Author: Barrier Insulation

Non Fiberglass Insulation Types

Non Fiberglass Insulation Types Phoenix

Are you searching Google for “Non Fiberglass Insulation“? If so, we put together a list of all the different types of insulation that doesn’t contain Fiberglass. Fiberglass insulation has been used for many years and is very common in Arizona homes. With advances in material sciences and understanding of how some elements affect our health many homeowners are looking for non fiberglass insulation types.

Types Of Non Fiberglass Insulation

There are 3 different types of non fiberglass insulation including:

Spray Foam Insulation

spray-foam-insulation-phoenix-azSpray foam insulation is one of the most popular choices in house insulation in today’s market. This is because it not only insulates the house, but it creates a seal. Even the best contractors cannot create an air tight seal with joints. With this expanding foam insulator these gaps can be sealed up and your home can be dramatically more energy efficient.

Loose & Blown In Insulation

blown-in-insulation-phoenix-azCellulose and mineral wool are two types of loose/blown in insulation types. There is a fiberglass option in this type of insulation so home owners wanting to stay away from fiberglass insulation will want to be very specific about what type they want their contractor to put in their home.

Reflective & Radiant Barrier Insulation

radiant-barrier-insulation-phoenix-azIn areas like Arizona radiant barrier insulations are especially effective. Many homes have their cooling ducts running through the ceilings and attic areas. In these cases keeping the attic cooler is absolutely critical in having an energy efficient home. Radiant barriers alone can reduce energy costs as much as 5-10%. Using a radiant barrier in combination with another insulation type is a great way to maximize the homes thermal efficiency and reduce energy costs year long.

Cotton Insulation

Cotton Batt Non Fiberglass InsulationCotton insulation is commonly made out of old jeans. You know those 90’s jeans you never wear anymore? There is a company called Bonded Logic that can take those unwanted jeans and turn them into denim insulation. Denim insulation is actually becoming very popular, being sold by stores, and comes in a variety of thicknesses.

Cullulose Insulation

Cellulose Non Fiberglass InsulationCellulose Insulation is comprised of nontoxic and recycled treated cardboard or newspaper, provides excellent insulation for your business or home, and costs less to install than cotton. When cellulose came out, it wasn’t that popular with homeowners because they feared that the cellulose would invite mold and critters into their home. Although, with advances in nontoxic chemicals, this type of insulation is better protected and is now flame resistant.

Wool Insulation

Wood Non Fiberglass InsulationWool insulation is mostly made out of sheep fibers. Many homeowners and business owners turn to sheep wool to keep their businesses and homes insulation. Sheep inhabit some of the most coolest climates in the world. The fibers are tightly packed to trap air and make tiny air pockets, so the insulation has the capability of releasing moisture. Also, this type of insulation is very resistant to fire to make it a safe choice to install in your home.

Soy-Based Insulation

Soy Based Non Fiberglass InsulationSome people choose not to install the 3 insulation types above because they don’t fill in the tiny cracks like spray foam insulation does. Although, there is a new product that hit the market about 10 years ago called soy-based insulation. Soy-based is very similar to spray foam insulation where it fills in cracks and is sprayed on , only it uses renewable and biodegradable resources to do it.

All of these non-fiberglass insulation types may cost a little bit more than fiberglass insulation, but the savings on your cooling and heating bills make them a more affordable option to consider.

Potential Fiberglass Insulation Dangers

In recent years OSHA (Occupational Safety & Health Administration) has required a label indicating that fiberglass insulation has the potential to be carcinogenic. In addition warning labels indicate that fiberglass can cause eye, lung and skin irritation.

Fiberglass insulation comes in two main types, rolled and loose fill. That means you will find it in rolled bats in bags, or it will be loose material that is typically a layer of material insulating the floor of your attic. When this material is disturbed by working in the attic the fibers fill the air and can irritate lungs, eyes, and skin. Long sleeve shirts, goggles, and respirators are mandatory when handling fiberglass as there is a potential developing cancer from breathing the fibrous material.

Why You Should Remove Fiberglass Insulation

In addition most of the fiberglass insulation available is coated with a resin to help prevent excessive fibers from getting loose into the air. When this resin experiences heat however it can pose a health risk. The health risk is the resin outgases a varied quantity of formaldehyde. Most experts today believe that the level is high enough to warrant insulation removal and replacement. The tighter the ducts are and the higher quality of construction will help alleviate some of these concerns. However over time when houses settle gaps naturally exist and there is a potential for exposure.

For these reasons many homeowners in Phoenix are looking for non fiberglass insulation types. Below we will examine many of the great alternatives to fiberglass that are safer for your home and family.

Insulation Removal & Installation Services

If you live in or do business in Phoenix, Arizona and could benefit from our insulation removal or insulation installation services, please give Barrier Insulation a call today at 602-499-2922 to speak with a representative.

Fiberglass Insulation Removal Services

Barrier Insulation proudly serves the Phoenix valley and can help you safely remove fiberglass insulation from your home to keep you safe.

Non Fiberglass Insulation Installation

We can help you affordably install non fiberglass insulation that will keep your home energy efficient and healthy for the whole family.

Phoenix Spray Foam Insulation Review

Spray Foam Insulation Phoenix

If you are searching for “Spray Foam Insulation Phoenix” you’re probably looking for a great insulation company in the Phoenix valley. After a recent insulation project we had a client leave a very exciting and detailed account of working with Barrier Insulation. Read on to hear more about this customer’s experience with out company.

“Foaming at the mouth; workshop is almost working”

By : James Sanders 

Hi everyone,

We foamed today with insulation, a totally new experience for me, and maybe for some of our readers as well.  So, this posting will have a few more photos than we usually have.  You might find the subject interesting, and if not, that’s OK, too.  You can always delete before you read, and I will never know.  At any rate, Jeff Finley (Phoenix Contracting Services) recommended Rick from Barrier to insulate the structure.

Spray Foam Insulation Phoenix Truck

Jeff could not have recommended a better person.  The crew from Barrier came out, fully prepared.  The truck and trailer were parked at the front of our house and the foam was then pumped through a length flexible hose.  It was raining a little this morning.  Yes, that’s a jacaranda tree in our front yard.  That tree was given to me last year as a birthday present, given to me by my wife and daughter.  The tree survived the heated summer.  In the next photo, you will able to see the flexible hose used to pump the chemicals into the workshop.

Spray Foam Insulation Phoenix Hose

Over the river and through the woods, or so it seemed.  The workshop is in our backyard, and is not easily accessed from the street.  That is really what we wanted for the shop.  We would like to keep the noise level down and remain discreet, if we can.  Rick’s crew went right to work.  There is a lot of prep work that must be done before insulation can be pumped onto the structure.

Spray Foam Insulation Phoenix Site Preparation

 

In this photo, Miguel is making sure everything is protected that needs to be protected.  I had thought about using fiberglass batts, but Jeff Finley and my friend Mario told me, ‘That is not what you want to do.”  I am glad I listened to their advice.  Besides, Miss Pat wanted me to use foam, and so, that’s what I needed to do.  Happy wife, happy life.  Before you scroll further, take a look at the walls.  This photo will be part of a before and after series.

Spray Foam Insulation Phoenix Equipment & Foam Quality Check

 

Here Miguel is checking the pressure and texture of the foam before he puts on his protective hood.  What I noticed was Miguel sprayed only a light layer over the surface, and then, the foam grew, filling itself with air.  You do not need to spray much, but you do need to be consistent.  Miguel was.  Here is a shot of Miguel in his protective gear.

Spray Foam Insulation Phoenix Even Application

 

As you can see, the foam fills the cavity completely.  Later the foam on the walls is cut back to prepare for drywall.  While Miguel sprayed, Mario from Barrier began cutting and shaping the walls.  The job lasted for quite a long time, but when the crew had finished, there was plenty to crow about.

Spray Foam Insulation Phoenix Installed & Trimmed

In this photo, you can make out how the finished product actually looks.  There is a definitive sound quality to the foam, too.  Hopefully, the machinery will not be loud enough to disturb a neighbor as well as keep me cool in the hot days of summer.  In the next photo, you can see how the windows are now surrounded with foam; every cavity.

Spray Foam Insulation Phoenix Fully Cavity Filling

In the next few photos, you can make out the cupola and its structure.  The cupola is very large and should help the cupola provide upward ventilation as well as ample headroom.  At least, such is the theory.

Cupola Spray Foam Insulation Installation

 

The massive size of the cupola can be seen.  The border of fir on the lower part of the cupola is for rope lights, hopefully providing a dramatic look from the outside, as well as offering good lighting within.  The two circles are for the port lights on the cupola walls, west and east elevation.  The port lights are from an actual boat.  The nautical ambiance is beginning to show.

Port Lights Spray Foam Insulation Installation

Here is the last photo with the port lights easily discernible.  Along the walls, the foam is the thickness of the 2×4 dimensional lumber.  At the underside of the roof, the foam varies from 5 to 7 inches, depending on the scope and pitch of the roof.  Everything looks great, and the sound reduction is amazing.  Our next adventure is drywall, and we may be able to begin with that phase as early as Saturday morning.  Well, such as it is.  Thanks for going on the tour with us.

Phoenix Spray Foam Insulation Contractor

Insulation plays a very important role in keeping Phoenix homes comfortable and saving energy. Getting the job done right the first time is critical for the quality of spray foam insulation. Hiring the right spray foam insulation contractor that has the right training, experience, and skills will ensure that you get the best installation possible.  Whether you are working on a new build project or want to remove old insulation and upgrade, we can help. To get your project started simply give us a call at 602-499-2922 or submit a request with our Contact Form.

Best Type of Home Insulation for Phoenix

Best Type of Home Insulation for Phoenix

Are you searching for the “Best Type Of Home Insulation” for Phoenix? This article covers the different options that work best in the Valley of the Sun. Manufacturers of insulation all have job to do and a product to sell.  This means that you’re going to hear a lot of voices telling you which is the superior insulation type.

It’s an important question to think about when considering the energy efficiency of your home.  Especially with rising energy costs and the intense summers we experience here in Phoenix. What’s needed to cut through all the chatter on the subject is unbiased examination of the different types of insulation.

In This Article:

  1. Home Insulation Research & Development
  2. Spray Foam As The Simple Solution
  3. Closed-Cell Spray Foam Insulation
  4. Open-Cell Spray Foam Insulation
  5. Knowledgeable Home Insulation Consumer
  6. Phoenix Home Insulation Installers

Home Insulation Research & Development

Building scientists have spent over 30 years studying how homes use and lose energy.  They’ve constructed enormous chambers to enclose walls and model homes so they could study the effects of heat, cold and wind.  Their research has delivered results that will save home owners hundreds of dollars on their energy costs year in and year out.

A fact of home ownership and the settling and aging of a home is that inevitably there will be holes, gaps and cracks.  These weak spots mean that our air conditioned and heated air is spilling right out and costing us money.  The US Dept of Energy found that the average home wastes over 30% of its conditioned air through these gaps and cracks.  In fact on a colder wintry day these effects are more apparent with the drafts blowing through our homes.

Clearly it’s more than simply R values that are going to solve the problem of these gaps and cracks wasting our hard earned money.  If air leaking out is the problem it makes sense that the best way to insulate your home is to create an air tight seal.  With strips of fiberglass insulation or panels clearly it’s not going to provide this air tight seal that we are looking for to achieve the best possible performance, and the best possible savings.

Spray Foam as the simple solution to a complex problem

Best Type of Home Insulation for Phoenix AZUsing a hose a machine distributes a combination of chemicals which mix together at the tip of the hose creating a paint like thick goo that sticks to everything it touches.  So those wires, ducts, pipes and uneven surfaces are effectively coated and sealed up air tight.

The foam begins to expand within seconds, trapping billions of tiny bubbles of gas.  It forms a uniformly even layer of insulation as it expands and ensures an air tight seal.  Precisely what insulation is meant to do, wouldn’t you agree?

Spray Foam Insulation Comes in Two Forms, Open and Close cell

Before choosing an option for your spray foam insulation it’s best to evaluate your requirements because the types have different applications and characteristics.

Closed-Cell Spray Foam Insulation

Closed Cell Spray Foam Insulation Phoenix AZThe characteristic of closed-cell spray foam is that the cells or bubbles are tightly packed together and closed.  This means that closed-cell is stronger an much more dense than open-cell foam.  It will not allow air or water to pass through it.  This is due to the fact that the bubbles are much smaller because they are filled with a gas making them a better insulator as well.  In fact closed-cell insulation tops the charts with an astounding R-7 per inch!  Closed-cell spray foam is the option for the uncompromising home owner that demands the best performance from where they invest their hard earned money.

Open-Cell Spray Foam Insulation

Open Cell Spray Foam Insulation Phoenix AZA more affordable option for home owners is open-cell spray foam insulation.  Its name is derived from the fact that the bubbles or cells never completely close.  During expansion air gets trapped between the broken bubbles.  This characteristic of open-cell spray foam means that as heat tries to pass through the foam its slowed down by billions of tiny air pockets.  Because of this difference is structure it’s much softer than closed-cell spray foam.  The difference in the formation of the open-cell foam means that water can pass through them, which can be a bad or good thing depending on the application.  Open-cell foam rates at half the R value efficiency as its close foam competitor.

Knowledgeable Home Insulation Consumers

It’s critical to understand the differences between the spray foam variants. If you’re having a new home built or an existing structure improved you should be aware of the type of spray foam your contractor is recommending, or bidding for you.  The reason being is that open-cell foam is much less expensive, but as we have discussed it’s also less effective as an insulator.  Just be aware of this difference when taking in bids and make sure that you’re getting competitive bids for the same type of service.

One solution to get the benefits of both worlds is to combined both types of foam in your home.  A thinner than normal coating of closed-cell to start, which seals the gaps, holes and cracks and then a second coat with the open-cell to get your that excellent performance of the spray foam insulation.  This means that clients with a limited budget can still get the benefits of both without the cost of going with a full closed-cell cost.

Phoenix Home Insulation Installers

The experts at Barrier Insulation can help you make the best decision for your home and your budget. No matter your budget we can help you find an affordable solution that will make your home more comfortable and more energy efficient.

If you’ve got a few questions or would like to get started on saving money on your energy costs give a call at 602-499-2922 or submit a request with our Contact Form.

Phoenix Home Insulation Types

Insight Into Old Home Insulation

Insight Into Old Home Insulation Phoenix AZ

Old homes have old home insulation, and some types are dangerous to handle. Home owners in Phoenix want to know what wall & attic insulation they have when they buy new homes or plan on renovating spaces. In the past couple of decades insulation has taken giant leaps. Leaps in performance, durability, and safety has meant improved efficiency and health for occupants. Now days to insulate your walls and attic you can use soy based or even recycled blue jeans to keep you comfortable all year long.

Older homes probably have the original insulation that was installed when the house was built. Knowing what is behind the walls is a big deal when you are dedicated to keeping your family safe, sound, and healthy. This is only more true if the yearly cleaning routine includes climbing up into the attic, or there are plans to renovate and use the space. This is what you need to understand about the three main types of insulation that is common in older homes.

Fiberglass Insulation

Old Fiberglass Home Insulation Phoenix AZWhat Is It? Fiberglass insulation is finely spun glass fibers that are tightly packed to create a lofted material. It is then made into sheets, cut into rolls, and usually backed with paper. It is also possible to spray fiberglass as loose fill into walls. It has been, and continues to be one of the most popular insulation types there is.

How Does It Work? The tiny air pockets inside of fiberglass insulation create a barrier against thermal transfer. This means both the heat and the cold outside of our homes meets that barrier when trying to come inside. The loft and compression of the material has a big effect on its performance. This is why its effect is diminished when heavy items or boxes are stored on top of it.

Potential Fiberglass Hazards

There was a time where people believed that there was a risk of carcinogen with fiberglass insulation. The world health organization has since removed this insulation material from their possible carcinogen list in 2001. While it isn’t proven to be a risk for cancer you still should use proper protection if you are working near it, or working with it. Microscopic slivers of glass can become airborne and irritate your throat, lungs, and skin.

What to do if you have it – If you need to work directly with the material make sure you wear goggles, gloves, a dust mask, a long sleeve loose fitting shirt and long pants. Otherwise it is best to just simply avoid disturbing the insulation. If you do work with your insulation make sure any dust is cleaned up and disposed of properly.

Vermiculite Insulation

Old Vermiculite Home Insulation Phoenix AZWhat Is It? Vermiculite is a light weight material used in insulation in years past. Its appearance is shiny and looks like mineral. It is a absorbent and fire retardant material that has been used in soundproofing and even to fluff up gardening soil.

How Does It Work?  It was installed by simply pouring bags of it in between ceiling joists. Its light weight and porous material acts much like the gaps between fiberglass fibers. The air pockets act as a barrier to the thermal transfer from the hot and cold weather outside. It was a very popular option during a lot of the 20th century.

Possible Vermiculite Hazards

Vermiculite as a product isn’t harmful. In fact you can still buy vermiculite at gardening stores to help fluff up your gardening soil. However one of the sources that was widely used in the United States has asbestos content in the material. This material was used until about 1990. For homeowners that have homes built before 1990 and have vermiculite insulation, you must assume that it contains asbestos. The EPA states that asbestos exposure leads to lung cancer, asbestosis, and even mesothelioma.

What to do if you have it – Don’t touch it, don’t move it, and don’t disturb it in your attic. Trying to remove the insulation yourself poses serious risks to your health. Also storage around the material is a bad idea, any boxes or items you usually store in your attic should be moved carefully. If the home needs renovations that require holes being cut into the ceiling they should only be carried out by contractors that are trained and certified to work with asbestos.

Mineral Wool Insulation

old-mineral-wool-home-insulation-phoenix-azWhat Is It? Mineral wool is an insulation material that was popular before World War II. There are two main forms of mineral wool, slag wool and rock wool. Slag wool is a byproduct that forms on the top of molten metal. Rock wool is a bit like making cotton candy from molten rock. The strands are similar to fiberglass and are tiny intertwined fibers.

How does it work? The materials are formed into batts, blankets, fiber blocks, or boards. They can be found being installed for the purpose of thermal insulation, or even soundproofing. Mineral wool can also be found in walls and attics as loose fill.

Possible Mineral Wool Hazards

Much like fiberglass insulation mineral wool particles can become airborne and pose an inhalation hazard. Care should be taken by wearing the same dust mask, goggles, and other protective clothing to prevent exposure to mineral wool. It shouldn’t be disturbed or worked with without your protective gear.

Updating Your Home’s Insulation

Some types of old home insulation lose their effectiveness, and others are down right dangerous to have in the home. Modern insulation options are better equipped to insulate, save money, and are healthier insulating materials. If you have a home that is older and contains some of these older insulation types we offer insulation removal in the Phoenix area, and we can install new modern insulation alternatives like spray foam insulation. Call  602-499-2922 or  today to get the process started.

Best Insulation For Hot Climates

If you are searching for the best insulation for hot climates, you are probably living in Arizona and starting to feel the summer’s bite.  While the purpose of insulation is to keep homes and business comfortable all year long, it is considerably hotter in the Phoenix, Arizona area, so which insulation is best for hot dry climates?

There are 4 main categories of insulation available to install in your home or business in hot climates. These are spray foam, radiant barrier, loose fill, and rolled batt. Which of these will be best for your property depends on what is already there and your budget.

1. Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation is by far the best type of insulation for hot climates as it has considerably higher R-values than other insulation types.  The R-Value of insulation is a rating of how well it does its job. Spray foam insulation is highly sought after because it has incredible R-value per inch.  This means that in exterior walls that are only 4 inches deep spray foam can deliver an effective layer of insulation in less space. Best of all spray foam expands into gaps and cracks which seals the air leaks in your home.

2. Radiant Barrier

Radiant barrier is a great option for hot climates as it doesn’t try to slow the heat from passing through the materials, it simply reflects the energy.  Radiant barrier is popular when adding a second layer of protection inside attics to keep HVAC ducting cool.  When the attic is more mild the ducts can carry the cold air more effectively to the rooms that need it.

3. Loose Fill Insulation

Loose fill insulation is a great option for attic floors and walls. It is very popular for retrofitting old walls which either have no insulation, or have insulation that has sagged with age. Loose fill is installed by a machine which blows it into the spaces needed. This is why it is also known as Blown In Insulation

4. Rolled Batt Insulation

Rolled batt insulation is one of the most common insulation types and generally what Americans think of when they imagine what insulation is like. It comes in pink or yellow rolls and is installed in between rafters and wall studs.  Staple guns are used to tack the sections in place through the paper backing the insulation is installed in.  Rolled batt is a great option for budget sensitive insulation projects.

What Is The Best Wall Insulation For Hot Climates?

Loose Fill insulation is the best wall insulation for hot climates.

What Is The Best Roof Insulation For Hot Climates?

Blown In Insulation is the best roof insulation for hot climates. However, radiant barrier should be installed as well to keep the heat from getting into your attic.

 

What Is The Best Insulation?

The best insulation for your home or business depends on your needs and budget.  While the most effective insulation type is spray foam insulation, it does come with a higher cost of installation.  Business and Homeowners installing new insulation should weigh their options against their budget and seek the professional opinion about their property’s insulation needs.

Your local insulation contractor will be able to inspect what insulation you already have and make cost effective recommendations which fit your property, your budget, and your priorities. If you are in the Phoenix Valley and looking for insulation contractors to help you with your insulation project you should consider Barrier Insulation of Phoenix.  We install every type of insulation you can imagine including spray foam, blown in insulation and more. We also have many 5-star Reviews from our satisfied customers.  If you have questions or would like to schedule insulation services please get a hold of us.

Call Today – 602-499-2922

Window Insulation For Winter

Window Insulation For Winter Phoenix AZ

It has cooled off significantly here in the Phoenix valley for the year. We have a couple of months before we can expect warm summer nights. That leaves a portion of us with single pane windows, or even simply drafty windows. This lets out the warm air from out heater and old man winter can creep in and raise our energy bills. Window insulation for winter helps keep you comfortable, and keeps the bills down.

Window Insulation Options

There are 4 great ways you can stop your windows from being the weak link in your home’s winter warming program.

Window Film

Hardware stores and online retailers sell film that can be installed to the indoor window frame. A gap of air is the insulator in this case as it takes time for thermal variances to occur. The film is typically attached with double sided tape and goes up with a bit of a wrinkle to it. The wrinkles are “ironed out” using a hair dryer. This process of applying some heat causes the film to shrink and removes the wrinkles.

Pros – Inexpensive and effective.

Cons – Window can look cloudy and shrink wrapped.

Rubber Seals

Older windows are typically made with metal frames. These frames to slide without strenuous effort were made with some gaps. Over time the metal can become bent and the window is loose in the frame. This means there are larger gaps letting in a draft that should be shored up. Rubber seals are made to stop these drafts. Homeowners can buy these rubber seals, cut them to length, and apply them around the frame and anywhere they feel a draft coming in.

Pros – Inexpensive, effective, no cloudy looking windows.

Cons – Can damage paint when removed, may leave a sticky residue.

Shades, Drapes & Curtains

Well fitted shades, drapes or curtains can also help insulate your windows. Simply having a material that is pulled across the window opening during the night can help retain heat inside your home and keep you more comfortable. Curtains are made specifically for insulating purposes. Layering standard drapes and curtains can also add some insulating properties and help keep the cold out.

Pros – They can be opened whenever you want natural light and be matched your interior design

Cons – They are a larger investment compared to seals and film.

Draft Snakes

Window sills are common areas for homes and apartments to have drafts. They tend to direct the cold air right down next to windows. These are common areas for sofas, loveseats, and beds. Draft snakes are simply large fabric tubes that are filled with dried rice or other filling and laid on the window seals, or sometimes under doors. Having these tubes by windows helps slow the transfer of drafty cold air into the living spaces.

Pros – Inexpensive and you can even make them yourself.

Cons – Does nothing to stop drafts in the frame or thermal transfer through the glass itself.

Phoenix Insulation Contractors

If you have a home in the Phoenix area there is a good chance that it was designed to have intentional drafts that were used for evaporative cooling during the summers. If insulating your windows doesn’t seem to stop your winter time drafts you need to have these gaps shored up. Our insulation inspectors and professional insulation contractors can come and find the source of your drafts and help you come up with a plan to make your home more comfortable, and use less energy. Give us a call today at either 602-499-2922 or .

What Role Does Insulation Play?

What Role Does Insulation Play? Phoenix AZ
Photo by – JillK61

The point of home insulation is to prevent sound or heat from moving from one space to another. Typically it is used in walls, attics, and floors to prevent heat or cold from moving into your living space. It can also be used to keep sound out of, or in your home. There are different types of raw materials that make up insulation, but the approach is usually the same. Materials are fabricated to create millions of tiny air pockets. The material along with the air pockets resists thermal transmission.

Insulation To Control Thermal Transfer

When the majority of people think of insulation it is heat control insulation they are thinking about. Thermal insulation is found in commercial and residential buildings in the attic, walls, ceilings, and even some floors. The outside walls and attic are the two areas that are usually most critical in keeping our homes comfortable.

The goal of thermal insulation is a very simple one, to keep either the heat or cold out of our homes. Depending on the region of the world you live in your insulation will be designed with a passive element to help accommodate the temperature swing from winter to summer. If it is always cold or hot where you live the insulation approach will be dedicated to prevent heat from entering or escaping.

R value is the term used to describe how much heat is controlled by any given insulation. The higher the number, the more effective the insulation is in preventing heat transfer. There are two ways R value is expressed in modern construction. The first is the overall R value of a structure including all building materials and the insulation, also known as RT. The second is the R value of each insulation type, also known as Rm. R values help make apple to apple decisions between various types of insulation.

Insulation To Control Sound Transfer

The word insulation also applies to the prevention of sound transfer. This can mean the sounds coming from outside your home which can disturb sleep, or it can mean sounds from your home. While all insulation also helps with refusing sounds there are dedicated acoustic insulation types. Acoustic insulation is typically only found in specialized rooms, like theater rooms in homes. It is installed in the floor, walls, and ceiling to keep the sound from disturbing others in the home, or neighbors.

If you live near a hospital, airport, or busy road you will also enjoy better sleep with insulation keeping the sound outside. There are specifically engineered products that will help keep those sounds out of your home and help you get more restful sleep.

Can’t Insulation Do Both Jobs?

Thermal insulation does reduce noise from outside and acoustic insulation does help with some heat transfer. However both are specialized for their specific purpose and lean towards their goals. For most quiet neighborhoods having thermal insulation is enough to keep the home quiet enough. However acoustic insulation can still be a good idea if there are bedrooms near other living spaces. It keeps the house sectioned off and helps people enjoy both spaces more.

What Types Of Insulation Are Available?

There are a few different types of insulation, all with their own particular benefits. Some are less expensive, and others have unmatched R values. Speak with your insulation professional about which will work best with your home.

Batt Insulation

Batt insulation is probably the most common type people think of when asked about insulation. Batts are generally made from rockwool or fiberglass. They are light panels with paper backing that are installed in between the studs in the walls and the rafters in attic spaces. Batts trap millions of tiny pockets of air between their fibrous materials.

Blown In Insulation

Another very common type of insulation is blown in insulation. Generally speaking the material is made up of cellulose or even recycled newspaper or denim.  The material is blown by a machine into the attic and lays on the floor. Insulation techs make a nice even layer of the insulation that lays on the floor of the attic.

Spray In Insulation

One of the newer and best insulation types available is spray in insulation. It comes in two variants, closed and open cell insulation. Open cell spray foam is water permeable and creates millions of tiny open pockets of air. Closed cell has one of the best  R values available because it also creates millions of tiny air pockets. However it is more effective because the pockets are closed and trap pockets of specialized gas. Each type helps to seal up gaps in the attic and the walls it is installed in.

Acoustic Insulation

Insulation that is designed to give the maximum sound resistance generally consists of much higher density material. It is often made with polymer based materials like glue or rubber. While it will help with some heat transfer the tight nature of the material is not as good as thermal insulation. It is a good product to use in conjunction with thermal insulation to get the perfect combination of comfortable temperatures in the home, and the quiet sanctuary all of us desire.

Phoenix Valley Insulation Installation

If you have a drafty home that isn’t staying warm in winter or cool in summer you probably either don’t have insulation, or have worn out insulation. The experts at Barrier Insulation will happily do an insulation inspection and help you find the weak points in your home’s thermal barrier. This will do more than keep you comfortable, but help dramatically reduce your energy bills. To get started today call 602-499-2922 or .

 

Installing Spray Foam Insulation Right

installing-spray-foam-insulation-right-arizona

Spray foam insulation, or polyurethane foam is an amazing insulator when it is applied correctly. However in the wrong or inexperienced hands it can be a sticky situation.

Homeowners tend to be more afraid to use this insulation type than they should be. There is a lot of skewed reviews and flawed science that leads to the horror stories that fill up the internet. While there are some real reasons that spray foam insulation causes people problems, it is due to improper application. Spray foam insulation’s real story is one of an incredible insulation option with very rare failures.

Spray foam insulation is also taken too lightly by some insulation companies in the country. Since the mid nineties when spray foam started seeing more installations it has been a nearly miraculous solution for insulation. The easy of application and amazing ability to stop conductive heat has lead to its near magical reputation among insulation contractors.

Doing It Right

With over 20 years of applications the mysterious nature and wonder of an easy to spray on and effective insulator has worn off. This has lead to a diminished level of quality application. The factors that affect the quality of the spray foam insulation contribute to the quality of and durability of the foam.

The mixture is a sometimes finicky, highly sophisticated chemical composite that is typically prepared at a site with various conditions. The preparation of the mixture along with the care that is given to its application directly contribute to the final quality of the insulation layer. If corners are cut or workers are not focused, you can end up with a serious mess. When it is done right you have an amazingly effective barrier of insulation that helps cut your energy costs.

Spray Foam Steps

Getting the application of spray foam insulation right, takes focus and professionalism. These are the key areas that are focused on to ensure proper installation and years of energy savings.

Hire The Right Installer

Everything that happens in the installation of your spray of depends upon who you hire. On top of selecting licensed, bonded, insured installers homeowners should consider the installers and company’s reputation for quality, safety, and service ethic. Getting the right people to do the job helps make sure the job is done right.

Choose The Right Foam

There are different manufacturers of foam, and there are different variants. There is such a thing as closed cell, and open cell spray foams. They both have advantages and disadvantages. Close cell tends to be the best insulator; however it does cost more than open cell. Open cell spray foam however is water permeable and can be good in installations that require a level of breathability.

Prep The Site

Crews need easy access to the work areas and have as clear a work area as possible. This helps get the job done right and makes sure that everyone is safe. Removing old insulation is a common part of this process. This is especially true if the surface that spray foam is being applied to has batt insulation stapled in place. Other types of insulation on the floor of the attic might be able to stay and increase the overall thermal performance of the home’s insulation. Any insulation that is old or damaged should be removed to help keep the air quality in the home healthy. After installation and during the curing period which lasts about a day ventilation is a common element of spray foam application.

Right Ratio Foam

Spray foam is nearly always made up of two parts of liquid components. The two are heated together on site and cause a chemical reaction that forms the foam. The attention to detail taken at this step is the deciding factor for air quality. Imbalanced mixtures lead to air quality problems, and are the very reason that only trained, and professional technicians should be performing spray foam mixing and application.

Apply Foam At Correct Temperatures

Spray foam bonds best to surfaces in a range of temperatures. This varies by product but spray foam should not be applied if the surface or air temperatures are excessively cold. The quality of the adhesion relies on this element to be paid attention to.

Quality Control Inspections

Even the best technicians may not get 100% coverage and that air tight seal that spray foam insulation is famous for, and that is why quality inspections are done. The spray foam can be tricky to apply evenly and the inspection phase of an installation is a step to catch and fix all gaps or voids in the layer of insulation. Meeting this common problem head on helps make the best spray foam insulation applications in the industry and helps homeowners get the biggest bang from their insulation buck.

Phoenix Valley Spray Foam Insulation

If you live in the Phoenix area and would like to hear more about spray foam insulation installation, or schedule your home for a new coating of insulation that will help save on energy give us a call at 602-499-2922 or 923-931-0637.

6 Important Steps to Prepare Your House for Winter

6 Important Steps to Prepare Your House for Winter

It’s that time of year where the leaves begin to change color, and the air gets crisp, fall has arrived and winter is on the way! That means it is time to start all the fall home maintenance tasks. We are look forward to our homes remaining warm and in good condition through a long winter. Below is a fall checklist of things homeowners should do to keep track, from Barrier Insulation.

  1. Seal Gaps and Cracks

Even the smallest gaps or cracks in doors and windows can allow cold air to come in during the winter, which means you are losing heat. This results in your home being less comfortable than it should be, while your electric bills increase more than needed. You should spend time to check gaps and cracks, then fill them using caulk as required. Replace weather strips that may be worn out or missing.

  1. Reverse the Fans

Many homeowners make the mistake that ceiling fans are only for use in summer time, but they can be important during the winter as well. It is recommended by experts that fans be switched to go clockwise and ran on low during winter months. This will help keep the hot air blow down, instead of staying by the ceiling, which helps keep your home warm easier and saves energy.

  1. Inspect Gutters and Roof

Prior to snow fall is a good time to climb the ladder and check out your gutters and the roof. You should make repairs to any leaks or missing shingles to avoid more serious damage. Gutters need to be cleaned, and repaired or replaced if needed. This helps to make sure the winter snow will melt and drain properly.

  1. Have the Furnace Serviced

Another important step is the annual maintenance for keeping the furnace working properly and allowing it to work efficiently. It also helps to increase the lifespan. The heating and cooling company you choose should look it over for any problems, while making repairs as needed. The filter will also be changed, while general tune-ups are performed to ensure the furnace is in the best condition when temperatures go down.

  1. Trim Trees and Bushes

One potential hazard homeowners face during the winter is overgrown trees and bushes. Storms during the winter can lead to branches breaking and falling into the windows or roof. Additionally, overgrown shrubs and trees are common places for pests and rodents, giving them easy access to your roof. The best time to trim trees is in the fall, before winter weather does it for you.

  1. Checking Insulation

In the event your home is lacking insulation, it will lead to your home being drafty and cold no matter how much the heat is turned up. If you are unsure if the insulation is efficient in your home, you can give us a call and we’ll come out and measure the insulation, and if needed add more. Homes that are properly insulated are much more comfortable, and provides decreased energy bills all year.

By doing these fall maintenance steps, you gain a peace of mind, but more importantly your home will become more comfortable and your energy bills will be lower, while preventing additional damages that could be more severe.

If you need help in making your home more energy efficient, contact us or give us a call at 602-499-2922 or . Learn how Barrier Insulation experts are able to ensure your home is more energy efficient.

Phoenix Fall Home Preparation

Phoenix Fall Home Preparation

Fall has arrived in the Valley of the Sun and overnight temperatures are starting to get into the 50’s. Daytime highs are still plenty comfortable, but nights are starting to get colder. This is the best time of year to get your home ready for the colder season. The holidays are already a busy time and November is a great time to get all of your home fall home preparation done in Phoenix.

Exterior Fall Home Preparation

The outside of your home needs some attention and inspection to be ready for the cold weather.

Take Care Of Trees – One of the biggest dangers to your home can be trees that are growing too close. They either hang over the roof or are right up against the wall. You don’t want the wind causing the branches to scrape against the house. There is also a danger of strong winds and a bad branch to break off and cause damage to your roof. Get your trees trimmed away from the house, and power lines. Many times the city will take care of the trees near your power lines for free, just call and let them know you think there might be a problem.

Check Your Roof – You can do a basic inspection of your roof from the ground. Look for areas where roofing material looks loose, or is missing. Keep an eye on your flashings too, they butt up against the chimney, walls, surround exhaust pipes and lay in valleys. They are a critical part of keeping you roofing in good condition.

Get The Chimney Swept – If you have a wood burning fireplace that you like to use during the winter, now is a good time to get it cleaned. While burning wood there are flammable materials and gases that go up through your chimney. Over time they collect on the chimney walls and have a potential for ignition. This can be a very dangerous situation if you have a chimney fire. Animals can also decide to create homes in your chimney so having it cleaned out protects you from having problems.

Clean Your Gutters – Leaves, twigs, and all sorts of blown debris can end up in your gutters and cause water to seep into your roof. Make sure you get a ladder or hire someone to clean out your gutters to prevent damage to your attic or insulation. Water left standing also poses a mold issue so take it serious when you are caring for your gutters and attic.

Interior Fall Home Preparation

Taking care of the outside of your home is important, but don’t miss these steps to shore up the interior of your home and help you stay safe and warm.

Look For Drafts – Drafts are energy killers and will cost you both in summer and winter. We pay plenty to the power and gas companies as it is. You will stay warmer and save on your bills if you take the time to find areas where the air is getting out of your house.  Drafts are usually coming in at cracks and gaps. Common places to look for them are plumbing vents, wiring holes, recessed lighting, attic hatches, and knee walls. This is a great time of year to caulk or seal up there gaps and help your home be more airtight.

Insulate To Save – Insulation is a big part of keeping your home comfortable in summer and winter. During the winter the heat from your home will attempt to flow through walls and into the adjacent unheated rooms. This includes the attic, basements, garages, and even simply out the walls of your home. Not having proper insulation makes your air conditioner work harder in summer, and your heater in winter. Thermal performance inspections by local insulation contractors help ensure that insulation is up to the task.

Home Safety Check – Fall is a great time to take a look at the safety device in your home. You should replace the batteries in your carbon monoxide detectors, smoke detectors, and heat sensors. With fall and winter being the time of year where there will be chestnuts roasting over the fire, you want to be sure you and your family are safe.

Phoenix Insulation Contractors

If you are worried about your energy bills and think it is your insulation that is at fault the experts at Barrier Insulation can come and help you with an inspection. They can help you prepare for the colder weather that is on it’s way and help you install insulation that will help lower your energy bills every month of the year. Call today to stay more comfortable and have lower energy bills.