Whether you’re planning a renovation, remodel, or building a home from the ground up, you’ve probably come across the term “R-value.” In construction and building contexts, this is a rating that measures the thermal resistance of different types of insulation. The number is determined by a variety of factors, such as thickness, density, and material type. Essentially, the higher the number, the better it is at insulating. To better understand this concept, consider the following. 

What is R-Value? 

Thermal Resistance & Conduction

To understand thermal resistance, you must understand the concept of conduction heat transfer. It’s a process in which heat moves through a material. For example, if you hold a paper cup containing hot coffee, conduction is the reason why the heat moves from the liquid through the paper cup to your hands. If you were to use a ceramic mug instead, it wouldn’t be as hot; the mug has more thermal resistance than the paper cup. If it were insulation, the ceramic would have a higher R-value than paper. As it relates to your home, the insulation in the walls, between floors, and in the attic will have different R-values because each location has a specific purpose.

Deciding on R-Value

The ideal R-Value you should use will depend on the climate in which you live, the area of the home, and even your HVAC system. Note, higher isn’t always better. If there’s too much thermal resistance in a particular room, the temperature won’t circulate. Consider the difference between the floors and the attic. The insulation used on floors should have a lower R-value since the heat needs to move through the home. Then, to prevent too much heat from escaping through the roof, the R-value must be higher. 

If you’re seeking insulation with any number of R-value for a project, contact Priority 1 Construction Service. Based in Cincinnati, OH, they’re trusted throughout the Tri-State area. With over 20 years of experience, their project managers can handle any assignment, whether it’s residential, commercial, or industrial. If you have environmental concerns, inquire about their Icynene® foam insulation! You can learn more about this product, as well as everything else they have to offer, online or by calling (513) 922-0203.