Attic Solutions
R-Value Facts
R-value measures a material's resistance to heat flow — the higher the R-value, the more effective the insulation.
What R-Value Means
Insulation is measured by its thermal resistance, or R-value. "R" stands for the insulation's resistance to heat flow. House insulation should be selected based on its R-value, not its thickness or weight.
R-Value Facts to Know
- One type of insulation may be thicker or thinner than another, but if the R-value is the same, they should insulate equally.
- R-value performance testing is done in a 70°F environment with no air movement.
- Insulation dramatically outperforms dense mass materials like concrete or brick for thermal resistance per inch — which is why even a modest, properly installed layer of insulation makes a measurable difference.
- The effective R-value of house insulation is substantially reduced by any air leaks or moisture intrusion.
- The recommended R-value for house insulation varies based on climate and region.
The U.S. Department of Energy has established minimum recommended insulation R-values for six distinct insulation zones across the country. The Triangle area, including Cary, NC, falls within Zone 4.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cary falls within the U.S. Department of Energy's Zone 4, which has its own set of recommended minimum R-values. Because the right target also depends on your home's construction and existing insulation, an inspection is the best way to get a specific recommendation.
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“Rob and his crew are super. I had a very big project to renovate a 130-year old farmhouse. They worked diligently to put in new piers, new girders, and new joists. Then they also help to fix some frames and add subfloor. This allowed me to move on. Really enjoyed working with Rob.”
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Mar 2025
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Feb 2025
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Nov 2024
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