Attic Insulation Types: Which is Best for Memphis Homes?
Choosing the right attic insulation can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. Each insulation type has its own strengths and challenges. To help you make an informed decision, we’re outlining the most common attic insulation options and why our new blow‑in fiberglass solution from Restoration Roofing may be the perfect fit for homes in Memphis and surrounding suburbs.
1. Batt (Rolled) Insulation
Description:
Arch-shaped or flat rolls of fiberglass or mineral wool designed to fit snugly between attic joists.
Pros:
Affordable and widely available
Easy to install for professionals
Ideal for new construction or accessible, open spaces
Cons:
Gaps and compression reduce R‑Value effectiveness
Labor-intensive around obstructions (pipes, vents, wiring)
Not ideal for DIY if aiming for tight coverage
2. Blow‑In (Loose‑Fill) Insulation
Description:
Material—typically fiberglass or cellulose—blown into place using specialized equipment for even, dense coverage across attic surfaces.
Pros:
Fills gaps and conforms to irregular spaces
Easy to add on top of existing insulation layers
High R‑Value potential when installed to recommended depth
Cons:
Requires professional installation equipment
Needs consistent density to maintain performance
Restoration Roofing’s Offering:
We’re thrilled to now provide blow‑in fiberglass insulation throughout Memphis, Collierville, Germantown, and nearby areas. Fiberglass is durable, mold-resistant, and performs exceptionally well in humid climates.
3. Spray Foam Insulation
Description:
Applied as a liquid that expands into solid foam, sealing all air leaks and gaps while providing insulation.
Pros:
Highest air-sealing performance
Durable and long-lasting
Excellent moisture barrier
Cons:
Significantly more expensive
Requires professional installation with safety precautions
Not easily upgraded or altered
4. Rigid Foam Board Insulation
Description:
Stiff panels (e.g., polystyrene, polyiso) installed over attic floors or underside of roof decks for enhanced R‑Value.
Pros:
High R‑Value per inch
Continuous coverage with minimal seams
Adds structure and thermal barrier
Cons:
More costly than loose‑fill or batts
Complex-fitting around attic geometry and fixtures
Best paired with other insulation for full effectiveness
R‑Value 101: Why It Matters in Memphis
R‑Value measures insulation’s ability to prevent heat transfer—the higher the rating, the better it works. In Memphis’s climate—long, hot summers and mild winters—the recommended attic insulation level is R‑30. This level helps maintain indoor comfort and control energy costs.
Here’s how common materials stack up:
| Insulation Type | R‑Value per Inch | Approx. Thickness to Reach R‑30 |
|---|---|---|
| Fiberglass Batts | R‑3.0 – R‑3.5 | ~9 to 10 inches |
| Blow‑In Fiberglass | R‑2.5 – R‑2.8 | ~11 to 12 inches |
| Spray Foam | R‑6 to R‑7 | ~4 to 5 inches |
| Foam Board | R‑5 to R‑6 | ~5 to 6 inches |
Why Restoration Roofing Recommends Blow‑In Fiberglass for Memphis Homes
Ideal R‑Value Coverage:
Easily achieves R‑30 with applied thickness and ensures all nooks are covered for consistent insulation.Humidity Resistance:
Fiberglass doesn’t absorb water, helping to prevent mold—a big plus in our humid climate.Cost-Effective & Efficient:
Less expensive than spray foam and more effective than compressed batts, offering great value for performance.Seals Well:
The blowing process ensures there are no gaps or voids—common weaknesses in traditional batts.Future-Proof Solution:
Because it can be topped up or combined with upgrades later, you can maintain ideal R‑Value over time.
When to Consider Other Options
Spray foam is best when airtight sealing is a top priority, such as for moisture control or in conditioned attics.
Foam board works well for attic lid applications or when space is limited but high R‑Value is needed.
Existing batt insulation may suffice if pristine, dense, and already meeting R‑30—but many older installations fall short from settling or gaps.
How Our Installation Process Works
Free Attic Assessment: We check current insulation levels, air leaks, and ventilation.
Recommendation & Estimate: You’ll get a tailored proposal to reach at least R‑30.
Clean Installation: Using professional blowers, we install loose-fill fiberglass accurately and cleanly.
Air Sealing: We seal around entrances, pipes, and penetrations to maximize insulation performance.
Final Inspection: We ensure coverage depth is uniform and verify your home’s energy efficiency benefits.
Work With Restoration Roofing
Choosing the right attic insulation matters. While batt, spray foam, and foam board all have their place, blow‑in fiberglass—now offered by Restoration Roofing—is an excellent choice for Memphis-area homes seeking energy savings and comfort. Its ability to achieve R‑30 coverage efficiently, handle humidity, seal tricky spots, and deliver lasting performance makes it a smart upgrade.
Ready to boost your home’s comfort and savings?
Contact Restoration Roofing today for your free attic insulation assessment and let us elevate your home’s efficiency through expert fiberglass blow‑in installation.
Contact us today to schedule your inspection and get a no-pressure quote from Collierville’s trusted roofing experts.
Choose Restoration Roofing and get the protection your home deserves. Give us a call at 901-854-3402 or fill out our Contact Us form and we will reach out to you with our next available inspection. Make sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more tips on finding the best roofing contractor for you.
