A survey by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) found that a typical American family spends around $1,500 in energy costs annually. With ever-increasing energy costs, energy efficiency has become a top priority for homeowners who are tackling remodeling projects like installation of windows or roof replacement. R-value is a factor you need to consider when looking to improve your home’s energy efficiency.
In this post, Universal Roofing & Exteriors explains what you need to know about R-value.
R-Value vs. U-Value
U-value and R-value are often confused by homeowners. U-value is a measure of heat gain or loss through the glass. It’s not a material rating, but a calculation of conduction properties of different materials used in making windows, doors, and skylights.
R-value is a measure of heat resistance. It determines the performance of certain materials based on their capability to reduce heat transfer. Understanding both factors will help you choose energy-efficient windows, doors and insulation for your home.
Understanding R-Value
R-value refers to resistance to heat flow offered by traditional insulation under a controlled laboratory setting. However, in real homes, heat also passes in or out through radiation and convection.
Many believe that increasing the R-value of insulation provides a consistent increase in the insulation’s ability to control energy loss. The truth is, R-8 insulation already controls 90 percent of energy loss through a material. When you upgrade to R-32 insulation, it will only reduce conductive heat flow by 7 percent. That assumes that no air passes through the insulation.
What you really need to worry about is heat loss through convection. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, convection is responsible for up to 40 percent of the total heat loss through your home. Even the best conventional insulation on the market won’t control air leakage, no matter how good of an R-value the product has. You should instead focus on what factors will affect the performance of your home’s insulation.
For energy-efficient doors, windows and siding, choose Universal Roofing & Exterior. Call us at (317) 257-0779 or complete our online form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We work with homeowners in Indianapolis, IN.
