Best insulation pros near Cotopaxi, CO

Traditional clapboard siding, particularly with panels made from wood, is not a significant insulator on its own. However, you can keep your home cooler in summer and warmer with "insulated clapboard siding," which is a type of vinyl clapboard siding with a built-in foam insulation. Consult a local siding contractor to determine whether insulated siding is right for your home.

Structural insulated panels and rigid foam boards have the highest R-value of any insulation that contractors commonly use, with R-values reaching up to around 8.0. These types of insulation are best in extremely cold climates, but they’re generally preferred for new construction, as they can be challenging to retrofit. Blown-in and loose fill insulation provide the next best insulative value, provided the installation is done properly. It’s important to choose an insulation type that meets your needs based on climate, as maximizing R-value may not always be financially worthwhile if you live in a moderate climate.

Insulation can be made of cellulose, fiberglass, polyurethane, polystyrene, or mineral wool. Radiant barriers are often made of aluminum or other similarly reflective materials, but they will need to be paired with something else because they don’t provide heating benefits. Cellulose is among the most eco-friendly options and may be recycled when it’s past its shelf-life, whereas polyurethane and polystyrene both emit harmful compounds and will need to be handled with care during installation.

The thickness of floor insulation will depend on the R-value you plan to achieve. R-value varies on the type of material as well as its thickness and density. Insulation materials with low R-values can be layered to match the value of denser materials. As long as your floor insulation is packed tightly, seals the area from drafts, and doesn’t prevent ventilation, it can be as thick (or thin) as you need.