Recommended R-Values for Different Areas of the Home
Every area of your house has insulating materials with a certain capacity to resist heat flow. This capacity is known as R-value. While this might not be a common topic between you and your contractor, it’s nevertheless important to have a basic understanding of R-value because in the long run you’ll be the one benefiting from it.
Whether you need to fix your heating and cooling system, install a new air conditioning system or perhaps add a fireplace in your home, you should have a good understanding of what R-value is all about. R.A. Biel Plumbing & Heating, Inc. explains more below.
What Is R-Value?
R-value refers to the thermal resistance of certain insulating materials to heat flow. Higher R-value equals better insulation, with factors like the material’s thickness and density and the area’s temperature determining this designation.
Recommended R-Values at Home
Your new heating system installation providers share this basic guide covering the ideal R-values for the different parts of your home:
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Exterior walls- Walls should have a value of at least R-19.
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Sloped ceilings- This area needs to be somewhere between R-30 and R-38.
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Joist cavity under flooring- This zone can range from R-11 up to R-30.
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Attic- This section of the home should only be R-38 on days with no extreme temperatures.
You should also check out the insulating properties of heating ducts, especially if you experience extreme cold temperatures in your area. If you have poor insulation or leaks coming from your ductwork, this may be the best time to have your contractor perform new heating system installation.
In addition to heat, moisture can also affect the R-value of some areas in your home. Moisture reduces the insulating properties of certain materials, such as the components that make up your plumbing system, for example. Make sure to protect your pipes from moisture and mold growth by using R-3 insulating material to add more protection to your system. If your pipes are at all damaged, schedule plumbing repair services as soon as possible. This will help prevent major issues from arising.
Get in touch with R.A. Biel Plumbing & Heating, Inc. for all your plumbing needs. We’ve provided local homeowners with expert HVAC and plumbing services since 1988. Call us at (505) 672-7888 or (970) 884-3358.
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