Insulation Basics 101–It’s All About Comfort & Savings

Let’s be honest. The type of insulation or how it is installed is probably not in the top 10 things on a homebuyer’s checklist. Why should it be? It’s not something we can see after the walls are put in, and even if we could see it, would we know what to look for? And when we compare it to, for example, stunning exotic granite countertops or designer lighting fixtures, insulation just isn’t too appealing. Yet, if a home’s interior is not comfortable, and if a utility bill is unusually high every month because of poor insulation, we’d probably wish we had paid less attention to the granite countertops and more to the insulation.

If the type of insulation used is wrong or if the correct insulation is used but not properly installed, it will be inefficient and will increase a heating or cooling bill. Choosing the right insulation and ensuring that it is properly installed is critical for homes in the Rio Grande Valley, which is located in U.S. Climate Zone 2 that has some of the hottest temperatures in the country.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT INSULATION

Code-required R-Values (a measure of the insulation’s heat resistance) is the first factor to consider. The location of the insulation, like the ceiling or exterior walls, will require different R-values. Cost is the second factor, and here is where most people make a mistake. Spray foam, for example, is more expensive than basic fiberglass insulation, but its payback in savings on utilities and enhanced home comfort will more than make up for the initial cost.

The types of insulation available on the market vary from batt and blown-in-blanket fiberglass, to open and closed cell spray foam, to rock wool, to cellulose, and to foam board insulation. The advantages and disadvantages of each are varied, and it would be impossible to choose without the help of a professional—one who has the best advice. And to make things more complicated, even if you choose the right insulation without professional help, if it isn’t installed properly, it won’t perform to its maximum R-value.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT INSULATION CONTRACTOR

Insulation only performs like insulation if it is installed properly. That applies to superior insulation like spray foam but especially to the less expensive options like batt and roll. So, what’s the best way to choose an insulation contractor who installs properly? It’s easy—look for a BUILT TO SAVE™ certified installer. These installers are experienced and trained to ensure that their work passes the visual inspections of a home energy Rater contracted by the BUILT TO SAVE™ program to make sure the insulation has been properly installed.

One such company is Valley Energy Specialist (VES), a BUILT TO SAVE™ installer who has been serving the Rio Grande Valley for over 12 years. Today, this family-owned business, operated by Robert Salinas, Jr. and his two sons, Rob and Andrew, has earned the reputation as the “go-to” place for effective and affordable insulation.

VES offers all types of insulation, from standard fiberglass insulation to superior spray foam that provides maximum R-value and home performance. Valley Energy Specialist’s experienced and knowledgeable staff can be of tremendous help in choosing the type of insulation that is right for your project.

Why guess what insulation is needed for your home? Why go anywhere else? VES does one thing, and does it right: insulation. From consultation, to personalized advice, to complete installation, Valley Energy Specialist, a BUILT TO SAVE™ installer, should be your Number 1 choice when you decide to insulate your home correctly.