Get matched with top doorbell installation pros in Irvine, CA

Insulating your home's exterior walls can realize up to a 20% reduction in your monthly energy bills. This means that regardless of how much the project costs, it can begin to pay you back immediately. Additionally, adding spray foam and other high-end materials can increase the selling value of the property.

Your home's location, budget, and the type of insulation you’re using are just a few of the factors that can help you choose the right insulation. For example, blown-in insulation is typically used in attic spaces, while batts and rolls are ideal for floors and walls. Blown-in insulation is usually a good option if you're adding more insulation to an area that already has some, but not enough.

For standard 2x4 walls, the ideal insulation has an R-value between R-13 and R-15. This level of insulation, typically around 3.5 inches thick, fits well within the wall cavity. Common options include fiberglass batts and spray foam. The best choice for your home can depend on your climate; use R-value maps, like those from Energy Star, to determine the recommended level for your region. For colder climates, you might also consider adding exterior insulation for greater efficiency. Always check with your local building codes to ensure you meet any required standards.

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.