Insulation Upgrades: Improving Structural Integrity In Your Family Home

(HIT) - One of the first questions homebuyers ask when they've decided on a home is what options do I have to choose from? Another common question is: What can I upgrade in my home to make it more comfortable and livable? Typically, builders point to such items as hardwood floors, upgraded carpet, fancy tiling, raised ceilings, upgraded appliances and cabinetry, among other items.

"Most of these things relate to beautification or an enhancement in technology," says Eric Nilsson, director of marketing with CertainTeed's Insulation Group. "They are things you can see and they don't do anything to improve the structural integrity of the home."

Nilsson suggests discussing structural options or upgrades with your builder as well. Ask about the foundation, the framing materials to be used and what will make the interior and exterior walls. For instance, instead of fiber glass batts, ask about the Blow-In Blanket® System as an insulation upgrade. BIBS® is pneumatically installed behind a fabric into a wall cavity and results in greater energy efficiency, lower annual energy bills and improved sound control and privacy.

Products such as OPTIMA®, fill a wall cavity at a higher R-value than other materials as they completely cover every nook and cranny, even around wiring, pipes and plumbing fixtures. In addition, this type of insulation does not settle over the life of a home and OPTIMA is installed dry to reduce moisture concerns.

For more information on OPTIMA, write to the CertainTeed Home Institute, P.O. Box 860, Valley Forge, PA 19482 or call 1-800-782-8777. Also, visit us on the Internet at www.certainteed.com.