Insulation and ventilation Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Insulation and ventilation - Research Paper Example Their resistances range from 2.13 to 3.31 and mostly require installation by professionals (Department of Energy, 2008). The other type of insulation is rigid insulation that is made from plastic foams or fibrous materials. They provide a greater resistance where space is limited. Professionals apply foam insulation produced in two forms open-cell and closed-cell with the help of special equipment. Blue Flame states that ventilators are those openings in the attic that allow moisture to escape. Ventilation ensures that attic heat does not penetrate into living rooms during the summer. Natural ventilation installation should be for every 300 square feet of an attic, one square foot of ventilation is required (Blue Flame). Some of the natural ventilation types include gable vents, ridge vents, soffit vents, and roof line vents. Power ventilation utilizes attic ventilators that may hinder efficient fireplace and furnace ventilation (Blue Flame). Properly ventilated and insulated attics offer several benefits. Proper insulation and ventilation prevent ice dams by keeping the roof cooler during winter. An efficient ventilation and insulation reduce cooling costs during warm seasons. Proper insulation extends shingle life span that also prevents rot in the roof’s framing by reducing moisture build up. Improper ventilation and insulation consequences include increased costs in cooling and heating the house during hot and cold weather. Improper installation consumes energy and produces unreliable outcomes inhibiting energy efficiency. Both open cell and closed cell foam insulation are suitable for insulating. These foam installations all come in different colors and often look alike. Easley states that in open cell foam insulation, bubbles are linked and connected by air pockets with Resistance values of around 3.5 per inch. The closed cell foam spray uses tiny bubbles filled with gasses less conductive than air, forming a