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Home Comfort Insights from Connecticut's Insulation Experts

Professional insights, money-saving tips, and real solutions for Connecticut homeowners.

Nealon Insulation R Value Calculator
General Information

How Much R-Value Do I Need? Try Our R-Value Calculator

Find out exactly how much insulation your home needs—without the guesswork. Let’s get one thing straight: when it comes to keeping your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, R-value matters. A lot. But most homeowners (and even a few contractors) don’t really know what R-value they need, where, or why.

How Much R-Value Do I Need? Try Our R-Value Calculator
Mike D
May 26, 2025
9
 mins read

Find out exactly how much insulation your home needs—without the guesswork.

Let’s get one thing straight: when it comes to keeping your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, R-value matters. A lot. But most homeowners (and even a few contractors) don’t really know what R-value they need, where, or why.

That’s why we built a free, easy-to-use R-Value Calculator—to give you clear, code-backed recommendations based on where you live and what part of your home you’re insulating.

But before you jump in and start punching in numbers, let’s cover the basics so you actually know what you’re looking at. Here's what we'll cover in this article:

What Is R-Value, Anyway?

R-value is how we measure insulation’s resistance to heat flow. Think of it like SPF for your house—higher R-value = more protection. The better the R-value, the slower your heated (or cooled) air escapes through your walls, ceilings, and floors.

So when someone says “You’ve got R-13 in your walls,” they’re talking about how well that insulation holds the line between inside and outside temperatures.

Different insulation types have different R-values per inch:

  • Fiberglass batts: ~R-3.2 per inch
  • Cellulose: ~R-3.5–3.8 per inch
  • Spray foam (closed-cell): ~R-6.5 per inch

Why Does R-Value Matter?

Simple: it’s the difference between a home that stays comfy for cheap... and one that bleeds money every time the heat kicks on. Insufficient R-value leads to:

  • Drafty rooms
  • Sky-high utility bills
  • HVAC systems working overtime
  • Unhappy homeowners (maybe you?)

The Department of Energy and local building codes require specific R-values depending on where you live. But unless you’ve memorized the DOE’s climate zone map (we have, but we’re weird like that), figuring it out on your own is a pain.

A Quick Note on Climate Zones

The U.S. is divided into climate zones (Connecticut is mostly Zone 5), and those zones determine how much insulation your home needs.

United States climate zone map segments the country into dry, humid, hot and cold zones.

For example:

  • Zone 3 (warmer southern states) might only need R-30 in the attic.
  • Zone 5 (Connecticut) usually calls for R-49 to R-60 in the attic.
  • Zone 7 (northern tier)? You’re looking at R-60+ and tight air sealing.

You also need different R-values depending on whether you're insulating an attic, basement or wall. Garage's don't have unique R-Values. That's where things get tricky.

Enter: the R-value calculator.

R-Value Calculator

We built this tool to take the confusion out of calculating R-value. Just plug in:

  • Your state and county
  • The part of your home you want to insulate

...and boom—you’ll get the recommended minimum and maximum R-values based on your local code and climate.

✅ No digging through PDFs
✅ No guessing
✅ No wrong answers

Whether you’re upgrading attic insulation, finishing a basement, or insulating a new addition, this calculator gives you a clear starting point. From there, we can help you figure out the right material and get the job done.

Try Our R-Value Calculator

Use this R-value calculator to find out what your home really needs—and let’s make sure you’re not under-insulated, overpaying, or leaving comfort on the table.

R-Value Calculator

👉 Ready to increase your homes R value? Contact Nealon Insulation to get the job done right.

Cellulose Dry Pac Insulation
Contractors

The Cellulose Insulation Dry Pac System: A Guide for Contractors

For contractors looking for an efficient, high-performance insulation solution for new home construction and additions, the cellulose insulation dry pac system is an excellent choice. This method provides superior thermal performance, air sealing, and soundproofing while being cost-effective and eco-friendly.

The Cellulose Insulation Dry Pac System: A Guide for Contractors
Mike D
Feb 28, 2025
2
 mins read

If you’re a builder or contractor trying to hit high-performance targets without burning up the budget, it’s time to get familiar with the cellulose dry pac system.

This method isn’t new, but it’s been quietly outperforming batt insulation for decades. And if you’re building tight, energy-efficient homes—or you’re tired of callbacks from homeowners complaining about drafts and noise—you’ll want this in your playbook.

So What Is the Dry Pac System?

Short version: we staple up 6-mil poly, dense-pack cellulose behind it, and tape it off clean.
Long version: It’s a smarter way to insulate framed walls, locking in air sealing, soundproofing, and thermal performance all in one go.

Here’s how the install looks on site:

Step-by-Step for Contractors:

  1. Hang the Poly
    Staple and stitch 6-mil poly over the stud bays after framing. That poly’s your containment.
  2. Insert the Blowing Hose
    Cut a small slit in the poly. Feed the hose deep into the cavity. We’re not fluffing—this is dense-pack.
  3. Dense-Pack Cellulose
    Use an insulation blower to pack each cavity solid. No voids. No settling later. Just clean, consistent fill.
  4. Tape It Shut
    Once the cavity’s full, tape the slit. The poly stays intact and does its job as an air barrier.

Why This Beats Batts (Every. Single. Time.)

Higher R-Value Per Inch
Dense-pack cellulose gives you better thermal performance than fiberglass batts, hands down.

Built-in Air Sealing
Done right, this system slows air movement like a champ—no need for extra air-sealing steps inside the wall.

Soundproofing, Too
Your clients won’t hear what’s happening in the next room or outside. Big win for quality of life.

No Settling, No Gaps
Because it’s packed to the right density (3.5–4.0 lbs/cu ft), it won’t sag or settle over time.

Eco-Friendly & Code-Compliant
Made from recycled paper and treated with borate—safe, sustainable, and passes every code requirement you’ll run into.

Mold, Pest & Fire Resistant
The borate treatment keeps critters and mold out, and adds a layer of fire protection your inspectors will like.

When to Use the Dry Pac System

If you’re working on:

✔️ New builds that need airtight performance
✔️ Additions that need to meet modern code
✔️ Passive house or energy-efficient designs

…this is your system.

Why Nealon?

We’ve been insulating shoreline homes and working with builders like you for 48 years. Our team knows the dry pac system inside and out—and we get in, get it done, and get out of your way so you can keep your build on schedule.

👉 Ready to line up insulation that actually performs? Contact Nealon Insulation for a walkthrough or quote.

P.s. Calculate how much R-Value your home needs

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Attic Without Enough Insulation
General Information

Why Is My Insulation Not Working? Common Problems & Solutions

If your home feels too cold in the winter or too hot in the summer—despite having insulation—it’s natural to wonder: Why isn’t my insulation working? Insulation is meant to keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient, but several factors can reduce its effectiveness. In this blog, we’ll explore the most common reasons insulation stops working and how to fix them.

Mike D
Mike D
Mar 31, 2025
6
 mins read

You crank the heat and still need three blankets. You blast the AC and your second floor still feels like the inside of a bread oven. Meanwhile, your energy bill looks like a car payment.

So you’re asking: "What the heck is going on? I have insulation. Why isn't it working?"

Good question. Insulation should keep your home comfortable year-round. But just having it doesn’t mean it’s doing its job. Like anything else in a house, it can be installed wrong, wear out, or just not be the right fit for where you live.

Let’s break down the most common reasons insulation underperforms—and how to fix them before winter (or summer) bites back.

1. Not Enough Insulation (a.k.a. Your R-Value’s on Life Support)

The problem: You might have insulation, but not enough of it. It’s like wearing a windbreaker in January—technically clothing, but not keeping you warm.

Why it matters: Insulation works by resisting heat transfer. Not enough R-value = heat leaks out in winter, seeps in during summer.

The fix:
Here’s what Connecticut homes should have:

  • Attic: R-49 to R-60
  • Walls: R-13 to R-21
  • Floors: R-25 to R-30
  • Basements/Crawl Spaces: R-10 to R-19

If you’re way below those numbers, it’s time to bulk up. We recommend blown-in cellulose insulation—it packs tighter, performs better, and actually stays where it’s supposed to.

2. Your Insulation’s Old and Saggy

The problem: Insulation doesn’t last forever. Over time, it compresses, shifts, settles—or just plain gives up.

Why it matters:

  • Fiberglass batts can slump or fall out of place.
  • Older blown-in fiberglass settles like sand in an hourglass.
  • Even old cellulose can sag if it was installed before modern treatments.

The fix:
Have your attic checked. If your insulation looks like a pancake instead of a fluffy cake, it’s not doing much. We typically top off or replace with modern cellulose—it stays in place better and keeps your R-value high.

3. You’ve Got Air Leaks Everywhere

The problem: Even the best insulation can’t stop air that’s sneaking around it. Drafts around windows, doors, can lights, attic hatches—these are the usual suspects.

Why it matters:

  • In winter: warm air escapes, cold air creeps in.
  • In summer: your cooled air leaks out like a deflating balloon.

The fix:

  • Weatherstrip doors and windows
  • Seal attic penetrations before insulating
  • Use spray foam or rigid foam to block bigger gaps (pipes, vents, etc.)
  • Pro tip: Never insulate before you air seal. That’s just putting a blanket over a broken window.

4. Moisture Is Wrecking Your Insulation

The problem: If your attic or basement has poor ventilation, leaks, or condensation, you could have wet insulation.

Why it matters:

  • Wet fiberglass is basically useless.
  • Spray foam can trap moisture—mold loves that.
  • Moisture flattens insulation and kills your R-value.

The fix:

  • Choose cellulose—it handles moisture better than fiberglass.
  • Improve attic or crawl space ventilation.
  • Fix any roof leaks, flashing gaps, or foundation cracks ASAP.

5. It Was Installed Like a Weekend DIY Project (a bad one)

The problem: We see this all the time—gaps, compressions, missed spots. Doesn’t matter how good the material is if it’s not installed right.

Why it matters:

  • Gaps = heat loss
  • Compressed batts = reduced R-value
  • No air sealing = insulation gets bypassed completely

The fix:

  • Hire pros (like us). Seriously. It matters.
  • We blow in dense-pack cellulose that fills every nook, cranny, and gap.
  • We don’t just dump insulation and leave—we air seal first, every time.

6. Rodents Turned Your Attic into an Airbnb

The problem: Mice, squirrels, and raccoons love insulation. It’s warm, it’s soft, and they don’t care if it’s supposed to keep your energy bills low.

Why it matters:

  • They tear up your insulation
  • Their waste contaminates it
  • They create airflow gaps and invite mold

The fix:

  • Seal up entry points (soffits, vents, roof lines)
  • Use borate-treated cellulose, which pests hate
  • Remove and replace any contaminated insulation

7. You Picked the Wrong Type of Insulation

The problem: Not all insulation is built for New England. What works in Arizona doesn’t always work here.

Why it matters:

  • Fiberglass batts leak air and settle
  • Spray foam can trap moisture and costs a fortune to fix if things go south
  • Rigid foam works in basements, but not great in attics

The fix:
Go with blown-in cellulose for most applications. It checks all the boxes:

  • High R-value
  • Pest-resistant
  • Moisture-tolerant
  • Fills every gap
  • Made for our climate

How We Can Help (Without the Sales Fluff)

At Nealon Insulation, we’ve been fixing insulation problems since bell bottoms were a thing (1977, to be exact). Whether your attic needs a full rehab or just a tune-up, we know what works in Connecticut homes.

✅ Free insulation inspections
✅ Specialists in blown-in cellulose
EnergizeCT rebates to help you save
✅ No pressure—just straight answers

Bottom line: If your insulation isn’t working, there’s always a reason. Let’s find it—and fix it right.

📞 Give us a call or book a free inspection. We’ll get your home feeling like home again.

Building Code
Building Science

Understanding Energy Code Compliance: Performance Path vs. Prescriptive Path

When building a new home in Connecticut, meeting energy code requirements is essential for efficiency and compliance. The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) provides two main approaches: Prescriptive Path and Performance Path

Mike D
Mike D
Mar 28, 2025
8
 mins read

Look—if you’re building a house in Connecticut, you’ve got to meet energy code. That’s non-negotiable.

But here’s where it gets interesting: there are two different ways to hit those energy targets. One’s like painting by numbers. The other’s more like jazz. And which one you choose can either make your life easier—or way more expensive.

Let’s break it down like you’re on the job site with a coffee in hand.

Option 1: The Prescriptive Path (a.k.a. The Rule-Follower’s Route)

This one’s the “just check the boxes” approach. You follow a fixed set of rules—insulation R-values, window ratings, HVAC specs—and you don’t color outside the lines. No trade-offs. No modeling. Just do exactly what the book says.

What it looks like:

  • Stick to the IECC’s list of requirements
  • Use X inches of insulation in the attic, Y type of windows, Z HVAC efficiency
  • No flexibility. Every component has to meet or exceed code
  • It’s easy to inspect, and town officials love it because there’s nothing to calculate

When it works:

  • Basic builds
  • Tight budgets
  • When you’re not doing anything fancy with design or layout

Downside?

You might end up spending more on materials than you need to. There's no room to make smart trade-offs.

Option 2: The Performance Path (a.k.a. The Smarter, Custom Route)

This is for folks who want flexibility without sacrificing performance. Instead of blindly following the checklist, you build an energy model of the home and prove it performs just as well—or better.

How it works:

  • Bring in a HERS rater to model the home’s predicted energy use
  • Play with trade-offs—like using a high-efficiency HVAC so you can ease up on insulation in certain spots
  • Use real data (climate, design, materials) to show your plan meets the code

When it’s worth it:

  • Custom homes
  • Unique layouts or design goals
  • You want to balance comfort, cost, and creativity
  • You’re aiming for rebates or certifications (like Energy Star or Zero Energy Ready)

So How Does This Energy Modeling Thing Actually Work?

Let’s say you’re using the Performance Path. Here’s what goes into that energy model:

  • Insulation types and thicknesses
  • Window and door specs
  • HVAC system efficiency
  • Air sealing and ventilation
  • Any renewables (solar, heat pumps, etc.)
  • Actual Connecticut weather data

Two ways to slice it:

  1. Envelope Trade-Off Method – Over-insulate one area, ease up in another
  2. Whole-House Performance Method – Balance everything across the board: insulation, HVAC, lighting, etc.

Either way, you prove the home performs at—or above—the IECC baseline. Boom. You’re compliant, but without the handcuffs.

Energy Points: How You Earn ’Em

Both paths let you rack up energy efficiency “points,” but they score it differently:

Performance Path:

  • Points for total projected energy savings vs. baseline
  • Big picture thinking

Prescriptive Path:

  • Points for specific upgrades—better HVAC, more insulation, tighter ducts, etc.
  • Checkbox system

Same goes for water efficiency:

  • Performance Path: Modeled using the Water Rating Index (WRI)
  • Prescriptive Path: Earn points for low-flow fixtures, smart irrigation, efficient appliances

Why Most Pros Are Moving Toward the Performance Path

Let’s be real: it takes more planning up front, but the Performance Path gives you more control, more efficiency, and often more savings. Here’s why builders are going that route:

  • 💰 Cost-effective: Use money where it matters—don’t overspend where you don’t need to
  • 📐 Design freedom: Build what you want, not just what the code says
  • 🏡 Real-world comfort: Better air sealing, better performance, lower bills
  • 📉 Long-term payoff: Homeowners get comfort and efficiency for years

Some towns in CT are even nudging builders toward Performance-only compliance because they know it works better. It’s where the industry is heading.

Nealon Insulation: We Help You Nail This

Whether you’re building custom or cookie-cutter, Nealon Insulation knows how to make sure your insulation plan works—and passes inspection.

Here’s what we bring to the table:

✅ Energy code expertise (we’ve been at this since 1977)
✅ Blown-in cellulose insulation that crushes fiberglass in performance
✅ HERS rater partnerships if you want to go the performance route
✅ Guidance on EnergizeCT rebates and how to qualify

Let’s get your project dialed in—no guesswork, no headaches, no missed inspections.

📞 Give us a call. We’ll walk you through which path makes sense for your build—and how to make it airtight from day one.

Mold
Pests

How the Wrong Insulation Can Lead to Moisture Problems

Many homeowners think adding insulation will automatically make their homes more energy-efficient and comfortable. While that’s mostly true, choosing the wrong insulation or installing it incorrectly can actually create serious moisture problems, leading to mold growth, wood rot, and poor indoor air quality.

Mike D
Mike D
Mar 26, 2025
5
 mins read

Most people think insulation is just about keeping warm in the winter and cool in the summer. And yeah, that’s part of it. But here’s what nobody tells you:

Pick the wrong insulation—or install it wrong—and you’re basically inviting moisture, mold, and rot into your home like they’re old buddies.

We’ve seen it happen more times than we can count. So let’s walk through where things go sideways—and how to keep your home bone-dry and mold-free.

Insulation vs. Moisture: The Hidden Battle

Good insulation does more than trap heat. It plays defense against moisture sneaking into places it doesn’t belong.

A solid insulation setup should:

  • Keep warm, humid air from hitting cold surfaces (that’s how condensation happens)
  • Let trapped moisture escape so it doesn’t sit and fester
  • Work with ventilation to keep humidity levels balanced year-round

Miss any of those, and you're asking for trouble—like mold behind the walls or soggy insulation that stops doing its job.

Not All Insulation Plays Nice with Moisture

Here’s where things get real. Some insulation materials handle moisture like a pro. Others act like a sponge or a sealed jar. Either way, that’s bad news.

🚩 Fiberglass: The Damp Sponge

  • The Problem: Fiberglass batts are basically fluffy mats that absorb water if it gets in—and they hold onto it like a grudge.
  • The Risk: Trapped moisture = mold city. Once it starts, good luck getting it out without tearing open your walls.
  • Mike’s Advice: If you have to use fiberglass, pair it with a solid vapor barrier. Otherwise, don’t be surprised when you smell mildew by fall.

🚩 Spray Foam: The Airtight Trap

  • The Problem: Closed-cell spray foam seals everything tight—which is great unless moisture gets in. Then it’s trapped with nowhere to go.
  • The Risk: You can end up with hidden rot behind the foam, and you won’t even know it until it’s a major repair job.
  • Mike’s Advice: Spray foam is high-performance stuff, but it’s not forgiving. If your installer cuts corners, you’ll pay for it later.

✅ Cellulose: The Moisture Whisperer

  • The Best Bet: Blown-in cellulose is like the Swiss Army knife of insulation—it manages moisture naturally.
  • Why It Works: It’s vapor-permeable (lets humidity move), treated with mold-fighting borates, and doesn’t freak out when it gets damp.
  • Mike’s Take: If you live in Connecticut and care about long-term comfort and mold prevention, cellulose is your best friend.

How Mold Creeps In

Mold needs three things:

  1. Moisture (from condensation, leaks, or bad ventilation)
  2. A food source (wood, drywall, insulation—basically your whole house)
  3. Warm temps (yep, that’s your attic and basement)

When insulation’s done wrong, you’re basically giving mold the VIP pass.

Common Offenders:

⚠️ Attic Mold:

  • Warm air rises from the living space
  • Hits a cold roof deck
  • Condensation forms, wood stays wet, mold moves in

⚠️ Basement & Crawlspace Mold:

  • Summer humidity + cold concrete walls = condensation
  • Fiberglass down there just soaks it all up

⚠️ Wall Cavity Mold:

  • Poor spray foam or fiberglass jobs leave gaps or trap water
  • You don’t see it—but it’s definitely growing

Mike’s Moisture-Proof Insulation Combo

Here’s what we use to keep houses dry, tight, and mold-free:

Blown-In Cellulose

  • Regulates moisture
  • Treated with borates (so mold and pests hate it)
  • Fills every nook and cranny

Rigid Foam Board

  • Perfect for basements and crawlspaces
  • Doesn’t soak up water
  • Durable and long-lasting

Proper Air Sealing + Ventilation

  • Keeps humid air out
  • Lets moisture escape
  • Keeps indoor air fresh, not funky

Why Nealon Insulation?

We’ve been insulating Connecticut homes since 1977. We’ve seen every moisture mess you can imagine—and more than a few we wish we hadn’t.

When you work with us, here’s what you get:

Moisture-smart insulation assessments – We don’t just quote. We investigate.
Cellulose installed the right way – Dense-packed and dialed in.
Air sealing and ventilation solutions – Because insulation is only half the battle.

If your home has drafty corners, mystery odors, or suspicious spots on the ceiling, it might be time to take a closer look at your insulation—and your moisture game.

📞 Give Nealon Insulation a call. We’ll make sure your home stays warm, dry, and worry-free.

Experienced Contractor
General Information

Why Experience Matters When Choosing an Insulation Company

When it comes to insulating your home, choosing the right contractor is just as important as selecting the right type of insulation. Insulation is an investment that affects your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and even structural integrity—so you want to make sure it’s done right the first time.

Mike D
Mike D
Mar 24, 2025
4
 mins read

Insulation isn’t one of those “set it and forget it” jobs. If it’s done right, your home runs like a well-oiled machine—quiet, cozy, and energy-efficient. If it’s done wrong? You’re looking at drafty rooms, sky-high energy bills, and maybe even mold or rot down the line.

That’s why experience matters. And not the “we watched a few YouTube videos” kind. We’re talking decades in the field, solving real problems in real homes.

At Nealon Insulation, we’ve been doing this since 1977. Nearly 50 years of crawling through attics, sealing up basements, and dialing in insulation systems across the Connecticut shoreline. Here’s why that kind of experience makes all the difference.

1. Connecticut Homes Are No Joke

Insulating a shoreline home in Connecticut isn’t the same as working on a condo in Phoenix. We’ve got a full four seasons to deal with—and they don’t mess around.

What we’ve learned after 48 years here:

  • Moisture is enemy #1. Coastal humidity will sneak into your walls and rot your framing if your insulation isn’t moisture-smart.
  • Cold snaps and heat waves are real. Your insulation has to pull double duty—keeping heat in during winter and out during summer.
  • Local codes matter. And they’re strict. An experienced contractor doesn’t just meet code—they design to perform.

Bottom line: you don’t want someone learning on your house. You want someone who’s already made—and learned from—the mistakes. That’s us.

2. Rookie Mistakes Cost You

Want to know the fastest way to ruin a perfectly good insulation job?

  • Skip the air sealing. Without it, insulation just becomes expensive fluff.
  • Compress the batts. That flattens your R-value faster than a pancake.
  • Use the wrong material. Spray foam in the wrong spot, or fiberglass in a crawlspace? Enjoy your future mold problem.
  • Ignore moisture control. Say hello to black spots on your ceiling.

We’ve seen these screw-ups again and again. And the fix usually costs more than doing it right the first time. Lucky for you, that’s our specialty.

3. We Know Which Materials Actually Work

Not all insulation is created equal. And not every contractor understands when to use what.

Here’s what we lean on at Nealon:
Cellulose insulation – Our go-to. It’s dense, air-sealing, mold-resistant, and made from recycled materials.
Borate treatment – Keeps pests and mold at bay without harsh chemicals.
Material matching – We choose the right stuff for the right spot—attics, basements, walls, crawlspaces. No guesswork.

We don’t do cookie-cutter installs. We build high-performance systems that work for your house.

4. We’ve Got Receipts

Experience is great. But you know what really proves it? A long line of happy customers.

After nearly five decades, we’ve built:

  • A wall full of five-star reviews
  • Repeat customers who call us back for every project
  • Relationships with builders, HVAC pros, and inspectors across Connecticut

We’ve earned trust the hard way—by showing up, doing great work, and standing behind it.

5. We Help You Get Paid (Thanks, EnergizeCT)

Rebates and incentives are nice—but they’re also a pain to figure out on your own. Newer contractors usually skip them altogether. Not us.

As a certified EnergizeCT contractor, we:💰 Lower your upfront costs with real rebate dollars
📋 Handle the paperwork so you don’t have to
Make sure you qualify by doing things the right way

Don’t leave money on the table. We’ll help you cash in while you tighten up your home.

6. We’re Still Here Tomorrow

Insulation isn’t a one-and-done thing. Homes settle. Codes change. You might need tweaks or upgrades down the line.

With Nealon, you’re not just getting a contractor—you’re getting a long-term partner. We’ve been doing this since bell bottoms were a thing. We’re not going anywhere.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to insulating your home, experience isn’t a nice-to-have—it’s the whole game. The difference between a warm, efficient home and a money pit often comes down to who installs your insulation.

Nealon Insulation brings:✅ Nearly 50 years of boots-on-the-ground expertise
✅ The best materials, installed by pros
✅ Knowledge of Connecticut’s wild weather and tighter-than-ever codes
✅ A track record of getting it right, every time

Don’t roll the dice on your comfort or your energy bills. Call Nealon Insulation and get the job done right the first time.

👉 Free consultation. No pressure. Just honest advice.

Energy Efficient Home
Connecticut

How Much Insulation Do I Need in Connecticut? (R-Values Explained)

If you’re wondering how much insulation your Connecticut home needs, you’re not alone. Proper insulation is key to keeping your home warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and energy-efficient year-round—but knowing the right R-value for your home is crucial.

Mike D
Mike D
Mar 21, 2025
6
 mins read

Let’s cut to the chase: if your house is drafty in the winter and sticky in the summer, it probably doesn’t have enough insulation—or the right kind. A lot of folks think insulation is just fluff in the attic. It’s not. It’s your home’s armor against brutal New England winters, swampy summers, and soul-crushing energy bills.

The key to getting insulation right in Connecticut? Understanding R-value.

Let’s break it down like a contractor who actually works on houses (not just writes blogs about them).

What Is R-Value and Why Should You Care?

R-value is just a fancy way of measuring how good insulation is at resisting heat flow.

Higher R-value = better performance.

Think of it like SPF for your house—except instead of blocking sunburn, it blocks your hard-earned heat from leaking out all winter and keeps hot, muggy air from sneaking in all summer.

In Connecticut, we don’t mess around with mild weather. If your insulation isn’t pulling its weight, your HVAC system is working overtime, and your wallet is taking the hit.

How Much Insulation Do Connecticut Homes Need?

Connecticut sits in Climate Zone 5 (translation: cold enough that you need solid insulation, but not quite Alaska).

Here’s what the pros—and the U.S. Department of Energy—recommend:

If your current insulation doesn’t hit these numbers, you’re probably heating the great outdoors.

Signs Your Home Needs More Insulation

You don’t need a thermal camera to know something’s off. Just look for the usual suspects:

🚩 Energy bills climbing like they’re training for Everest
🚩 One room’s freezing, another’s a sauna
🚩 Drafts that make your socks curl
🚩 Cold floors, especially above the garage or crawlspace
🚩 Icicles hanging from your roof like medieval torture devices (aka ice dams)
🚩 Bare spots in the attic where you can see the joists—yeah, that’s not enough insulation

If this sounds familiar, it’s time to bulk up your insulation game.

Best Insulation for Connecticut Homes (Spoiler: It’s Not Fiberglass)

At Nealon Insulation, we’ve tried it all. We’ve installed fiberglass, foam, cellulose—you name it. After 48 years of doing this, here’s our honest take:

🥇 Cellulose Insulation (Our MVP)

  • Stops air leaks better than fiberglass
  • Made from 85% recycled paper (and a little contractor-grade magic)
  • Treated with borates to stop pests from making it their Airbnb
  • Handles New England’s freeze-thaw-humidity circus like a champ

Other Options (Fine, But Not Our Favorite):

  • Fiberglass batts – Cheap upfront, but leaks air like a busted screen door
  • Spray foam – Great air seal, but pricey and tough to remove later
  • Rigid foam board – Solid for basements or foundation walls, not for every spot

If you’re aiming for high performance and fewer headaches, cellulose is king—especially in our neck of the woods.

Want to Save Money? EnergizeCT Can Help

You don’t have to foot the insulation bill all by yourself. Connecticut’s EnergizeCT program offers some solid rebates—if you know how to get them.

Here’s how it works:

✅ We send a pro to check your home’s insulation levels (part of a Home Energy Audit)
✅ You get instant discounts on cellulose insulation upgrades
✅ You pocket the long-term energy savings—and get a more comfortable home while you’re at it

Nealon Insulation is a certified contractor with EnergizeCT, which means we do the paperwork, file the rebates, and help you pay less upfront.

Why Nealon? Because We’ve Been Doing This Since Jimmy Carter Was President

That’s not a joke—we’ve been insulating homes since 1977.

✔ We know Connecticut homes inside and out
✔ We hit the right R-values the first time
✔ We use materials that actually work
✔ We help you qualify for every rebate you're eligible for
✔ And we don’t ghost you after install—we’re around for questions, upgrades, and tune-ups

Don’t Guess. Get an Expert to Take a Look.

Insulation isn’t just about staying warm—it’s about doing more with less energy, saving money, and avoiding headaches later.

📞 Contact Nealon Insulation for a free consultation. We’ll check your current R-values, give you a straight answer on what you need, and show you how much you can save with EnergizeCT.

Warm in winter, cool in summer, dry all year. That’s how a Connecticut home should feel. Let’s make it happen.

Foam Board Insulation
General Information

10 of the Most Common Questions About Insulation—Answered!

Insulation is one of the most important upgrades you can make to your home, but many homeowners have questions about how it works, what type to choose, and how it impacts energy efficiency. To help, we’ve answered 10 of the most common insulation questions below!

Mike D
Mike D
Mar 19, 2025
5
 mins read

Let’s cut to it—insulation’s one of the best bang-for-your-buck upgrades you can make to your home. But most folks aren’t sure what type to get, where to put it, or how it actually affects the comfort of their place.

After 40+ years of crawling through attics and tearing out fiberglass that raccoons used as a five-star hotel, we’ve heard just about every insulation question there is. Here are ten of the big ones—with answers that won’t make your eyes glaze over.

1. How do I know if my home needs more insulation?

Easy. If your home was built before TikTok existed (or even MySpace), it probably needs more. But here are some dead giveaways:

✔️ Your energy bills could qualify for a college loan
✔️ It’s drafty in winter and sweltering in summer
✔️ Rooms feel like they belong to different time zones
✔️ Floors are cold enough to store meat on
✔️ You get ice dams on the roof every winter

If any of these sound familiar, an insulation upgrade will help. And fast.

2. What kind of insulation should I use?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here, but let’s break down the big three:

  • Spray Foam Insulation – Great for air sealing, long-lasting, but pricey. Like “Yikes” pricey. And hard to remove if you change your mind later.
  • Cellulose Insulation – Made from recycled newspaper, treated for fire and pests, and great for retrofits (this is our specialty). Blown-in cellulose seals up nooks and crannies better than your old caulking gun ever could.
  • Fiberglass Insulation – Cheap, familiar, and still used a lot, but not the best at stopping airflow. Mice love it. We don’t.

Truth is, the best option depends on your home, budget, and goals. We do all three—so we’ll steer you straight, not just push what’s on the truck.

3. Will insulation really lower my energy bills?

Yes. And not by a couple bucks—up to 30%. Insulation keeps warm air in during winter and the hot stuff out in summer. That means your HVAC system gets to relax, and your wallet does too.

4. Where should I insulate?

Start at the top and work down:

✔️ Attic – #1 place for heat loss (and gain).
✔️ Walls – Especially if you live in a drafty old beauty from the 1920s.
✔️ Basement/crawl space – Helps keep floors warmer and stops cold air from creeping in.
✔️ Attached garage – If there’s a bedroom over it, trust me, you’ll feel the difference.

5. How long does insulation last?

A solid 20–30 years if it stays dry and untouched. Cellulose tends to age better than fiberglass, and spray foam sticks around forever (which is both a pro and a con, depending on who you ask). But water, pests, or poor installation can cut that lifespan way down.

6. What’s R-value, and does it really matter?

R-value measures how well insulation resists heat. Higher R = better insulation. But here’s the kicker—air sealing is just as important. You could have sky-high R-value, but if there are gaps, you're still heating the great outdoors.

That’s why dense-packed cellulose or closed-cell spray foam can give you a real edge. They insulate and seal air leaks.

7. Can insulation make my house quieter?

You bet. We’ve had clients call back and say they didn’t realize how loud the neighbor’s lawnmower was until it stopped waking them up. Insulation in your walls and attic cuts down outside noise and keeps things peaceful inside.

8. Will insulation keep pests out?

Some types, yes. Cellulose is treated with borate—a pest deterrent that mice and bugs hate. Fiberglass? Not so much. Rodents see that stuff as prime real estate. We’ve pulled out more mouse condos from fiberglass than I care to admit.

9. What does insulation cost?

Here’s the rough ballpark for Connecticut homes:

  • Blown-in cellulose or fiberglass – $1.00–$1.50 per sq. ft.
  • Spray foam – $2.00–$6.00 per sq. ft.
  • Batt fiberglass (those pink rolls) – $0.50–$1.25 per sq. ft.

Don’t forget—if you live in CT, EnergizeCT rebates can shave a big chunk off those costs. We help homeowners access those programs all the time.

10. Should I insulate before replacing my HVAC?

Absolutely. If your insulation is lousy, you’re throwing good money after bad with that shiny new heat pump. Insulate first, and you might be able to downsize your HVAC—or run it less, save cash, and extend its life. That’s what we call a win-win-win.

Wrap-up

Insulation isn’t sexy. You don’t show it off at dinner parties. But you sure notice when it’s missing. Your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and even resale value all depend on getting this stuff right.

Want to figure out what your home really needs? That’s what we’re here for. We’ve been insulating Connecticut homes since bell bottoms were in style (the first time). Reach out for a no-BS assessment and we’ll steer you right.

👉 Contact us here to answers for more insulation related questions!

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Our Values

Building Trust Through Excellence, One Home At A Time

Integrity First and Always

We treat every home as if it were our own, providing honest assessments and transparent recommendations.

Quality Without Compromise

We use only premium materials and proven installation techniques.

Customer-First Approach

From your first energy assessment to the final inspection, your satisfaction is our priority.

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Ready to transform your home into an energy-efficient haven? Schedule your free Estimate today and experience the Nealon difference for yourself.

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