Category: energy efficiency

Fiberglass Insulation: Batts vs. Loose Fill

Fiberglass insulation is an excellent insulation material that is cost effective, energy efficient, and has acoustic properties. There are two types available: batts and loose fill.

Fiberglass insulation is an excellent insulation material that is cost effective, energy efficient, and has acoustic properties. According to the United States Department of Energy, it features between 40 and 60 percent recycled content, making it an environmentally sustainable product.

Additional benefits associated with fiberglass insulation include its thermal performance and moisture and fire resistance properties. Depending on the type, this insulating material either comes in specific R-Values – a measure of its resistance to heat flow – or can be blown in to meet ENERGY STAR’s recommendation.

There are two types available: batts and loose fill. Ideally, batt insulation should be professionally installed, as proper fit is crucial for benefitting from the material. Because loose fill insulation requires specialized equipment, it must be installed by an experienced, licensed insulation contractor.

Close-up of fiberglass insulation tool and installation in a crawl space.

Select the Right Type for the Application

Batt Insulation

A defining feature of batt insulation, also available as rolls, is its versatility. They can be installed in attics, wall cavities, and floor cavities and to a depth that meets ENERGY STAR’s recommended R-values. This insulating type must fill the area where it is being installed, meaning there can be no gaps, ensuring maximum performance.

Blown-in Loose Fill

A more efficient alternative to batts and rolls is loose fill fiberglass insulation that is blown into the attic space using truck-mounted equipment. This installation technique allows the material to fill in gaps and tight areas, where installing batts would be more difficult. Loose fill materials, when professionally installed, offer the same R-values as other fiberglass insulation types.

Hire an Insulation Contractor for Correct Fit

Banker Insulation is a full service insulation contractor with 18 valley locations to help Arizonans improve their residential or commercial property’s energy efficiency. Our company also has locations in Nevada, New Mexico, and Washington.

Banker Insulation has been installing fiberglass insulation and other types of materials since 1977. Additional services include sound attenuation and energy audits. Schedule an appointment today by contacting one of our offices.

How to Ensure Wintry Warmth

Here are some tips, including hiring an insulation contractor, about energy audits and insulation installation that will help keep your home warm this winter.

Here are some tips, including hiring an insulation contractor, about energy audits and insulation installation that will help keep your home warm this winter.

Stop Drafts and Air Leaks

It is possible to lose as much as 30 percent of conditioned air through leaks around the windows, doors, and other areas of your home. Caulking and weather stripping is an excellent method for stopping drafts in their tracks. As for air leaks, consider having an energy audit done, especially since the source is not always clearly identifiable.

An energy audit analyzes current and past utility bills to understand your energy consumption habits. The auditor will also use specialized equipment, such as a blower door test and infrared camera, to pinpoint air leaks and measure your insulation levels. Once complete, you will be provided with a list of energy efficient home improvements.

Let Daylight Fill Your Home

As soon as the sun rises in the morning, or when you wake up, open the curtains or blinds to take advantage of solar energy. Doing this can help warm your home without turning the heater up and, in turn, help lower your energy consumption. If the weather permits, consider opening your windows to improve ventilation.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

According to ENERGY STAR, the average American household spends more than $900 a year on heating and cooling costs, creating an area where saving money could be incredibly beneficial. One way to do just that is to install a programmable thermostat that you can set once and forget.

A programmable thermostat will automatically adjust the temperature based on your initial settings. An alternative option that you can monitor and control using your smartphone is a smart thermostat. These are designed to learn your habits and adjust temperatures accordingly.

Making the list of the “Best Programmable Thermostats of 2020” by Consumer Reports are thermostats from Emerson, Honeywell, and Lennox. These and other brands make excellent holiday gifts for anyone on your shopping list who may also need to improve their energy efficiency.

Hire an Insulation Contractor to Reduce Heat Flow

A contributing factor to high heating costs is insufficient or damaged insulation. That is because, when levels fall below ENERGY STAR’s recommended R-value, the material cannot adequately resist heat flow. Damaged insulation, regardless of whether it was caused by pests or water, can also impact the materials’ effectiveness.

In these situations hiring an insulation contractor to inspect your attic insulation is essential for decreasing heat transmission, helping increase your home’s energy efficiency. An insulation contractor can, upon inspection, make recommendations for adding or replacing existing materials and provide you with an accurate cost estimate.

Banker Insulation is a full service insulation contractor with 18 valley locations to help Arizonans improve their residential or commercial property’s energy efficiency. Our company also has locations in New Mexico and Washington.

Banker Insulation has been installing fiberglass insulation and other types of materials since 1977. Additional services include sound attenuation and energy audits. Schedule an appointment today by contacting one of our offices.

Everything You Need to Know About Cellulose Insulation

When used to insulate an attic, cellulose insulation will help regulate your home’s temperatures, thereby improving your comfort. It will also help save you money on high cooling costs in the summer and heating expenses in the winter.

According to ENERGY STAR, you can expect a ten percent savings on annual energy bills when you combine insulation installation with effective air sealing techniques, such as applying caulk and adding weather stripping materials around the windows and doors of your home. A professional energy audit is the most effective way to identify air leakage.

Professional installation is essential for reducing energy costs. An insulation contractor will ensure that all materials are installed correctly and at the proper depths to achieve ENERGY STAR’s recommended R-values. R-values refer to how well the insulating material can resist heat flow.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CELLULOSE INSULATION

What is it?

Cellulose is a paper-based insulating material. It usually contains more than 80 percent of recycled paper products, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious consumers. Because cellulose is a loose fill material, it can be blown-into attic spaces and densely packed in wall and floor cavities. Blown-in insulation, like cellulose, requires professional installation from an insulation company.

How will it benefit you?

  • Enhanced comfort
  • Environmentally friendly
  • Excellent thermal performance
  • It has noise reducing qualities
  • Inhibits the growth of mold
  • Minimizes insects and vermin
  • It is treated with fire retardants and, as such, has a Class I Fire Rating

Leading Insulation Company Since 1977

Banker Insulation is a full service insulation contractor with 18 valley locations to help Arizonans improve their residential or commercial property’s energy efficiency. Our company also has a location in New Mexico.

Banker Insulation has been installing fiberglass insulation and other types of materials since 1977. Additional services include sound attenuation and energy audits. Schedule an appointment today by contacting one of our offices.

Fall Home Maintenance

The dog days of summer will soon be replaced by fall’s cooler weather and stunning canvas. Fall is an ideal time to check these tasks, including ensuring adequate levels of fiberglass insulation in the attic, off your home maintenance checklist.

Inspect the Roof

Inspect the roof for any storm damage, abnormal wearing, or signs of aging. Do this from the ground by using binoculars, if necessary, and walking around the house’s perimeter. You should also check in the attic for light infiltration or damp fiberglass insulation. The latter may indicate a roof leak and insulation will need to be replaced by an experienced insulation contractor.

Fall Home Maintenance

Clean the Gutters

The gutters, if your home has them, direct rainwater away from your foundation. Dead leaves, tree needles, and the flyaway Frisbee can impact water flow by causing a blockage should they build up over time. Water then can damage your roof, insulation, siding, and foundation. Scoop out the gunk and then rinse the gutters each fall and spring – more frequently if your landscape features a lot of trees.

Check for Air Leaks

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heat gain or loss through windows accounts for between 25 and 30 percent of your heating and cooling energy use, and they are not the only thing costing you money.

Air leaks can also cause a spike in your heating and cooling costs.

Because the source of air leaks can be challenging to identify without the correct tools, consider having an energy audit done by a licensed insulation contractor. It is essential to seal air leaks and insulate to see savings.

Change Your Filters

Routinely replace the filters in your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit. A good rule of thumb is to replace inexpensive filters every 30 days for maximum efficiency.

Now more than ever before, it is recommended to select high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, which can go about 90 days before changing them is necessary.

A HEPA filter can effectively remove 99.97 percent of airborne particles such as dust, pet dander, and bacteria with a size of 0.3 microns. They can help improve indoor air quality and comfort. You can find replacement filters online or in stores.

Improve Fiberglass Insulation Levels

Another issue that may impact your energy efficiency is insufficient levels of fiberglass insulation. Fiberglass, whether loose fill or batts, provides good thermal performance at an attractive price point. It is also made of a significant amount of recycled content.

Uninsulated attics in valley homes should be insulated with an R-value – a measure of the material’s ability to resist heat transfers – between R30 and R60. Attics with existing insulation should meet a value between R25 to R38.

Banker Insulation is a full service insulation contractor with 18 valley locations to help Arizonans improve their residential or commercial property’s energy efficiency. Our company also has locations in New Mexico and Washington.

Banker Insulation has been installing fiberglass insulation and other types of materials since 1977. Additional services include sound attenuation and energy audits. Schedule an appointment today by contacting one of our offices.

This blog has been updated from a 2018 post.

The Basics of Home Energy Audits

A home energy audit, when performed by an experienced insulation contractor, can help determine where your home is consuming the most energy and identify areas for improvement. It is a cost effective way to detect air leaks, inadequate insulation, and other inefficiencies that may be causing you to spend more money to heat and cool your home than is necessary. The contractor will also provide you with a prioritized list of recommended upgrades designed to improve the efficiency and comfort of your house.

How to Prepare for an Audit

The best things you can do are make a list of energy-related concerns and compile copies of your most recent electricity bills before the insulation contractor arrives. Are you signed up for paperless billing? You can download and print invoices by logging into your account. These are useful for determining your energy use each month. Ideally, you should also open your curtains or blinds and, if applicable, clear any clutter around your attic and basement doors to ensure access.

Title card featuring an infrared heat detector: The Basics of Home Energy Audits.

What to Expect During the Audit?

A contractor, approved by your residential electricity provider, will complete a thorough inspection of the interior and exterior of the home. They will also measure the depth of your insulation to determine whether you are meeting ENERGY STAR’s recommended R-values – the materials’ ability to resist heat – which differs depending on the insulated area. The auditor will conduct a series of tests using specialized equipment such as the blower door, to detect air leaks and other problems.

Most home energy audits take between two to four hours from start to finish. Once complete, the contractor will analyze their findings and provide you with a comprehensive report detailing which home improvements should receive attention first so you can reduce your energy consumption. Get started today by scheduling an appointment with Banker Insulation at (602) 273-1261.

Leading Insulation Contractor since 1977

Banker Insulation is a full service insulation contractor with 18 valley locations to help Arizonans improve their residential or commercial property’s energy efficiency. Our company also has locations in Nevada, New Mexico, and Washington. Banker Insulation has been installing fiberglass insulation and other types of materials since 1977. Additional services include sound attenuation and energy audits. Schedule an appointment today by contacting one of our offices.

Resources:
“Energy Saver 101 Infographic: Home Energy Audits.” The U.S. Department of Energy
“Professional Home Energy Audits.” The U.S. Department of Energy

Three Advantages of Fiberglass Insulation

Since its introduction in the late 1930s, fiberglass insulation has remained one of the most popular insulating materials, and with good reason. Pre-cut rolls or batts and blown in loose-fill are the two most frequently sold types. It can be applied to attics, walls, floor cavities, and basement rim joists.

Because a tight fit is required for optimal energy efficiency, it is essential to hire an experienced and licensed insulation contractor, such as Banker Insulation. It is also recommended that any air leaks be sealed to ensure maximum efficiency.

Fiberglass insulation is predominantly manufactured using up to 60 percent recycled container glass, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, thus freeing landfill space. The glass is woven into tight fibers that trap pockets of air to slow the transference of conditioned, whether heated or cooled, air.

Title card featuring a worker hand installing fiberglass insulation: Advantages of Fiberglass Insulation.

Ways Fiberglass Insulation Can Benefit You

Cost Effective

Fiberglass insulation is the ideal choice for budget-conscious consumers. There are plenty of options in terms of R-values and types that residential and commercial consumers can select from while remaining within budget. Another cost effective option to consider, especially if moisture is a concern, like in a basement, is to choose faced insulation. That insulation uses a vapor retardant to help prevent condensation.

Sound Dampening

Fiberglass insulation is offered in different thicknesses with different degrees of sound absorption. While noise reduction increases with depth, this insulating material will not block sound transmission. There are, however, products available with added sound attenuation. These products are ideal for several applications, including home theaters and home offices, as well as other areas where you’d like to block noise.

Thermal Resistance

The R-value for fiberglass ranges between R-8 and R-40. These values measure the thermal resistance – how well the material resists heat – with a higher number offering the best performance. Contact an insulation contractor to identify the correct R-value for your area’s climate as well as where insulation is required. Make sure the material provides optimal energy efficiency by having it professionally installed.

Schedule an Appointment with Banker Insulation

Banker Insulation is a full-service insulation and energy conservation contractor with 18 valley locations to help Arizonans improve their residential or commercial property’s energy efficiency. Our company also has locations in Nevada, New Mexico, and Washington. Banker Insulation has been offering the installation of fiberglass insulation and other types of materials, along with sound attenuation services, and energy audits since 1977. Schedule an appointment today by contacting one of our offices.

4 Tips to Slash Your Summer Cooling Costs

It is only the beginning of May, and Phoenicians have already seen the first of many 100-degree days. To cool down, many people turned on the air conditioning units, subsequently raising their utility bills. Thankfully, there are practical ways to slash your summer cooling costs, such as investing in an energy audit and improving your home’s attic insulation.

Invest in an Energy Audit

The single most important thing you can do is to perform an energy audit. Conducted by a professional, like Banker Insulation, these inspections provide a clear picture of your home’s energy consumption. Professionals possess the skills and equipment needed to identify air leaks, inefficient appliances/equipment, and additional sources of energy loss. They will also measure the depth of attic insulation. You will then be provided with a detailed report with the auditor’s findings and recommendations.

Title card featuring a person measuring the depth of pink insulation with a ruler: Tips to Slash Summer Cooling Costs.

Improve Attic Insulation

Save about 15% on your summer cooling costs, along with your winter heating costs, by improving attic insulation. Additional places to add insulation include in crawlspaces, under floors, and along basement rim joists. There are plenty of options for insulating your attic, including installing new insulation or ensuring an adequate depth, as well as various material types. Fiberglass, cellulose, and spray polyurethane foam are three of the most popular and energy efficient materials for attic insulation.

Replace Worn Caulk & Weather Stripping

Your home’s windows and doors are two of the biggest culprits for energy loss. They are, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, responsible for a substantial amount of heat gain and loss that can account for between 25 and 30 percent of residential heating and cooling costs. To prevent energy loss, it’s essential to replace worn or damaged caulking around windows or invest in energy efficient windows, as well as weather stripping around doors.

Schedule an Appointment with Banker Insulation

Banker Insulation is a full-service insulation and energy conservation contractor with 18 valley locations to help Arizonans improve their residential or commercial property’s energy efficiency. Our company also has locations in Nevada, New Mexico, and Washington. Banker Insulation has been providing residential and commercial insulation, energy audits, and sound attenuation services since 1977. Schedule an appointment today by contacting one of our offices.

Quick Tips for Insulation Installation

Insulation installation is a cost effective way to improve the energy efficiency of your home. Making sure that the attic, floors, or crawlspaces in your home have an adequate level of insulation can provide substantial benefits. It can help reduce your home’s monthly heating and cooling costs as well as create a comfortable living environment. Whether adding or replacing insulation, this is a job best left to professionals who possess the skills and equipment required to ensure correct placement. Schedule an insulation installation appointment with Banker Insulation today at (602) 273-1261.

Have an Energy Audit Done

A home energy audit can reduce your monthly heating and cooling bills. Auditors use various tools such as a blower door and infrared scanner to detect sources of inefficiencies and, consequently, identify opportunities for improvement. They will also determine the type, condition, and depth of your home’s insulation. In Arizona, the recommended level of insulation ranges between R25 to R60, according to Energy Star. Consider insulation installation if the level of insulation in your attic is below that.

Title card featuring insulation being installed in a crawl space: Quick Tips for Insulation Installation.

Select Materials with a High R-Value

There are plenty of insulation types and materials available. You can select from batts and rolls, loose fill, spray foam, and rigid insulation. Materials include fiberglass, cellulose, polyurethane, mineral wool, and others. The key to choosing between the various options available is to look at the insulation’s ability to reduce heat flow, which is more commonly known as its R-value. Maximize performance by choosing a product based on its R-value. Higher values produce the best results in terms of energy efficiency.

Contact Arizona’s Leading Insulation Contractor

Banker Insulation is a full-service insulation and energy conservation contractor with 18 valley locations to help Arizonans improve their residential or commercial property’s energy efficiency. Our company also has locations in Nevada, New Mexico, and Washington. In operation since 1977, Banker Insulation provides insulation installation of the best material types for area homes and buildings. Additional services offered include sound attenuation and home energy audits. Schedule an appointment today by contacting one of our offices.

Home Maintenance Tips for Spring

While spring doesn’t start for another few weeks, at least not officially, you can get a head start on the season with these home maintenance tips. Suggestions, such as adding cellulose insulation, can potentially help you minimize your energy costs and maximize your springtime fun. There is no shortage of lively events happening in the valley, including Cactus League Spring Training, for your enjoyment as well.

Clean Your Gutters

Gutters direct rainwater away from your home’s roof and foundation. Over time, however, debris can obstruct this process. To prevent clogs, cleaning out the gunk from rain gutter in the spring is ideal, especially before Arizona’s monsoon season begins in June. Gutter guards are an aftermarket product that blocks debris from entering the gutters and causing a blockage.

Replace HVAC Filters

Maximize the performance of your HVAC unit by routinely replacing the filter. There are plenty of options for filters such as standard, high performance, and washable. A new or clean filter provides substantial benefits, including reducing allergens and pollutants from the air. You can pick up replacement filters at most any big box or local home improvement store.

Title card featuring several cleaning products and tools: Home maintenance tips for spring.

Clean Your Dryer Vent

Your dryer vent should be cleaned annually to prevent a buildup of highly flammable lint. While professionals should complete dryer vent cleaning, there are things that you can do to help prevent a fire, including cleaning the lint filter after each use and replacing fabric softener sheets with wool dryer balls. The latter helps the environment and can save you money.

Inspect Your Cellulose Insulation

Many Phoenicians will be turning on their air conditioners in the coming weeks. Inspecting and, if needed, adding more insulation can help improve the energy efficiency of your home and potentially reduce associated cooling costs. Made from recycled newsprint, blown-in cellulose insulation provides optimal thermal resistance, assuming it is installed by a licensed insulation contractor.

Check Seals Around Windows and Doors

Treated air, whether heated or cooled, can travel in an unwanted direction if your windows or doors are not correctly sealed. Inspect and replace worn weather stripping around doors and caulking around windows each year. You can find these materials at most any home improvement store. A professional energy audit can pinpoint additional sources of air loss and provide recommendations for improvement as well.

Banker Insulation is a full-service insulation and energy conservation contractor with 18 locations throughout Arizona to help residents and businesses improve their property’s energy efficiency. Our company also has locations in Nevada, New Mexico, and Washington. In operation since 1977, Banker Insulation provides cellulose insulation, sound control, and home energy audits. Schedule an appointment today by contacting one of our offices.

Spray Foam vs Fiberglass Insulation

You’ve conquered the busiest season of the year, and now it’s time to tackle that insulation problem, so spray foam insulation or fiberglass insulation? Banker Insulation has previously written about the best applications for spray foam insulation, so let’s talk about the difference between these two popular, energy-efficient insulation types.

Spray Foam Insulation

The installation of spray foam is in attics, roofing, and interior wall cavities. Spray foam is used because it expands and fills even the smallest gaps. If combined with attic air sealing, spray foam becomes a moisture barrier reducing the risk of mildew or mold.

When combined with protective coatings and other materials during construction, spray foam can produce a cool roof. In an environment like Phoenix, cool roofs can reduce your overall cooling cost.

If you’re constructing a new home or you’re renovating, this is a perfect time to use spray foam insulation in your walls. This type of insulation can have benefits such as soundproofing, energy efficiency, and better comfort within your home.

Title card featuring a wooden house toy wrapped in a blue knitted scarf: Spray foam vs fiberglass installation.

Fiberglass Insulation

Fiberglass comes in the rolled form or loose fill that’s blown in. The loose type is used in areas such as attics, walls, and floors like spray foam. This type of insulation traps air in glass fibers that slows the transfer of heat into your home or business. Another benefit of fiberglass is that it’s low-cost insulation.

Fiberglass batts can be installed without professional assistance, but it’s highly recommended that you have a professional insulation company install it for you. Professionals will have all the proper protective gear, and there will be less of a risk to you and your family. Another benefit is that the installation cost is usually cheaper than spray foam.

Fiberglass has been around the longest, which is one reason that many people choose it over spray foam because it’s more familiar. Fiberglass also tends to make less of a mess than spray foam.

Cons of Spray Foam and Fiberglass

There are three cons that homeowners and business owners should be aware of when considering spray-in insulation: cost, difficulty to apply, and the mess. While the cost to install is a drawback, the amount of money you save in the long run makes up for this.

For fiberglass, there are two disadvantages you should be aware of: it’s not as efficient and settles faster. While you’ll probably save money on the installation, you’re more likely to have to install new insulation sooner, and you may not save as much on your utility bills.

Talk to a Professional

To receive an accurate price quote, schedule a consultation with a professional. Banker Insulation is a full-service insulation and energy conservation insulation contractor serving the greater Phoenix metro area.

In business since 1977, we provide residential and commercial insulation, sound control, and other valuable services such as home energy audits.

Schedule an appointment today by contacting one of our offices.