A Homeowner’s Guide to 6 Types of Insulation: Choosing What’s Best for Your Space

As a realtor, I’ve walked through a lot of homes—from cozy bungalows to luxury builds—and one thing I’ve learned? What’s behind the walls matters just as much as what’s in the listing photos.

Let’s talk insulation.
Yes, it’s not glamorous. It won’t make your Pinterest board.
But it saves money, improves comfort, and boosts a home's value. 💸
So, here's your quick (and fun!) guide to six types of insulation every homeowner should know.

1. Fiberglass – The Classic

📦 Think: Pink fluffy stuff in your attic
It’s the OG of insulation. Lightweight, affordable, and comes in batts or loose-fill. Great for standard walls and attic spaces.

💡 Realtor tip: If you’re buying an older home, check that the fiberglass hasn’t been squished or soaked. Flat = less effective.

2. Cellulose – The Eco Hero ♻️

📚 Made from recycled paper (seriously!)
Cellulose is dense and does a great job sealing up those tiny air leaks. It’s blown into walls and attics, making it perfect for retrofits.

🌱 Why buyers love it: Sustainable, safe, and good at reducing drafts.

3. Spray Foam – The Overachiever

🫧 Expands like magic
This stuff fills every nook and cranny. It’s pricier, but the high R-value means your home stays warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

✨ Perfect for: Odd-shaped spaces, cathedral ceilings, and sealing up those hard-to-reach corners.

4. Rigid Foam Boards – The Strong Silent Type

🧱 Solid panels = solid performance
Great for foundations, exterior walls, and under roofs. These boards are moisture-resistant and super insulating without taking up much space.

🔧 Contractors love them for new builds and renovations alike.

5. Mineral Wool – The Cool Kid

🔥 Made from rock or industrial slag (yes, really)
It’s fire-resistant, great for soundproofing, and doesn’t absorb water. Plus, it handles high temps like a champ.

🎧 Pro move: Use it between floors or shared walls to keep things quiet.

6. Radiant Barrier – The Sun Blocker ☀️

⚡ Not really “insulation,” but still super helpful
It’s a shiny, foil-like material that reflects heat away. Ideal for attics in hot climates.

🌡️ Live somewhere toasty? This can help cut down on cooling costs big time.

So… What Should You Choose?

🏡 It depends!
When helping clients buy or sell, I always look at three things:

• Climate: Hot, cold, or both?

• Budget: Basic upgrade or full-home reno?

• Location: Attic? Basement? Exterior walls?

📞 Thinking of selling? Upgrading insulation can be a selling point!
👀 House hunting? Let’s make sure your dream home isn’t drafty.

Want the inside scoop on energy-efficient upgrades that actually add value?

Let’s chat! I’m here for more than just the paperwork—I'm your guide to smart, savvy homeownership.