Insulation R-Value Requirements for TX

What is R-Value?

The “R” in R-value stands for resistance. This is the resistance to the movement in temperature through walls, ceiling and floors in your home or commercial building. One criterion you look for when your deciding between different types of insulation foam is the R-Value of the product. So the higher the R-Value is the better the insulation.

Another major performance issue with insulation and energy savings is its air sealing capability. The US Department of Energy estimates that up to 40% or more of your home's energy loss is due to air leakage. Foam insulation stops air leakage.

High R-Value with Foam Insulation in Texas

Sprayed polyurethane foam has an aged R-value of approximately 6.0 per 1 inch thickness (depending on the particular formulation and application, higher values have been achieved), enabling it to provide more thermal resistance with less material than any other type of commercial insulation material. SPF systems are frequently used to insulate and protect a wide variety of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

Monthly energy and utility savings of 30% or greater can be achieved when compared to the alternative roofing and insulation systems. The cost of an SPF roof or insulation system can often be recovered in less than 5 years, simply through energy savings alone.

Does Your Texas Home Have Enough R-Value ?

Many homes in the United States are not well insulated, spending a lot of money on energy costs in the process. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, only 20% of the houses built before 1980 are considered well insulated and many homes have no insulation at all because building codes did not even require insulation before the mid-1970’s.

All new construction in the USA and Canada today, must meet certain minimum R-values depending on what climate area of the country you live in. Examine the map below to see which area Texas falls under in the R-Value climate map.

Below are a couple R-Value Insulation Calculators to help you answer:
"How much R-Value does my home need?"

R-Value Climate Zone Chart for Wall, Attics, and Floors

r-value insulation map based on climate in Texas

r-value insulation chart based on climate in Texas