California Attic Insulation R Value

R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it.
California attic insulation r value. Where you live different climates require different insulation r values. While there are additional considerations such as venting and moisture problems to take into account when you insulate under floors the united states department of energy recommends an r 25 rating in cold climates and an r 11 in warmer parts of the country. The r value of some insulations also depends on temperature aging and moisture accumulation. Insulation level are specified by r value.
The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. Minimum r 22 attic insulation unvented attics must be air sealed at roof deck eaves gables and penetrations. How much insulation should you install. These r values are a sum meaning this should be the total r value once you add up the entire depth of insulation.
Installing more insulation in your home increases the r value and the resistance to heat flow. If kraft or foil faced insulation is used it should be installed per manufacturer recommendations to minimize air leakage and avoid sagging of the insulation. The insulation s ability to resist heat flow determines its r value. When calculating the r value of a multilayered installation add the r values of the individual layers.
California title 24 2020 high performance attics walls. U factor for a wall includes the effects of framing sheathing cavity insulation continuous insulation and interior. Why attic insulation r value matters for california homeowners at this point you may be wondering why this r value matters so much especially when it s for an attic that you probably go into once a year to fetch your christmas decorations. You will need a higher r value of insulation if you live in the northeast than if you live in southern california.
Well your attic has a dramatic impact on the temperature throughout the rest of your home as well. The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and. Batt insulation should fill the wall cavity evenly. The amount of insulation recommended for your home will vary depending on a number of factors.
Recommended home insulation r values. Almost all insulation products have to tell you their r value pipe and duct insulation are the only exceptions. For the corresponding r value. The insulation must also meet the manufacturer s specified minimum weight per sq ft.
The greater the number the greater the resistance to heat movement and the better insulating factors it has.