What is the difference between foam board insulation and fiberglass insulation?

Loose-fill fiberglass insulation requires professional installation and special equipment. When comparing foam board insulation vs fiberglass, thermal performance is a key factor to evaluate. The thermal performance of insulation is measured in R-value. A higher R-value means that the insulation performs better at reducing heat loss through it.

Can you use rigid foam board instead of fiberglass insulation?

However, you can use rigid foam board instead of spray or fiberglass insulation where it makes sense, such as in wall cavities that may risk becoming wet or moist. Fiberglass insulation consists of tightly packed long rolls or individual batts (single unrolled pieces) of spun fiberglass fibers.

What is the difference between rigid foam and fiberglass insulation?

Higher R-values indicate better insulating values. With both rigid foam and fiberglass, the R-values are mostly determined by the thickness of the insulating material. Rigid foam insulation packs in more R-value per cubic inch than fiberglass insulation does.

Is fibreglass insulation a good alternative?

In spite of its structure and the high-energy manufacturing process, fibreglass insulation was considered an excellent alternative. Fibreglass insulation, whether in the form of batts, rolls or blown insulation, works similarly to other types of insulation in that it traps escaping heat within its structure.

Is fiberglass insulation cheaper than polyiso?

Fiberglass insulation material costs are lower than polyiso, but that’s only part of the picture. The other half of the equation is installation. Both foam board insulation and fiberglass are easy to install and can be done as a do-it-yourself project for small jobs. Professional installation costs are similar.

Does foam board insulation need a vapor barrier?

Foil-faced foam board insulation (polyisocyanurate) is a vapor barrier and does not require an additional vapor barrier. Rigid foam board insulation without foil may require a vapor barrier. Fiberglass insulation is flexible and can fit around vents, wires, and wall bracing. Fiberglass insulation cuts with sharp scissors or a utility knife.