Insulation Services Glossary for Erie Homeowners

Closing gaps, cracks, and penetrations in the building envelope that allow air infiltration. Often more impactful than adding insulation. Erie's old homes are especially leaky.

Loose-fill insulation (fiberglass or cellulose) blown into attics and wall cavities using special equipment. The most common method for upgrading Erie attic insulation.

Pre-cut fiberglass or mineral wool panels sized to fit between standard wall studs and ceiling joists. Common in new construction. R-13 for walls, R-38 to R-49 for attics.

A diagnostic test using a powerful fan to measure a home's air leakage. Results in ACH50 (air changes per hour at 50 pascals). Identifies where Erie homes lose the most energy.

Insulation made from recycled newspaper treated with fire retardant. Blown into attics and walls. Excellent thermal performance and more eco-friendly than fiberglass.

A geographic classification based on temperature and humidity. Erie is in Climate Zone 5, requiring higher insulation levels than zones 1-4. Building codes specify minimum R-values by zone.

A comprehensive assessment of a home's energy efficiency including insulation levels, air leakage, heating system, and windows. Identifies the most cost-effective improvements for Erie homes.

A measure of insulation's resistance to heat flow. Higher R-value means better insulation. Erie's Climate Zone 5 requires R-49 to R-60 in attics and R-20 to R-25 in walls.

The perimeter boards on top of the foundation where floor joists meet the exterior wall. A major source of air leaks and heat loss in Erie homes. Best insulated with spray foam.

A rigid foam insulation sprayed as a liquid that expands and hardens. Provides both insulation (R-6 to R-7 per inch) and air sealing. Excellent for Erie's cold climate.

A softer foam insulation (R-3.5 per inch) that provides sound dampening and air sealing. More affordable than closed-cell but requires a vapor barrier in Erie's climate.

Heat loss through framing members (studs, joists) that have lower R-values than insulated cavities. Continuous insulation on the exterior addresses this problem.

A material that restricts moisture movement through walls. In Erie's climate, vapor barriers go on the warm (interior) side of insulation to prevent condensation in walls.