s adding more insulation on top of existing layers or removing old or damaged insulation and replacing it.
Insulation Materials
In warmer climates, radiant barriers under the roofline are often used—but in cooler climates, like northwestern Oregon, it can be more cost-effective to install thermal insulation. Spray foam can be used but fiberglass is an effective thermal solution for attics. It is available in batt and blown-in/loose-fill form.
Batt insulation works well in attics with:
- Standard joist spacing
- Few obstructions (like piping, wires, etc.)
- Sufficient headroom
Blown-in insulation works well in attics with:
- Irregular joist spacing
- Many pipes, wiring and other obstructions
- Limited headroom
- Existing insulation that fills gaps well and just needs to be topped off
No matter how small your attic is, what obstructions are in the space and what material is used, it’s recommended to make sure your space is properly air sealed and ventilated.
Ready to Insulate Your Attic?
If you’re looking for insulation contractors in the Portland, Oregon area, you’ve come to the right place. Installed Buildings Portland can help you with your project. We have experience insulating all types of attics with various materials. Contact us to learn more about our services or to get started with a free estimate!
