Adding insulation to your attic is a great way to reduce GHG emissions and improve the comfort of your home. The EPA recommends an R value between 30 and 60 for Florida attics that are not currently insulated. Aerosol foam insulation is known for its excellent performance when it comes to attic insulation. When installed correctly by certified professionals, aerosol foam insulation fills every space in the attic, making it an effective air barrier.
Closed-cell aerosol foam insulation has a high R value of around R6-R7 per inch, which is higher than that of open-cell aerosol foam and other insulating materials. Blown fiberglass is another type of insulation that is effective when used for insulating attics in hot, humid climates like Florida. It has an R value of R-2.5 per inch and is relatively inexpensive compared to aerosol foam insulation. The best general attic insulation for Florida is aerosol foam insulation. With spray foam insulation, you get the best insulation that will help regulate the internal temperature inside your home.
It is highly recommended to outsource experienced professionals who know the ins and outs of attic insulation for this type of installation. Blown fiberglass is also an effective way to cover tight spaces in the attic, allowing for better insulation. Another option is blown cellulose, which is installed as a DIY project after buying it in bags. Most local stores will allow you to rent or even use an insulating blower free of charge. Fiberglass blocks are also an option if you have a limited budget and want to install them on your own, but they won't perform as well as blown foam insulation or aerosol foam. ENERGYSTAR recommends an R value of R-38 for most homes, which translates to approximately 12 inches of insulation.
The best way to insulate your attic is with aerosol foam insulation, as it's specifically designed to seal air leaks and prevent water and mold from entering your home. Applying spray foam insulation to the attic roof will also reduce and prevent damage caused by rainwater. When considering adding insulation to the attic of your house in Florida, you should ask yourself three questions: What type of heating system does my house have? What type of insulation do I need? What is my budget? While aerosol foam insulation is usually the most expensive option, it provides the highest R value per inch compared to other insulation products. Blown fiberglass and blown cellulose are cheaper alternatives that can work well if you're looking to insulate on a budget.
