Recommended R Value For Attic Wisconsin
When determining how much insulation you need don t guesstimate calculate.
Recommended r value for attic wisconsin. Where you live different climates require different insulation r values. Sps 322 32 8 a a joist spaces that extend beyond exterior walls shall be insulated with an r value of 30 or higher with insulation that completely fills the cavity including over the top of the exterior wall supporting the joists. Insulation levels are specified by r value. Add the right kind of insulation.
Here in the sheboygan county area and throughout central and southern wisconsin we are in zone 6. R value measures how well certain building insulation materials can resist heat. The higher the r value the greater the insulation performance. That s why different regions of the united states have different recommended insulation levels.
The recommended level for most attics is to insulate to r 38 or about 10 to 14 inches depending on insulation type. See the department of energy s doe ranges for recommended levels of insulation below. R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat flow. In the midwest region of the united states the u s.
Insulation level are specified by r value. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. Department of energy states that the best attic insulation has a rating between r49 and r60. R 3 windows r 5 under slabs and for any below grade foundation walls r 10 for above grade foundation walls and slab perimeter full foundations are rare in these climates r 20 for above ground walls and r 60 for attics.
The amount of insulation recommended for your home will vary depending on a number of factors. Know exactly how much you need with our project calculators. Here i recommend a 3 5 10 20 60 rule. What areas of my home need insulation.
Typical recommendations for exterior walls are r 13 to r 23 while r 30 r 38 and r 49 are common for ceilings and attic spaces. The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. While some ceilings in the southwestern part of the united states require a minimum of r 19 insulation most attics or ceiling areas require a minimum of r 38 in the ceiling. The table below shows what levels of insulation are cost effective for different climates and locations in the home.
For most homes in the southeastern wisconsin area r49 rated insulation is enough to keep homes properly insulated as it s 16 5 thick. You will need a higher r value of insulation if you live in the northeast than if you live in southern california.