Builders and home buyers are generally correct when they think insulation is all about energy efficiency, but not all insulations are created equal. Spray foam insulations can help increase structural integrity in hurricane prone areas, and also provide significant R-value to areas where regular fiberglass insulation is difficult to install.
Foam board sheathing is also an excellent insulator and can be used outside the foundation walls of a basement, or on the inside walls of a crawlspace. Because foam board is also a vapor barrier, if installed snuggly with joints properly taped and caulked, foam board can work well on interior walls as well.
But insulation shouldn't only be thought of for walls. Insulated ducts greatly reduce heat loss and can help reduce the size of HVAC equipment needed for the home, which can save the customer money during construction or retrofit. Insulating hot water lines helps with efficiency, but also means that home owners have hot water faster to the tap.
Properly placed and installed insulation almost always reduces waste, improves comfort and is eligible for significant rebates.
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