What are the R-Values and U-Values of insulation and how are they important?

It all comes down to the effectiveness of insulation material and its suitability as per the climate zone. Not all materials are suitable for all insulation projects and all climates. Insulation can be installed in many areas like the attic, in between walls, basements, and so on, but a few insulating materials are the most appropriate for the respective locations. Experienced insulation contractors in Los Angeles can assist you properly in choosing the most suitable material for the appropriate location. The choice of materials is also very much governed by the R-Value and the U-value of the materials.

R-value is used to measure the insulating material’s ability to resist heat flow. The R-value chart is usually provided by the manufacturer of the materials and is mandatory labeling on product packaging. It is only applicable to the materials and not the insulation systems.

While the U-value is the most common gradation of insulating materials, incorporating the thermal conductance of a structure alongside heat transfer due to the processes of convection and radiation. All buildings have maximum admissible thermal transmittance value and it must be within the authorized limit. The severest constraints of thermal conductivity are kept for the outer layers of buildings, mostly for attics, ceilings, basements, and external walls. Seek the assistance of one of the insulation company in Los Angeles to know more about the  U-value suitability. The U-value is generally used to rate doors and windows. The lower the U-value, the less the heat flow. Implying that, with lower heat flow, the materials will be more efficient and you get more energy savings as a lower amount of energy would be required to modify and maintain a constant ambient temperature.

On the other hand, the higher the R-value, the better the material’s resistance, and unlike the U-values, the R-values, solely depend on the thickness of the materials. And by the thumb rule, thicker insulation has a higher thermal resistance and lower thermal conductivity.

People have this vague idea about these two measures. They sometimes consider the two measures to be exact opposites to each other, but that is not the case. No need to be confused, just take help from professional insulation contractor in Los Angeles when selecting materials to make the most appropriate application of these measures and to make a profitable procurement.

Takeaway: the U-values denote the transfer of heat through conduction and radiation, while the R-value indicates the resistance to heat transfer.