Burning Through Heating Oil Too Quickly? What Type Of Insulation Is Best?

With the price of heating oil at a new low, you may be enjoying a brief reprieve from your ordinary winter utility rates. However, what goes down must go up again -- and if you've found that your supply of heating oil seems to be going down more quickly than in past years, it's possible your home's insulation has begun to near the end of its lifespan. Read on to learn more about some of the most efficient (and cost-effective) insulation options that can help you significantly extend the lifespan of each tank of heating oil. 

What are the most effective ways to insulate your home?

While sheets of itchy fiberglass insulation were once one of the only options for most homeowners, today's technology has helped create a variety of types of insulation -- all of them effective at preventing heat transfer and dampening drafty air. However, some types of insulation are more appropriate for (and effective in) certain spaces than others.

If you're dealing with a large area to be insulated (like a peaked attic), fluffy "blow-in" insulation may be your best bet. This insulation can be composed of fiberglass, recycled cotton, or other light substances designed to expand and fill the area in need of protection. To install blow-in insulation, you'll either need to hire a professional or rent the "blowing" machine from a tool and equipment rental facility. After loading the insulation into the machine, you'll be able to point it toward any of your walls and turn the switch. 

Those trying to insulate thin outer walls or oddly-shaped areas may instead find spray foam insulation to be ideal. This insulation is composed of oil (crude, vegetable, or animal) mixed with a binder. While spray foam insulation comes out of the nozzle as a liquid, it quickly turns to foam and then hardens into an impermeable insulating layer. This installation method is much easier than attempting to install fiberglass batting or blow-in insulation in a tiny space. 

What are the best insulating options for a tight budget? 

If you're concerned about the way your home seems to be leaching heat but don't have the cash for a complete insulation overhaul, there are still a few options that can help you cut down on air flow and heat transfer. 

Those interested in blow-in insulation but without the budget for machine rental could instead use old denim jeans or cotton clothing to create recycled blow-in insulation. By shredding these clothing items and spreading an even layer of shreds throughout the area to be insulated, you'll be able to sufficiently insulate even a large area at a low cost. (In fact, many eco-friendly homeowners specifically seek out recycled cotton insulation in lieu of traditional fiberglass insulation.) 

Those who need to insulate a smaller space can instead roll up these jeans or cotton shirts into batting. This thick cotton or denim can provide a barrier that is very difficult for cold (or hot) air to penetrate. 

To learn more, contact a company like Early Times Home Solutions.