The Different Methods and Types of Roof Insulation

More than 35% of heat lost from the average home is due to a lack of adequate roof insulation. That’s a lot, given the roofing system’s supposed role of regulating indoor temperatures and ensuring your home stays as energy-efficient as possible. Indeed, you need to insulate your roof to achieve comfort all year round and limit the use of your cooling system (and heating system in cooler climates) during periods of extreme weather.

There are different solutions involved in insulating a pitched roof, each providing unique qualities and involving different methods of installation. Earl W. Johnston Roofing, LLC, your local pros in roof repairs and replacements, shares two of the most common.

Cold vs. Warm Roof Insulation

“Cold” roof insulation is often done as a DIY project, though roofing pros like us take a more professional approach. With this method, the insulation is laid in between the rafters or the wooden joists. This method is a low-impact way to insulate the roof because it stops cooled and heated air from escaping your home.

Meanwhile, in the “warm” roof insulation method, the material is placed under the roof instead of in between rafters. Unlike its cold counterpart, this method offers better thermal performance, reducing heat loss in your home to keep your interior comfortable whether it’s summer or winter. However, this works best when you have a higher roof profile, like a tile roofing system.

Types of Insulation Material

Whether you have a tile, metal or asphalt roof, there is a plethora of insulation materials available to choose from. Batts and blankets composed of materials such as fiberglass and other recycled fibers are some of the most common. Loose-fill insulation, meanwhile, is a material composed of fluffy strands of fiber that can fill every nook and cranny of the attic.

Other materials include structural insulation panels and spray foam insulation. Whichever material you choose, be sure to insulate your roof properly to ensure the best performance. At Earl W. Johnston Roofing, LLC, we can help you determine the type of insulation most appropriate for your home.

We are the full-service roofing company you need, with the skills and expertise required to handle metal roofing systems and other residential roofs. Call us at (954) 989-7794 to get started. You may also fill out our contact form for a free, no-obligation quote. We serve Ft. Lauderdale, Weston, and Hollywood, FL.