Insulation is an important feature for any building structure as it keeps buildings from losing heat in winter months and from letting heat in during summer months. As with any building component, insulation has minimum requirements determined by the building codes for specific areas in Idaho and set by the government. Local jurisdictions can adopt more efficient energy codes if they choose to do so. Codes are viewed every three years in Idaho.

Insulation is graded by its R-value, or the capacity to resist heat flow, with a higher R-value meaning a higher insulating power. Climate has a lot to do with determining the minimum requirements for R-values. Climate zones across the United States will vary the R-value requirements because of temperature fluctuations. Most local cities in Idaho have minimum R-value requirements and they must be met if a roof is removed to the deck, then the minimum R-value requirement is enforced. R-value minimum requirements vary. Boise has an R-25 requirement, while Oregon requires R20, statewide. All LEED rated buildings must have a rating of R38.

R-values have undergone adjustments over the years. Most recently in 2012 they were changed. Prior to 2012 four inches of insulation was rated R30, but after amending the rating 5-1/2 inches is now considered R30. Of course, as long as the minimum is met the building is up to code. However, a building owner may choose to have a higher R-value to increase the energy efficiency of the building and help saving money on heating and cooling costs. Not all insulation is the same. R-value ratings can vary significantly between manufactures. And just because one type of insulation is thicker than another, doesn’t mean it has a higher R-value.

If heating and cooling cost are higher than you’d like them to be or if you’d like to make your building more energy efficient Upson Company can help with your re-roof project to bring your roof up to code and help save money in energy bills.