Independent explanations of how to insulate a home for long Texas summers, grouped by topic.
Spray foam
- Open-cell vs. closed-cell spray foamHow the two foams differ in a hot, humid climate.
- Closed-cell spray foam R-valueR per inch, aged values and inches for common assemblies.
- Spray foam insulation problemsOdor, shrinkage, thin coverage, moisture and code gaps.
Attics
- Vented vs. unvented atticsWhere the insulation line belongs in a Texas attic.
- How much attic insulation do you need?ENERGY STAR targets and the depth in inches.
- Attic air sealingThe leaks to seal before adding insulation.
- Radiant barriersReflective foil and the sun’s radiant heat.
Materials and methods
- Cellulose vs. fiberglassLoose-fill materials compared.
- Blown-in insulation vs. battsWhich method fills the space properly.
- R-value in TexasWhat the number on the label does and does not tell you.
Costs and hiring
- Cutting Texas cooling billsWhere the savings come from.
- Choosing an insulation installerInsurance, written scope and thickness checks.