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Ductwork should be wrapped in insulation in certain locations. This includes unconditioned interior parts of the home, such as attics, crawl spaces, basement ceilings, and between floors. Duct joints should also be insulated since they're more likely to leak air than other parts of your system. Building codes in some areas also require ductwork to be insulated.

The most insulative type of insulation for behind drywall is spray foam insulation, but this is the most expensive insulation available. The most common insulation—sometimes considered the best for the value you get for the money—is fiberglass roll or fiberglass batt insulation, which is significantly more affordable but also far less insulative. The best kind of insulation for your house will also vary based on the climate in your area, your budget, and more. A professional insulation company can help you decide which type is best for your home.

Asbestos has many beneficial properties, including fire resistance, strength, and chemical resistance. It is also an excellent insulator, which is why it was used in pipe insulation and other building materials for decades. For all its benefits, asbestos is dangerous for human health, which is why it was eventually banned from use in certain products.

The amount and type of insulation your home needs depends on your location, climate, and the specific installation area (attic, walls, or floors). Your local building code will typically determine the minimum required R-value. For specific recommendations, Energy Star suggests the following R-values: homes in the Southern U.S. should have R30 to R60 in attics and R13 to R25 in floors and walls; homes in moderate climates need R38 to R60 in attics and R25 to R30 in floors and walls; and homes in northern states require R49 to R60 in attics and R25 to R30 in floors and walls.