What is R-value?
R-values are a way to measure insulation and figure out how well a material keeps heat in or out. They are measured in units of R, and they indicate how well a material resists heat loss through its exterior surface. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation properties of that material will be.
As a general rule, spray foam with closed cells has an R-value of approximately 7.0 per inch (R-7), whereas spray foam with open cells has an R-value of approximately 3.7. These R-values ought to be viewed as rough averages. Each SPF product will differ depending on its formulation.
So what should I look for when purchasing an R-value?
There is no one answer to this question because it depends on your climate and how your house is set up. Some things you might want to think about are the size of the room, how you set the thermostat, how much it costs to heat and cool the house each year, and any upgrades or renovations you might want to make in the future, such as air conditioning. This is a topic best discussed with your spray foam insulation installer
What impact does this have on my South Carolina home in Spartanburg?
R-values are one of the most important factors when it comes to selecting a home insulation system. They indicate how well a building will resist heat loss in the winter and summer, respectively.
In general, homes that use higher R-values tend to be cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Lower R-values can cause a home to become uncomfortable during hot weather or too cold during mild weather.
In some cases, walls and ceilings with higher R-values may also make a room quieter because they let less sound through. However, keep in mind that increased noise could be a sign that your insulation needs revision or replacement.
Talk to one of our spray foam experts in Upstate. They can tell you more about insulation r-values.