Fiberglass vs. Spray Foam: Which Insulation Is Right for Your Attic?
In the realm of home insulation, the battle between spray foam and fiberglass has been ongoing. While both have been popular choices, spray foam insulation stands out for its ability to create a cooler, more energy-efficient home—especially crucial in Central Florida’s hot and humid climate.
1. Fiberglass Creates a Superheated Attic and Moisture Problems
Fiberglass insulation is typically laid on the attic floor, leaving the attic space uninsulated and exposed to extreme heat. With your living space at a comfortable 75°F and the attic soaring above 130°F, the significant temperature difference causes hot, humid attic air to condense on cooler ceiling surfaces. This condensation fosters mold and mildew growth, compromising indoor air quality and potentially affecting your family’s health.
The intense heat also seeps into your home through the ceiling and ductwork, making your living spaces warmer and causing your AC to work harder. This not only increases energy consumption and utility bills but also accelerates wear on your cooling system.
2. Spray Foam Conditions Your Attic and Prevents Condensation
Spray foam insulation is applied directly to the underside of your roof deck, sealing the attic from external heat and moisture. This transforms the attic into a semi-conditioned space with temperatures closer to your home’s interior. By reducing the temperature gap between the attic and living areas, spray foam minimizes the risk of condensation and mold growth.
A conditioned attic also shields your HVAC ductwork from extreme temperatures and humidity, enhancing the efficiency of your cooling system and preventing moisture buildup in the ducts.
3. Reduced Workload on Your AC System
By eliminating excessive attic heat, spray foam insulation allows your air conditioning to operate more efficiently. Less heat and humidity infiltrate your home, so the AC doesn’t have to run as often or as long to maintain comfortable temperatures. This leads to lower energy bills and extends the lifespan of your HVAC equipment. In Central Florida’s climate, proper insulation can save homeowners up to 20% on cooling costs.
4. Additional Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation
- Moisture Barrier: Resists moisture absorption, reducing the risk of condensation, mold, and mildew.
- Improved Indoor Air Quality: Seals out pollutants and allergens, contributing to a healthier living environment.
- Structural Strength: Adds rigidity to your home’s structure, providing extra protection against storms.
- Energy Efficiency: Superior insulating properties lower energy consumption and reduce your carbon footprint.
Conclusion
The choice of insulation profoundly impacts your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and the performance of your AC system. While fiberglass may appear cost-effective initially, its tendency to create superheated attics and promote condensation can lead to higher energy costs, discomfort, and health risks.
Spray foam insulation offers a superior solution by conditioning your attic space, preventing moisture issues, and reducing the workload on your AC system. At Truly Sealed Insulation, we’re committed to providing eco-friendly, efficient insulation solutions that enhance your home’s performance and your family’s well-being.
Make the smart choice for your Central Florida home. Choose spray foam insulation and enjoy a cooler, drier attic, lower energy bills, and a more comfortable, healthier living environment. Contact us today to transform your attic from a heat and moisture trap into a conditioned space that works for you—not against you.