The typical home is filled with a number of different types of insulation, all of which help to make the home energy efficient and reduce heat loss. However, you may not realize the amount or type of home insulation you have, or should have, in your house.

It’s a great idea to have your home insulation inspected once every year to make sure that your home is as energy efficient as possible. However, before the inspection takes place, you should understand the types of insulation materials you have in your home. Keep the following in mind as you, or your contractor, inspect your home insulation this year.

Roof Insulation Materials

It’s important to adequately insulate roofs, ceilings and attics. Roofs have a large amount of surface area exposed to the outside air, and thus can create the most problems in terms of heat loss. Proper attic or roof insulation can decrease energy bills year round.

Roof insulation can consist of the following insulation materials:

• Blown-in fiberglass, cellulose or rock wool
• Foam
• Rolled-in fiberglass.

Rolled-in fiberglass is one of the better choices of insulation materials for a peaked roof. However, blown-in insulation materials and foam are both good options for a finished attic.

Wall Home Insulation

Wall insulation functions much the same way as roof insulation. It can be made of foam, blown-in or rolled-in fiberglass. In pre-built houses, blown-in insulation materials or liquid foam may be the only options. However, for new homes, rolled-in fiberglass is a great home insulation material for walls.

Water Heater Insulation Materials

One of the largest energy hogs in your home is your water heater. The water heater is maintained at a certain temperature so that when you turn the hot water faucet on in the home, the water is already warm. The problem with this system is that your heater has to constantly warm the water as it cools down.

You can reduce your energy use with a water heater insulation blanket. This home insulation material wraps around the water heater tank and helps to maintain its temperature. The insulation materials that make up the blanket can either be foam or fiberglass.

Plumbing and Home Insulation

Along with your water heater, you can also insulate the plumbing throughout your house. As water passes through the pipes of your home, it’s exposed to the air surrounding the pipe. This can rob the heated water of warmth before it arrives at the faucet.

You can combat this heat loss by installing certain types of insulation for water pipes. These insulation materials come in strips and slide over water pipes, insulating the pipe from the air and keeping the water warmer.

Other Areas Requiring Insulation Materials

Other areas that may require different types of home insulation include:

• Basements
• Ductwork
• Exterior Walls
• Foundations
• Windows.

By properly installing various types of insulation throughout your home, you’ll be able to save both energy and money.