Standard Batt Insulation

Fiberglass batts of insulation are the most common type of insulation used in homes.  There are several applications for them:

• Exterior Walls: The rolls of fiberglass insulation are designed to fill the space between the studs of exterior walls which are not in the basement (above-grade).  The paper is always installed facing the interior spaces because it acts as a vapor barrier to keep moisture from going through it.  For new construction or "down to the stud" remodels, fiberglass batts are ideal and cost effective.  For finished walls, see 'blown-in' or cellulose insulation.
• Attics: Rolls of fiberglass insulation do a great job of preventing heat loss in the attic through the ceiling and roof.  Batts without facing material can be installed between the joists or unfaced batts of continuous batts - known as "attic blankets" can be placed above the joists.  They can also be combined to get the maximum insulation value.  Some companies suggest adding blown-in insulation over the top of fiberglass batts as an alternative to increase the R value.
• Floors: Joists are the part of the house structure which carries the floors, ceilings and roof.  For multi-story homes, fiberglass batts are often used in the floors to reduce the transmission of sounds.
• Rim Joists: The space between joists that is above the foundation usually has a combination of fiberglass insulation and rigid foam boards.
• Other uses: Windows & Door Frames, around pipes that go through exterior walls.  Spray foam is also used for this purpose​

Blown-In Insulation

Also known as "loose-fill" insulation, it is blown or sprayed into the location using special equipment that is usually best left to professionals such as Brownsburg Insulation Service.  It works great for areas that are hard to reach or to supplement areas that already have some insulation such as wall cavities for already finished rooms.  The material used is usually cellulose, fiberglass, or mineral wool.  This is a moderately priced option.

Spray Foam Insulation

There are two types of polyurethane foam insulation:
closed cell: Closed cell spray foam insulation is very dense and acts as a tremendous vapor barrier and air barrier.  The R value of closed cell foam is 7 per inch.
open cell.   Open cell spray foam is more breathable and less dense.  It is used most in subfloors to reduce sounds and vibrations.

Rigid Foam Insulation

Rigid Foam insulation is a multi-purpose product that can be used in both commercial and residential situations to reduce air penetration and insulate against temperature extremes.  Here are some specific ways it can be utilized:

• Exterior Sheathing: Rigid foam can be used as a continuous layer of insulation for your home's exterior walls outside of the studs but before any wrap and exterior siding such as vinyl, composite or brick.
• Basements: For poured basements, where insulation will be next to masonry, rigid foam boards are the top choice because of it's ability to withstand moisture without changing or warping.
• Rim Joists: The space between joists that sit on the foundation is another common location for rigid foam boards to be used by contractors.  Usually loose fiberglass insulation is used in conjunction with it.
• Radiant Heat Floors: For a great thermal barrier below the radiant heat floors, rigid foam is a good choice.
• Other uses: Interior walls that need some soundproofing or partitioning off rooms that don't have climate control.