Insulation Calculator

Summary: This insulation calculator will help you properly insulate your home. Proper insulation will reduce your heating and cooling costs, save energy and make your home more comfortable

Carl,

Is there some simple way to determine how much insulation a house should have?

Thank you,

Kurt

Hi Kurt,

How much insulation is enough insulation?

Well, each state has minimum insulation levels for each component of a house, such as walls and ceiling and floor, usually spelled out in local building codes.

It is important that your house at least meet these minimum standards and if possible, exceed them.

The cost of increasing or exceeding minimum insulation standards is not high and the payback is rapid.


Image courtesy of Johns Manville, Inc.

Not only do you save money on heating and cooling but you help save the environment.

Here is an installation calculator that is easy to use whether you are building a new house or trying to determine if your present home has enough insulation.

It’s the best I've seen to determine R-values.

An R-Value indicates insulating power or thermal resistance.

The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating power. Higher R-values are more effective at maximizing your energy savings and comfort.

Click here for calculator:

Image courtesy of Johns Manville, Inc.

Here are R-value charts from the U.S. Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

Below are cost-effective R values of insulation based on the geographical area information for local fuel and material costs and local weather. These R values should not be used in lieu of local building code requirements. Other local data may affect requirements.

Click to enlarge:

Be sure and read Crawl Space Insulation!

For additional information, contact your local utility and a professional insulation contractor.

Carl Heldmann