Insulation Material Science
Comprehensive technical specifications for attic insulation materials and performance metrics.
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Fiberglass Batts
- R-Value: 2.9-4.3 per inch
- Density: 0.5-1.0 lb/ft³
- Fire Rating: Class A (ASTM E84)
- Sound Absorption: NRC 0.95-1.15
- Vapor Permeance: 50+ perms
- Cost Range: $0.64-1.19/ft²
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Blown Cellulose
- R-Value: 3.2-3.8 per inch
- Density: 2.2-3.0 lb/ft³
- Settling: 15-20% long-term
- Recycled Content: 82-85%
- Fire Retardants: Boric acid/ammonium
- Cost Range: $0.98-1.58/ft²
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Spray Foam (Open Cell)
- R-Value: 3.5-3.7 per inch
- Density: 0.4-0.5 lb/ft³
- Air Barrier: Yes at 3+ inches
- Expansion Ratio: 100:1
- VOC Content: <50 g/L
- Cost Range: $1.25-2.25/ft²
Installation Parameters
Critical specifications and requirements for proper installation:
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Coverage Requirements
- Depth Markers: Every 300 ft²
- Batt Compression: <1% allowed
- Vapor Barrier: 0.1 perm rating
- Ventilation Baffles: 1" min clearance
- Junction Box Clearance: 3"
- Light Fixture Dams: 24" diameter
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Labor Considerations
- Installation Rate: 600-800 ft²/day
- Crew Size: 2-3 technicians
- Equipment Setup: 45-60 minutes
- Material Prep: 30-45 minutes
- Quality Checks: 15% of total time
- Cleanup: 60-90 minutes
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Safety Protocols
- PPE Requirements: Full suite
- Ventilation: 6-8 ACH minimum
- Temperature Range: 40-100°F
- Humidity: <70% RH
- Fire Safety: Class 1 rated
- Fall Protection: Required >6ft
Cost Analysis Factors
Detailed breakdown of cost components and considerations:
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Material Cost Factors
- Bulk Density Impact: ±15%
- Coverage Factor: 1.15 typical
- Waste Allowance: 8-12%
- Regional Variance: ±25%
- Volume Discounts: 10-15%
- Seasonal Pricing: ±20%
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Labor Cost Components
- Base Rate: $45-75/hour
- Overhead: 35-45%
- Insurance: 12-18%
- Equipment: $150-300/day
- Travel Time: $0.58/mile
- Setup/Cleanup: 15% of labor
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Long-term Economics
- Energy Savings: 15-25%/year
- ROI Period: 3-7 years
- Lifespan: 20-30 years
- Maintenance Cost: $0.10/ft²/yr
- Property Value: +2-5%
- Tax Credits: Up to 30%