Types of Insulation

In the Greater Portland area, we experience a full range of temperatures throughout the year and the harsh climate can wreak havoc on our homes. Insulation can provide comfort, efficiency, and protection from the elements. But in order to maximize your benefits, you need to choose an insulation that meets your home’s specific needs.

Evergreen Home Performance offers a wide variety of insulation types, and our team of qualified technicians take a step-by-step approach to determining what option is the best for your home.

Different Types of Insulation 

The real-world performance of insulation depends on the type you use, the level of air sealing, and the quality of the installation. At Evergreen Home Performance, we have nearly 20 years of experience with professional insulation installation and will help determine which type is best for your home.

We don’t use fiberglass insulation because it doesn’t perform as well—especially in cold temperatures, when insulation should be at its best. It’s also a favorite nesting site for critters. Here are the types of insulation we install throughout Portland and Coastal Maine:

Cellulose Insulation

Environmentally friendly cellulose insulation is made from clean recycled newspaper that's treated with boric acid to make it fire, mold, and pest resistant. We use Beno-Therm Thermal and Acoustical Cellulose Insulation, which comes either dense-packed for confined spaces or loose-fill for larger spaces like attics. Benefits of cellulose insulation include:

• Cost-effective
• High performance
• Sound dampening
• Non-toxic
• Fire, mold, and pest resistant

Mineral Wool Insulation

Mineral wool is made from spun slag wool (mineral byproducts) that is dense-packed with flexible fibers, making it a durable and resilient choice for insulation. Though it looks similar to fiberglass insulation, mineral wool has a superior R-value, is more environmentally friendly, and offers protection against moisture, pests, and fire. Sometimes also called rock wool insulation, mineral wool insulation is the best choice around chimneys, masonry walls, and other areas that will be exposed to intense heat or moisture. Other benefits include:

• Retains insulative qualities, even when wet
• Superior sound dampening 
• Excellent fire barrier
• Strong & durable

Spray Foam Insulation

Closed cell spray foam is sprayed onto a surface and conforms to its surroundings and hardens as it cures. Spray foam insulation creates an airtight barrier that also protects against moisture. However, because it is a chemical product, we only install it when it’s the best and necessary choice, like for basement walls, rim joists, and other areas with high levels of air infiltration. We’ll also advise that you, your family, and your pets be out of the home during the installation and curing process. Benefits of spray foam insulation include:

• Air & vapor barrier
• Long-lasting
• High R-value
• Rigid structure

Foil-Faced Rigid Foam Insulation

This non-structural rigid insulation board has a smooth, white aluminum foil facing. The foam core offers a high insulative value, and the white facing both enhances fire resistance and provides a neat, clean appearance. It is our preferred choice in basements with smooth foundation walls and offers several benefits, including:

• Air & moisture protection
• Long-lasting
• High R-value

Professional Insulation Services in Greater Portland

Regardless of the type of insulation you choose for your home, working with a professional insulation contractor like Evergreen Home Performance will ensure it reaches its full potential. We’re Mainers that are committed to the home performance industry and take pride in making homes healthier, more comfortable, and more affordable to heat and cool. 

Get started with insulation upgrades from Evergreen Home Performance today. Call 207-594-2244 or contact us online.