Keep Out The Cold With The Proper Insulation
Insulation is key to any home to keep it at a comfortable temperature. Especially in the winter, without the proper isolation, you are definitely looking to spending long nights in the cold or spending a tremendous amount of money in keeping your home warm. With tiny homes there are many choices when it comes to choosing your insulation to install. These choices include denim, foam board, fiberglass, and spray foam.
Denim Insulation
Denim insulation is a batted form of insulation made from recycled textiles which doesn’t include any toxic irritants as other insulation options might. In addition. Most tiny home owners are interested in living “green” as much as possible, denim insulation is an affordable free option.
What We Like
- Uses a renewable energy source in production.
- Non-toxic.
- Well suited as a DIY project.
What We Don’t
- Twice the weight of fiberglass batts.
- Hard to cut if it doesn’t fit perfectly in the cavity.
- Takes a long time to dry out if it gets wet.
Foam Board
Foam Board Insulation comes in a variety of lengths, thicknesses, and facings. It is very easy to properly fit, when insulating your tiny home. These rigid panels are made from either polystyrene, polyisocyanurate, or polyurethane.
What We Like
- Expanded polystyrene board is the only foam board that doesn’t use HCFCs in its production.
- Rigid foam board insulation is made to be water resistant.
- Foam board insulation can be installed as a DIY project in open cavities, so before you put the drywall up.
What We Don’t
- The joints between the boards must be taped or caulked to prevent airflow.
- Polyisocyanurate foam boards can decrease in insulating abilities over time.
- The foam boards must be custom cut to fit the cavity where they are installed.
Fiberglass Insulation
Fiberglass insulation comes in either batts or blankets. This insulation is comprised of tiny glass fibers and does a great job at limiting air flow, thus keeping heating costs down.
What We Like
- Can be done as a DIY project.
- Can be inexpensive compared to the other materials.
- Suited for standard stud and joist placement that is free from obstructions.
What We Don’t
- Still allows for air movement, which can lead to uncomfortable rooms and high energy bills.
- Can trap allergens and dust.
- If it gets wet, it loses insulating capabilities and will lead to mold growth.
Spray Foam
With its slow expansion rate, closed cell spray foam is a great insulation choice for a tiny home. This spray plastic foam creates continuous insulation with an air tight seal.
What We Like
- Creates an air seal.
- Is energy efficient as it will keep your heating and cooling appliances from running constantly.
- Doesn’t retain water.
- Doesn’t serve as a catalyst if there is a fire.
What We Don’t
- Is more expensive when compared to other insulation options.
- Some spray foam brands have an odor following installation that could last hours or in some cases days.
- Not recommended as a DIY project.
So What to Choose?
Although we have presented four different insulating options for your tiny home, all four may not be an option for your tiny home. When trying to decide, look at your budget, expectations, and needs. In addition, be sure to check with a building inspector to find out what options fit within the building code in your area. And as always, choose the right fit for your needs.
Until next time, live tiny y’all!