Weatherization & Insulation

All insulations are rated with a number called “R-value.” The higher the number, the more resistant the insulation is to heat transfer. And with a tight building envelope, insulation is better able to perform to its rated value. However, there is a point of diminishing return, where the reduction in energy costs is offset by the cost of the insulation.Whichever type of insulation you
choose, remember that it is not how much you have installed so much as it is how well it is installed. Money spent for more insulation is wasted if it is not installed properly. Insulation needs to be installed with careful attention toward minimizing voids, gaps, compression
and wind intrusion all of which can significantly reduce the effective R-value for which you paid.

Insulation Types

Typical insulation materials can be divided into just a few categories — fiberglass [batts or loose fill], cellulose and rock wool loose-fill insulation and foams [both rigid and spray-in-place]. Each has its own set of pros and cons ranging from material cost to difficulty of installation to
application needs. Remember that in spite of some manufacturer’s sales claims, each insulation type works well when installed properly and will give you the rated R-value if installed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Weatherization Rebates

Many people aren't aware that your local utility company could help you pay to insulate your home. Clean Crawl is a preferred contractor for Puget Sound Energy, Snohomish County PUD and Cascade Natural Gas. Each of these companies offer insulation rebates. To learn more about each plan you can visit http://www.cleancrawl.com/Lower-Your-Energy-Cost.html.