If you are a production homebuilder, you know the importance of delivering energy-efficient, comfortable homes at a competitive cost. While traditional cavity insulation like fiberglass or cellulose is a standard go-to, it’s worth considering whether this approach alone is enough. Think about it: in freezing conditions, would you rely solely on insulation stuffed between your ribs, or would you add a coat that wraps you from head to toe? This is the difference between cavity insulation and pairing it with continuous insulation (CI).
Cavity insulation reduces heat transfer within wall cavities, but leaves significant opportunities for heat loss through thermal bridging. These thermal bridges—created by framing components such as studs and headers—act as pathways for heat to escape in the winter, or for heat to enter in the summer. In fact, framing can make up 18-24% of a wall’s surface area, compromising the home’s energy performance year round.
Continuous insulation solves this problem. Applied as an uninterrupted layer on the exterior of the building, CI eliminates thermal bridges and enhances energy performance. In the summer, especially in southern climates, CI prevents hot outdoor air from infiltrating the home, maintaining a consistent indoor temperature, and minimizing strain on cooling systems. This reduces energy costs and improves comfort by keeping homes cooler without excessive reliance on air conditioning.
From a builder's perspective, CI also extends the home’s durability by protecting the framing from thermal stress caused by extreme temperature fluctuations. Additionally, it reduces condensation risks, which are common in humid southern climates, preventing mold and moisture issues.
As consumer demand for energy-efficient homes grows, combining cavity insulation with CI can set your homes apart while aligning with future-ready building standards.
So, why don’t our homes “wear coats?” The smartest builders know that CI works in every climate, in every season. Shouldn’t your homes be leading the way?