Investing in High Performance

What is a "high performance insulation" system?

A high performance insulation system maintains long-term R-value, even in less-than-friendly climates. From cavity to stud, high performance insulation covers the entire wall surface - not just the spaces between the framing studs.

Insulation may be the best financial investment you can make. Some might tell you that there is a point of diminishing returns, where adding more insulation is no longer advantageous. On this point, we disagree.

No matter how much insulation you install, you only do it once, and pay for it once. If only that were true for the energy needed to heat and cool your home! You continue buying the gas or electricity or oil, and you pay for it as long as you live there.

In addition, the price of energy continues to rise, year after year. No degree in rocket science is required to see that the cost of energy very quickly exceeds the cost of insulating and tightening up your home. After that, you earn returns on your insulating and tightening investment as long as you live in your home. And, if and when it comes time to sell your home, it is worth more, will sell more quickly, and you are more likely to get your asking price.

Are all insulation systems the same? Absolutely not. While some types of insulation materials are more functional in residential buildings in certain climates, other materials may be more appropriate in commercial buildings in other types of climates.

In addition, one type of insulation material may not meet all the building's needs. Two or more may be required for an efficient system.

When considering an insulation system for your home or business, consider the following questions:

• What system best addresses your entire building enclosure?
• What system extends building life through exceptional wind, water and moisture protection?
• What system employs continuous insulation to block thermal bridging? *
• What system resists air infiltration?
• What system considers renewable energy sources, e.g., solar, photovoltaic, and geothermal
• What system considers net-zero and zero-energy homes and buildings?
• What system best addresses moisture infiltration (mold, mildew, associated structural damage, and reduced indoor air quality)?

We at Duerst Insulation Technicians can help you find answers to these questions, as you seek the best option for your specific requirements. Call us for an appointment or a free estimate! Or, drop us an email with your questions - we will be happy to answer them.

* When relatively high thermal conductivity materials, e.g., steel and concrete, create pathways for heat loss that bypass thermal insulation, thermal bridging occurs. This effect is most significant in cold climates during the winter when the indoor-outdoor temperature difference is greatest. The resulting impact on R-value can be significant.