Allegheny Millwork & Lumber Carries Insulation Materials

What Types Of Insulation Are There? 

Blown-In Insulation

Blown-in insulation is a loose-fill insulation type that is commonly installed with blowing machines to efficiently cover large and irregular spaces like attics and walls.

Batt Insulation

This pre-cut insulation comes in rolls or batts and is typically made of fiberglass or mineral wool. It is easy to install and commonly used in walls, floors, and attics.

Rigid Insulation

Rigid foam insulation is available in boards or sheets made from materials like polystyrene, polyisocyanurate, and polyurethane. It has a high R-value per inch, making it great for tight spaces. These boards are commonly used for exterior wall sheathing, foundation insulation, under-slab insulation, and roof insulation.

Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation is a high-performance option that expands and hardens upon application. There are two types: open-cell and closed-cell. Open-cell foam offers thermal resistance and soundproofing, while closed-cell foam provides superior insulation, air sealing, and moisture resistance.

Applications For Insulation In Pittsburgh Homes

Attic and Crawl Space Insulation

Effective attic insulation is necessary for optimal energy efficiency as heat naturally rises and can escape through the roof. It is advised to use insulation materials with a high R-value, such as blown-in cellulose or fiberglass batts. Proper attic insulation helps regulate indoor temperatures, lower energy usage, and prevent issues like ice dams in colder regions.

What is The Best Insulation For Attics In Pittsburgh?

• Owens Corning: Offers a variety of fiberglass batt and blown-in insulation suitable for attics. Their EcoTouch PINK Fiberglas is a popular choice for its affordability and ease of installation.

• Rockwool: Stone wool insulation like Rockwool offers superior fire resistance, soundproofing, and thermal performance compared to fiberglass. It’s a good option if you prioritize these features.

• Graphite Halo Board: Not typically used in attics as it’s a rigid foam board best suited for exterior applications.

Exterior Wall Insulation

Insulating exterior walls helps create a thermal envelope that can prevent heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. Materials like spray foam, fiberglass batts, and rigid foam boards can be used to fill wall cavities and provide insulation. Effective wall insulation improves energy efficiency, comfort levels, and reduces noise infiltration from outside.

What Is The Best Insulation For Exterior Walls 

• Owens Corning: Offers various exterior wall insulation options like FOAMULAR XPS for sheathing and EcoTouch PINK Fiberglas for cavity insulation.

• Rockwool: Their ComfortBoard and Cavityrock products are designed for exterior wall applications, offering excellent thermal and acoustic performance.

• Graphite Halo Board: An excellent choice for exterior walls due to its high R-value, moisture resistance, and ease of installation.

Garage Insulation

While not always heated, insulating garages can be beneficial, especially if they are attached to the house or used as workshops. It helps to regulate temperature fluctuations, prevent pipes from freezing, and create a more comfortable space. Insulating the walls and ceiling with fiberglass batts or spray foam can be effective, but ensuring proper ventilation is essential to prevent moisture buildup.

What Is The Best Insulation For A Pittsburgh Garage? 

• Owens Corning: Fiberglass batts are a common and cost-effective choice for garage insulation.

• Rockwool: Their Safe’n’Sound products are suitable for garage walls and ceilings, offering fire resistance and soundproofing benefits.

• Graphite Halo Board: Can be used for garage walls, but its higher cost might not be justified if soundproofing and fire resistance aren’t top priorities.

Foundations & Basement Insulation 

Various insulation options, such as rigid foam insulation or spray foam, can be utilized to insulate foundation walls, preventing heat loss through the ground. Additionally, insulating basement walls with fiberglass batts or rigid foam boards can help maintain a consistent temperature while reducing moisture infiltration.

What Is The Best Basement Installation For A Pittsburgh Home? 

• Owens Corning: FOAMULAR XPS is a popular choice for foundation and basement insulation due to its moisture resistance and compressive strength.

• Rockwool: While not the most common choice, their ComfortBoard can be used for basement walls if proper waterproofing measures are taken.

• Graphite Halo Board: A suitable option for basement walls as it offers good thermal performance and moisture resistance.

Ceiling Insulation

Insulating ceilings, especially in the upper levels of a home, can help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy costs. Fiberglass batts, blown-in insulation, or rigid foam boards can be installed in the ceiling to create a barrier against heat transfer. Properly insulated ceilings can also improve soundproofing between floors and increase overall comfort.

What Is The Best Insulation For Ceilings In My Pittsburgh Home? 

• Owens Corning: Fiberglass batts or blown-in insulation are commonly used for ceiling insulation.

• Rockwool: Their stone wool batts or blown-in insulation offer superior soundproofing and fire resistance for ceilings.

• Graphite Halo Board: Not typically used for ceilings due to its rigid form factor.

Ultimately, the “best” insulation depends on your budget, priorities (thermal performance, soundproofing, fire resistance, moisture resistance), and local building codes. Consulting with a professional insulation contractor can help you determine the most suitable options for your specific needs and climate.

FAQ About Home Insulation In Pittsburgh

Why Is Insulation So Important? 

Insulation resists the flow of heat, acting as a thermal barrier. It keeps warmth inside your home in winter and blocks external heat in summer. This results in a more comfortable living environment, lower HVAC strain, and energy savings. Insulation also provides soundproofing benefits for a quieter home. Overall, insulation is an investment that improves energy efficiency, comfort, and home value.

Will Upgrading My Insulation Reduce Energy Loss? 

Upgrading your Pittsburgh home’s insulation can save you money on energy bills. Insulation reduces strain on heating and cooling systems, leading to lower energy consumption and costs. The amount saved varies depending on factors like climate, home size, current insulation levels, and type of insulation. Typically, the investment pays off in a few years, making it a wise financial choice.

How Do I Know If I Don’t Have Enough Insulation? 

Inadequate insulation can show signs such as drafts, uneven temperatures, and high energy bills. Many homes in the Pittsburgh area were built before the 1980s. They not have sufficient insulation by modern standards.

What Type Of Insulation Is Pink?

Pink insulation is commonly known as fiberglass batt insulation, which is made from spun glass fibers and comes in rolls or batts of different thicknesses. Fiberglass is a versatile and cost-effective insulation choice that can be used in walls, floors, and attics for various applications.

Does Insulation Make My Home Hot In The Summer? 

Insulation does not make your home hotter in summer, as some may think. It works by resisting heat transfer in both directions to maintain a consistent temperature. In winter, it keeps heat inside, and in summer, it prevents hot air from entering your home. Insulation blocks radiant heat and reduces the strain on your air conditioning, contributing to a cooler and more comfortable indoor environment during the summer months.

How Do I Schedule An Energy Audit? 

Many utility companies offer free or discounted energy audits. Duquesne Light, which serves much of the area, offers an Online Energy Audit and a more comprehensive audit. 

You can search online for energy auditors in your area. Organizations like the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET) can help you find qualified professionals.

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Home Energy Score program provides a directory of qualified energy assessors. Your state or local government may also offer energy audit programs or resources.