A beach house has unique needs. Because of the higher exposure to storms, wind, and high humidity on the coast, weatherproofing your Duval beach house is vital to maintaining its comfort and durability.
Among the decisions you’ll have to make for your home is what type of insulation. In this guide, you’ll learn about expert opinions on keeping your beach house safe from the terrors of dangerous weather.
The Best Insulation Options
Homebuilders and homeowners agree that closed-cell insulation is the best choice for waterfront homes. This insulation is considered to be a strong choice because of the capacity for humidity and moisture to cause substantial structural issues.
Closed-cell insulation is proven to seal out moisture, making your home’s environment comfortable and stress-free even during the rainy season. It’s also excellent for reducing heat flow and blocking out excessive sounds that roaring winds could cause.
While closed-cell insulation is the safest overall choice, it’s worth discussing the needs of specific climates so you’re positive you’re getting the proper insulation for your home. It’s smart to work with industry professionals to have a better look at what would benefit your specific home the most.
What Is Closed-Cell Insulation?
Closed-cell insulation is a dense spray foam insulation. It is recommended because of its ability to adhere to surfaces it is applied to, essentially fortifying the integrity of your home. It’s fantastic at protecting homes against the wind, water, and sound. It’s also a much greener option when compared to fiberglass insulation.
For maximum sealing, you can use closed-cell spray foam insulation in your attic, floor, and the walls of your beach home.
Attic Insulation
Because heat rises, most heat exits your home through your roof. And regardless of how well your walls may be insulated, heat will still find its way up and out. That’s why attic insulation is crucial for keeping your home comfortable in any weather.
Attics will typically be insulated with cellulose, fiberglass, or spray foam insulation. Each of these types of insulation has its pros and cons.
Cellulose
A tried and trustworthy member of the insulation family, cellulose has been around the longest. It’s made from recycled materials like denim fabric and is installed on your attic floor.
Cellulose is attractive for homeowners because it tends to be more affordable, but it cannot create an air seal because it can move around. If this happens, hot air can move throughout your attic, nearly defeating the purpose of having the insulation installed in the first place.
Fiberglass
Another common insulation choice, fiberglass, is excellent for homeowners looking to save on insulation costs. However, it has many of the same problems that cellulose insulation does and is arguably the least effective option for attics.
Fiberglass is, however, much more effective in walls, where it comes in the form of rolls or batts. You can also combine fiberglass with spray foam for additional protection if needed.
Spray Foam
While cellulose and fiberglass are efficient insulators, only spray foam will help restrict airflow to insulate your beach house. It will provide your attic with a much tighter air seal due to its ability to expand up to 100 times its size.
Spray foam also can’t retain water, so you can avoid problems like mold or rotting if you’re dealing with extreme storms. And for extra peace of mind, foam is considered much more fire safe than the other two options.
The Winner
The choice is clear: closed-cell spray foam insulation will be the best value and protection for your Duval beach house. While other insulations might be more affordable, they don’t offer nearly as much protection from the elements, something beach houses desperately need.