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Installing sheets of plywood over attic insulation is a popular choice, especially in storage spaces. That said, insulation works by trapping hot air—so it needs extra space to expand and be effective, or you might reduce the energy efficiency of your home. 

It’s important that you never compress the insulation by installing flooring directly on top of it. In many houses, you’ll need to install a subfloor before putting plywood over insulation in your attic.

The best type of insulation for your home depends on your specific needs, climate, and the area you are insulating. For new construction, structural insulated panels are a highly energy-efficient option that is easy to install during the building process. In very warm climates, reflective insulation can be a cost-effective choice. For cold climates, fiberglass is an excellent option due to its high R-value and resistance to settling over time. Spray foam works well in humid environments because of its moisture-resistant properties. For standard attics, loose-fill, spray foam, or blown-in insulation are all suitable options.

Yes, you should add an insulative cover to outdoor water spigots in the winter for better protection against freezing. Make sure to use waterproof insulating material—something like a towel or old shirt can actually make the faucet more prone to freezing when the material soaks up rain or snow.

The best R-value for home insulation depends on where you live and where you’re installing the insulation. Your climate zone plays the biggest role in determining the correct R-value, so be sure to know which zone you live in when determining the R-value you need.