Denver has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and freezing winters. Low-quality attic insulation leads to unwanted air drafts in summer and warm air leaking in winter, increasing energy bills. Therefore, Denver homes require insulation with a higher R-value to maintain indoor temperatures. 

To address these insulation issues, homeowners often need help choosing among the best types of attic insulation in Denver.

 Let me walk you through various attic insulation options and help you find a suitable solution. 

History of Insulation

Insulation began with natural materials like straw, mud, and animal skins to insulate dwellings from extreme temperatures.

During the Industrial Revolution, the demand for insulation grew with urbanization and modern construction. So, homeowners and builders started using different types of insulation materials in Dever, like sawdust, newspapers, and horsehair.

In 1938, Owens Corning introduced fiberglass insulation due to its effectiveness and relatively low cost. However, mineral wool (rock wool) became popular for fire resistance and soundproofing efficiencies.

These advancements, followed by the introduction of blow-in fiberglass and cellulose insulation, provided even better sealing and improved thermal efficiency in attics and walls. Besides, in the 1960s, industries started using spray foam insulation due to its higher R-value and energy efficiency. 

Types Of Attic Insulation And Their Unique Properties

Since the late 20th century, several insulation materials have been used to insulate attics in Colorado homes. However, every type of insulation material in Denver has distinctive properties. So, let’s get to know each of them one by one. 

Fiberglass Batt Insulation

It is made from light and combustible woven glass material. These spun glass fibers are DIY-friendly and come in pre-cut batts with a paper or foil facing. So, Colorado homeowners can easily fit batts between wall studs while securing them with wire or tape.

Mineral Wool

Mineral wool insulation is produced by melting minerals like rock or slag at high temperatures and spinning them into fibers. These fibers are then formed into batts or used as loose fill. However, its installation requires careful handling to ensure consistent density.

Denim Insulation

It’s an eco-friendly insulation material prepared by using recycled denim jeans fabric. It is also sold in batts or rolls that are easy to install.

Blown-in Fiberglass Insulation

This fiberglass insulation is blown into walls, attics, or floors using a machine. However, it’s a skin-sensitive material prepared in industries and needs specialized equipment for installation. Although it’s fiberglass, it provides better gap sealing.

Blown-in Cellulose

Cellulose insulation is derived from recycled paper and blown into walls, attics, or floors. It is an eco-friendly insulation material treated with borate and other chemicals. These chemicals make it insect-repellent and fire-resistant. However, for better moisture resistance, a water splash method is used by professionals. 

Spray Foam Insulation 

Spray foam is a mixture of isocyanate and polyol that is the most suitable attic insulation for irregular spaces, crevices, and cracks. It expands to fill gaps and then hardens into a rigid foam. However, it’s not DIY-friendly and needs professional installation.

Looking for Drywall or Insulation Services in the Denver Area and Beyond?

Pros And Cons Of Various Attic Insulations In Denver:

Every material has different properties, leading to certain benefits and drawbacks. However, upon careful consideration, you can take preventive measures for long-term energy benefits.

[wpdatatable id=2]

ISID has a knowledgeable team for attic insulation. We know the pros and cons of the types of attic insulation material in Denver and provide necessary solutions to handle future issues. If you consult our expert installation team, they will resolve your insulation-related problems. 

R-value Requirements And Cost Comparison:

R-value, measured in resistance per inch, indicates an insulation material’s ability to resist heat flow. Considering the climate, Denver building codes recommend higher R-values of R-38 to R-60 for better thermal regulation. 

However, different types of attic insulation in Denver provide a different level of thermal resistance. Therefore, you should choose insulation materials with a higher R-value per inch. Likewise, you can install thicker layers of lower R-value materials to achieve the required total R-value, but it will affect cost. 

Let’s check the R-value and costs of each material. 

[wpdatatable id=1]

Well, don’t get caught in this complicated calculation. My team at ISID can do the math for you and create a budget-friendly plan for highly energy-efficient insulation for your attic. 

Environmental Effects of Insulation Material

Most insulation materials are prepared using non-eco-friendly materials and high amounts of fossil energy. However, attic insulation itself is an energy-saving process. The better the insulation, the less you depend on the HVAC system. As a result, you will save energy in the long term. 

Moreover, some eco-friendly materials like cellulose and denim insulation are also available. These insulation materials are made from recycled materials and significantly reduce carbon footprint. 

At ISID, we prioritize insulation solutions that balance sustainability and under budget. Our team considers the environmental impacts of each material to help you make informed decisions for a greener home.

People Also Ask

All types of attic insulation in Denver can be used for the homes. However, you must be careful with the installation and pre-installation process. For instance, installing fiberglass without treating leakages and cracks will lead to mold growth. 

Moreover, ignoring the material thickness of spray foam can result in low-level temperature resistance.

Contact ISID for affordable insulation plans and professional service.