HouseChalk
Batt insulation
Batt insulation is insulation that comes in pre-cut blankets or rolls, usually made of fiberglass or mineral wool, sized to fit between studs, joists, or rafters.
Why it matters
Batt insulation is one of the most common types in homes. How it is installed matters more than the R-value on the label. Gaps and compression reduce its effectiveness.
Where people get this wrong
Stuffing batts into a space does not add R-value. Compressing a batt reduces its performance. Batts should fit snugly without gaps or compression.
Real-world example
A wall cavity is filled with pink fiberglass batts. One installer pushes them tight and cuts carefully around outlets. Another stuffs them in loosely with gaps. Same product, very different performance.
Where this hits your build
This affects comfort, energy costs, and indoor air quality. It gets locked behind drywall, so decisions here need to be right before finishing starts.
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