Insulation & Energy Efficiency Guide

Complete guide to home insulation for Denver's climate. Learn about insulation types, R-values, installation, and energy-saving improvements.

Save Energy

Proper insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs by 20-30% in Denver homes.

Improve Comfort

Better insulation means more consistent temperatures and fewer drafts throughout your home.

Increase Value

Energy-efficient homes are more valuable and attractive to buyers in the Denver market.

Insulation Types Comparison

Fiberglass Batts

R-2.9 to R-3.8 per inch$0.40 - $1.50 per sq ft

Best For: Standard wall and attic insulation, budget projects

Advantages

✓ Affordable
✓ DIY-friendly
✓ Widely available

Disadvantages

✗ Gaps reduce effectiveness
✗ Irritates skin
✗ Moisture sensitive

Blown-In Fiberglass

R-2.2 to R-2.7 per inch$1.00 - $2.50 per sq ft

Best For: Attics, existing walls, irregular spaces

Advantages

✓ Fills gaps well
✓ Good for existing walls
✓ Fire resistant

Disadvantages

✗ Settles over time
✗ Requires equipment
✗ Professional installation

Cellulose

R-3.2 to R-3.8 per inch$1.00 - $2.00 per sq ft

Best For: Attics, dense-pack walls, eco-conscious projects

Advantages

✓ Eco-friendly
✓ Good air sealing
✓ Fire resistant

Disadvantages

✗ Settles 10-20%
✗ Moisture sensitive
✗ Heavier than fiberglass

Spray Foam (Open-Cell)

R-3.5 to R-3.6 per inch$1.00 - $2.50 per sq ft

Best For: New construction, rim joists, crawl spaces

Advantages

✓ Excellent air sealing
✓ Fills all gaps
✓ Sound dampening

Disadvantages

✗ Expensive
✗ Professional only
✗ Off-gassing period

Spray Foam (Closed-Cell)

R-6.0 to R-7.0 per inch$2.00 - $4.00 per sq ft

Best For: Basements, exterior walls, high-performance homes

Advantages

✓ Highest R-value
✓ Moisture barrier
✓ Structural strength

Disadvantages

✗ Most expensive
✗ Professional only
✗ Permanent

Rigid Foam Boards

R-3.6 to R-6.5 per inch$0.50 - $2.00 per sq ft

Best For: Foundation walls, exterior sheathing, basement

Advantages

✓ High R-value
✓ Moisture resistant
✓ Easy to cut

Disadvantages

✗ Gaps at seams
✗ Fire concerns
✗ Requires covering

Denver Insulation Recommendations

Area	Recommended	Typical Current	Priority	Notes
Attic	R-49 to R-60	R-38 to R-49	High	Most important area. Denver's temperature extremes make proper attic insulation critical.
Walls	R-18 to R-21	R-13 to R-15	Medium	Upgrade during renovation. Blown-in insulation can be added to existing walls.
Basement Walls	R-15 to R-19	R-10 to R-15	Medium	Important for comfort and energy savings. Use moisture-resistant materials.
Crawl Space	R-19 to R-25	R-13 to R-19	Medium	Insulate walls or floor depending on whether space is conditioned.
Floors Over Garage	R-30	R-19	Low	Prevents heat loss to unheated garage. Important for comfort.

Ready to Improve Your Home's Efficiency?

Proper insulation is one of the best investments you can make in your Denver home.

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