Fiberglass Insulation

Fiberglass Insulation: What You Need to Know

Fiberglass insulation, also known as glass wool or spun glass, is an essential material for energy-efficient construction. Made from recycled glass and sand, it is lightweight, durable, and highly effective at regulating indoor temperatures. In addition to its thermal properties, fiberglass insulation also provides excellent soundproofing, reducing noise transfer between rooms for a quieter indoor environment. With its affordability and ease of installation, fiberglass insulation is a great solution for both residential and commercial projects looking to enhance energy performance.

Key Features:

• Thermal Efficiency: Fiberglass insulation provides excellent thermal resistance, measured by its R-value. The R-value indicates how well the material resists heat — the higher the R-value, the better the insulation. By reducing heat transfer, fiberglass insulation helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures, keeping homes cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This efficiency lowers heating and cooling costs, making it a cost-effective and energy-saving choice for homeowners and businesses alike.
• Soundproofing Capabilities: In addition to thermal resistance, fiberglass insulation acts as a sound barrier, dampening noise between walls, ceilings, and floors. It’s ideal for creating quieter indoor spaces, whether in homes, offices, or multi-family buildings.
• Moisture Resistance: Fiberglass insulation is naturally resistant to moisture, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth. This makes it a durable choice for spaces prone to humidity, such as basements and attics.
• Non-Combustible: Composed of non-flammable materials, fiberglass insulation enhances fire safety by resisting combustion and slowing the spread of flames. Fiberglass insulation can typically withstand temperatures up to 1,000°F (537°C) without burning, making it suitable for standard fire-resistance needs. In comparison, stone insulation (such as stone wool or mineral wool) can resist temperatures up to 2,000°F (1,093°C), providing superior fire resistance for more demanding applications like industrial settings or high-risk areas.

Variants and Applications:

• Batts and Rolls:
  • Pre-cut batts are ideal for standard stud and joist spacing in walls and ceilings.
  • Rolls offer flexibility for large, open areas, allowing for customized cutting and fitting.
• Blow-In Insulation: Installed using specialized equipment, this type of insulation is ideal for filling gaps in existing walls or adding insulation to unfinished attics. It provides excellent coverage and is particularly effective for retrofitting projects.

Applications:

• Interior Walls: Improves energy efficiency and reduces noise transfer between rooms.
• Attics: Prevents heat loss during winter and keeps indoor spaces cooler in summer.
• Basements: Insulates walls to combat moisture and temperature fluctuations.

Faced vs. Unfaced Insulation:

• Faced Insulation: Comes with a vapor-retardant layer (usually kraft paper or foil) to help control moisture. Best for exterior walls, attics, and basements where humidity control is critical.
• Unfaced Insulation: Lacks a vapor barrier, making it ideal for layering over existing insulation or for interior walls where moisture is not a concern.

Eco-Friendly Option:

Fiberglass insulation is made from up to 50% recycled materials, making it a sustainable choice for eco-conscious builders. Its production requires less energy compared to some alternatives, and it contributes to lower energy consumption in buildings.

Thickness and R-Value Options:

• R-7 (2 inches): Suitable for crawl spaces and adding insulation to confined areas.
• R-11 (3.5 inches): Ideal for walls in warmer climates where less insulation is required.
• R-13 (3.8 inches): Standard-density insulation, commonly used for residential walls in moderate climates, providing a balance of insulation and affordability.
• R-15 (3.5 inches, High-Density): Offers enhanced thermal resistance for 2x4 walls, particularly in colder climates, despite having the same thickness as R-11.
• R-19 (6 inches): Suitable for attics and exterior walls in moderate climates.
• R-30 (9 inches): Recommended for colder climates and attics needing high thermal resistance.
• R-38 (12 inches): Ideal for extreme cold climates and unvented attic spaces requiring maximum thermal efficiency.

Why Choose Supply Ontime?

At Supply Ontime, we deliver high-quality fiberglass insulation with same-day service across the Greater Los Angeles area. Whether you’re renovating a home, insulating an office, or working on a commercial building, we’ve got you covered. Order fiberglass insulation now and get it delivered today!