Your need for insulation definitely varies depending on which climate you live in. However, the location of insulation in your home and the reasons for the minimum and maximum insulation ratings recommended by climate will vary. Here is a look at the three main climate types, hot, cold and mild, the unique problems that each may face, and recommended insulation levels for each.

Hot Climates

Hot climates don’t need the same level of insulation that mild and cold climates need, but some wall insulation and attic insulation is recommended (less to none for the floor). It is a good idea to allow for some breeze to be able to naturally cool homes in warm climates, especially when they are coastal with ocean breezes. Natural shade sources can also help to cut heating and cooling costs in these warm locales.

Mild Climates

Mild climates are found throughout the middle of the US, and though they may have warm summers, they don’t have extremely snowy winters. Snow, however, is not unheard of and because of this, medium levels of insulation are recommended for slab, attic, and walls. This is the most likely area to need insulation to both keep the cool in and out of the home depending on the season, so a tightly insulated home can help to protect your interior temperature at the level you want without extraordinary heating and cooling costs.

Cool Climates

These climates definitely require heating, and often have sub-zero temperatures that require high levels of insulation in the five main areas of your home, including the attic, the walls, the floors, the crawlspace and in the basement. For areas of the country that have extremely cold weather, high levels of insulation make a big difference.

Finding the Right Level for You

Within each climate, there are a few things to consider as far as how much and what kind of insulation to use. The best way to decide is to work with a professional who can help point out the specific needs of your region and home. For more information, contact USI online to find a branch near you and get a free quote. USI believes that excellence in every step of the process and ensures timely completion and quality of service, time after time.