Is Using Fiberglass
Insulation a Mistake?
According to industry trends, fiberglass may indeed be toppled from its throne as the king of cost effective insulation. Savvy buyers have chosen varying types of foam insulations over fiberglass for one reason or another. Some point to vapor barriers, mold problems and the elimination of ventilation. Others are swayed by heating and cooling cost savings. The sealing properties of foam are touted as the primary reason foam eliminates mold and is superior whole house insulation. And of course, a small group is enthused mainly because it is something new.
With mold claims becoming increasingly expensive, many buyers pony up the extra cash for foam insulation. Structure insulated panels (SIP's) provide the best insulation envelope, and buddy with timber framed structures amazingly well. SIPs work the best with straight traditional houses and provide the best insulated envelope.
Spray foam and advanced framing with insulation board installed beneath the siding performs almost as well as SIPs. This system could bring you the most value for your dollar, especially as many custom homes are more complicated to build than traditional designs. No lead time is required, changes and remodeling are done using conventional methods, and no special accommodations need to be arranged for the plumbing and electrical. Spray foam and standard framing without Insulboard still performs surprisingly well and eliminates moisture and mold problems - industry laymen attribute this to superior sealing properties. Because studies can be confusing and show varying degrees of performance, the following info is in simplistic form and is only a generalization of compiled reports.
General Comparison:
SIPs perform at - 10
Spray foam with advanced framing and insulboard - 9.5
Spray foam and standard framing - 7
Fiberglass insulation and standard framing - 3
In light of growing mold and rot problems, we strongly encourage you to research your options before choosing your type of insulation. Below is David South's article giving a thorough explanation of insulations values and trends.
For an in-depth and technical explanation of insulation values see David South's article.
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