11/14/04: Recycled polyisocyanurate insulation panels from Conigliaro Recycling in
Framingham, MA. Only 50 cents per 3x4 foot panel with true R12 insulating value. 2 layers used
for R25 total. (R1 for air gap between layers.) Highest R-value of any
conventional insulation at R6 per inch. (Sold as R7, but value declines with age
with the 'tar paper' moisture barrier used here. R-value of polyiso with foil sides
remains R7.)
More work to install but about
twice as effective as fibberglass
in walls, especially the knee walls in this cape style house. More effective due to air sealing and
no losses from compression, convection and poor fit. The best insulation available should be used
in walls since they will probably be enclosed for 50 years or more unlike the attic where more
can be added as fuel prices rise.
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