Insulation Types & Materials Guide

Insulation is one of the most important, yet often overlooked, components of your roofing system. Proper insulation helps to reduce energy costs and regulate home temperature, which as industry leading roofers Denver CO based clients choose to work with, the PRQ Exteriors team knows the important factors to Colorado residents.

At PRQ Exteriors, we are your go-to residential insulation contractor, and no matter the reason you are in the market for new insulation we want to help you make an informed decision. Today, we are breaking down the differences between and benefits of the most common materials used in Denver insulation projects. Keep reading below to learn more.

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Loose-Fill Insulation

Loose-fill insulation is typically made from fiberglass or cellulose. It is blown into walls and attics by using machinery to fill hard to reach areas and eliminate cold patches. It is a less expensive insulation option, but its installation can also cause skin irritation and respiratory issues for your residential insulation contractor. Loose-fill insulation also tends to deflate overtime and can be prone to moisture build up.

Batts and Blankets

Batts and blankets is a common insulation because it is easy to install yourself and can be purchased by the roll. This type of roofing material is typically made from fiberglass, rock wool, or cotton materials.

When using batts and blankets for a Denver insulation project you should carefully consider the material. Fiberglass is widely available, but must be handled carefully as it can irritate the skin. Rock wool is more fire retardant, but tends to trap moisture which can encourage mold growth. Cotton batts are non-irritating and easy to handle, but more expensive than fiberglass or rock wool.

Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS)

Roofers Denver CO based clients love Structural Insulated Panels because of their energy saving potential, but sometimes shy away from them due to upfront cost. There are three types of SIPS: Expanded Polystyrene SIPS (EPS), Extruded Polystyrene SIPS (EXPS), and Polyisocyanurate SIPS.

EPS is the least expensive of the three options. Like XPS, EPS is lightweight and easy for your residential insulation contractor to install, but XPS is stronger and offers better moisture protection.

Polysicocyanurate SIPS offers the best heat resistance and moisture protection of the three, but is the most expensive SIPS.

Spray Foam

Spray foam is different than the others because it goes on as a liquid which helps to seal cracks and keep air inside. It is waterproof and weather resistant, but must be installed by a residential insulation contractor.

There are two kinds of spray foam: open-cell polyurethane and closed-cell polyurethane spray foam. Open-cell is less expensive, but doesn’t offer the insulation or moisture protection that closed-cell does. Most Denver insulation experts recommend closed-cell due to our harsh climate.

As your Denver insulation experts, the PRQ Exteriors team is here to answer all of your insulation questions. Give us a call today at 303-214-0703 to discuss which insulation option is right for you!