Compare insulation types
Which insulation fits which space.
A quick side-by-side of the materials we install. R-values are typical ranges per inch; the exact value depends on the product, so the bid lists the product and R-value for each area.
| Material | R-value per inch | Air sealing | Moisture | Sound | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Open-cell spray foam | ≈ R-3.5–3.8 | Yes, air barrier | Vapor-open | Very good | Unvented attics, walls, sound walls |
| Closed-cell spray foam | ≈ R-6–7 | Yes, air barrier | Vapor retarder at ~1.5–2 in. | Good | Metal buildings, crawl spaces, rim joists, shallow cavities |
| Blown-in fiberglass | ≈ R-2.2–2.9 | No | Does not absorb water | Fair | Attic floors, top-offs |
| Blown-in cellulose | ≈ R-3.2–3.8 | Slows air | Absorbs moisture | Good | Attic floors, dense-pack closed walls |
| Fiberglass batts | ≈ R-3.1–3.4 | No | Facing varies | Fair | New walls, additions, floors |
| Rock wool batts | ≈ R-4.0–4.3 | No | Water-repellent | Excellent | Sound walls, fire-sensitive areas, exterior walls |
Rules of thumb
How we usually recommend.
Every house is different, but these are the patterns we see most often across Central Texas.
Ducts in the attic
Open-cell foam on the roof deck brings ducts and the air handler inside the conditioned space.
Metal building
Closed-cell foam on the panels stops condensation and adds R-value without losing floor space.
Older vented attic
Air seal, add baffles, then blow in loose fill to a deep, even layer.
Quiet rooms
Rock wool in bedroom, bath and office walls for sound control and fire resistance.