Insulation, no, Super Insulation
Everyone knows that all new homes are insulated to what is ‘code’. Is this enough though? I do not think so. ‘Code’ just states that this is the minimal amount required.
More and more homes are being ‘super insulated’. What is this you ask? It is insulation that is above code and provides for the best energy efficiency. If you heat and cool a home that is super insulated, you are only changing the temperature a few degrees. In older homes and standard construction, your temperatures are more drastic due to the heat loss. 8 inches, 12 inches, even 18 inches of insulation may not be enough to keep you home from drastically changing in temperatures.
Some methods being used for Superinsulation are SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels), ICF (Insulated Concrete Forms) and double 2×4 or 2×6 construction with standard insulation (fiberglass or foam). Now each has their own benefits and disadvantages. But in the long run the Superinsulation is a better solution than to just follow ‘code’.
I will cover each of these techniques in later blogs.
How much energy does you home use?
