Homes in the Northeast often see below-freezing temperatures throughout the winter. You need to consider your home insulation if you are worried about whether the property can handle the brutal weather. Professionals use a metric known as R-value to determine if a house is properly insulated and able to withstand extreme temperatures. Here’s how to tell if the material you have has a high enough R-value. 

A Homeowner's Guide to Insulation R-Value

What Is R-Value?

Home insulation is measured in R-values per inch of thickness. The R-value measures how effectively the insulation prevents heat from leaving your home and keeps outdoor air from entering. The higher the number is, the more efficiently the insulation prevents air transfer. 

Different types of insulation products have varying R-values. For example, insulation blankets, such as batts and rolls, have among the highest R-values, while spray foam insulation offers a bit less protection. However, each house has different needs. Spray foam has sound-dampening qualities and is moisture-resistant, making it a good choice for attics that have been converted into living spaces. Batts and rolls are easy to install in attics that only serve as storage spaces.

How Much Insulation Is Sufficient for Winter?

The amount of insulation you need depends largely on the climate in which you reside. While homes in the Southern parts of the United States may be able to maintain a stable temperature and minimize air transfer with an R-value of 38, the bitter cold of the Northern climates calls for an R-value of at least 49. Some older homes only have insulation with an R-value of 15. 

You can determine whether your home is properly insulated for the winter by finding a place where you can easily check the insulation’s depth. Try accessing your attic’s insulation, where it fills the space between two joists. Use a tape measure to gauge the depth of the material. In a poorly insulated home, the layer may only be 4 to 7 inches deep. In the Northeast, home insulation should be at least 16 to 18 inches deep.

If you’re considering a home insulation upgrade to prepare your house for winter, turn to Koala Insulation of Chester County in Exton, PA. Their team offers a wide range of insulation services, including spray foam and batt insulation, to homes throughout Chester and Montgomery counties. These contractors are willing to go the extra mile for their customers, and they take pride in their honesty and transparency during every job. Visit the website to find out more about how to choose the right insulation product, and call (484) 727-8403 to request an estimate.