- Use of fiberglass batt insulation is one of the most common ways to insulate walls. Home improvement stores sell this insulation in large, precut rolls. Fiberglass Batt insulation is easy to install between the studs in walls for new home construction or if you are installing new walls in an existing home. The United States Department of Energy rates fiberglass batt insulation by what they call R-values. The R-value is a rating of heat flow, both in and out, of this type of insulation. R-values range from R-2 to R-49. The higher the R-value of fiberglass batt insulation, the better the protection you'll have against heat loss.
- Cellulose fiber insulation is a great way to insulate walls for homeowners with no plans for putting up new walls or remodeling the existing walls. Manufacturer's make cellulose fiber insulation out of materials like recycled paper, boxes, plant fibers and cotton. Cellulose fiber insulation is a type of loose fill insulation that you blow in between your wall spaces through small holes, with a machine called a hopper. The R-value of cellulose fiber insulation is comparable to those of fiberglass batt insulation.
- If you wish to use spray foam insulation, you must hire a professional. Spray foam insulation is a polyurethane foam that contractor's spray in between new walls during construction. Spray foam insulation expands as it dries, filling even the tiniest cracks and crevices.
- Rigid foam panel insulation is one of the great ways to insulate walls that are below grade. Foam panels are thin and easy to work with in wall spaces that don't have much space between the interior and exterior walls, such as existing basement walls. Rigid foam panels require the installation of a vapor barrier to help prevent moisture retention and mildew growth.
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