If Cincinnati’s weather already has you reaching for another blanket, you might be thinking of ways you can improve your home’s energy performance. After all, you can only turn the thermostat down so low before your family starts to mutiny. In many cases, attic insulation is actually the culprit for draftiness in the lower levels and higher utility costs.
If you’re considering an upgrade— or starting fresh with a new home construction—you’ll want to decide if faced or unfaced attic insulation is right for you. What’s the difference? In plain terms, faced insulation has a paper or foil layer to block moisture, while unfaced insulation is just the fluff, no barrier attached. Picking the right type can help keep that cold Ohio wind out and your heating bills down.
What Is Faced Insulation?
Faced insulation is basically your standard fiberglass or cellulose insulation with a sheet of kraft paper or shiny foil stuck to one side. That paper’s not just there for looks—it acts as a vapor barrier to block humidity that loves to sneak into attics when our weather swings back and forth.
The Good Stuff
- Blocks moisture before it causes trouble
- Meets building regulations for attics in new homes
- Handy for the first layer of insulation
But Watch Out For…
- Needs to be installed in the right direction (paper/facing side down)
- Don’t try to use it as a dual layer on old insulation; it can trap moisture
What Is Unfaced Insulation?
Unfaced insulation comes with no paper or foil attached—just straight-up insulation. Folks often use it to top off what they already have, especially if they’re looking for more R-value without the risk of trapping moisture.
The Good Stuff
- Easy to add on top of old insulation
- Great pick for renovations or older homes
But Watch Out For…
- Won’t stop moisture by itself
- Might need a vapor barrier in certain spots
Climate Considerations for Cincinnati
Cincinnati’s got it all—humid summers, cold snaps that sneak up on you, and plenty of rain. Our local codes often call for a vapor barrier in new builds, especially where the air gets humid. If you’re re-insulating an older attic, unfaced is often safer. For new work, keep the facing toward the inside living space, so warmth stays in and moisture stays out.
What Is a Vapor Barrier?
The Department of Energy defines vapor barriers as part of a moisture control strategy that reduces the rate at which water vapor can move through a material. The ability of a material to slow the diffusion of water is measured in units known as “perms,” or permeability.
Cost and Energy Efficiency
Around Cincinnati, you’ll see attic batt insulation installed for $0.65–$1.00 per square foot. Aim for R-49 to R-60 for the best protection against our chilly winters—you’ll see lower bills for years to come.
When Faced Attic Insulation Makes Sense
Faced attic insulation makes perfect sense if you’re starting fresh in a new build or replacing all of your old insulation. That paper or foil facing acts as an important vapor barrier—keeping Cincinnati’s damp summer air and winter condensation from getting into your attic structure.
It’s especially important on the first layer, laid right against the attic floor or walls, with the facing pointed toward the house. Using faced batts helps meet local code, protects your home from hidden moisture problems, and sets a solid foundation for comfort. It’s the go-to option for staying dry and warm, season after season.
When Unfaced Attic Insulation Makes Sense
Unfaced attic insulation is a smart pick if you’re simply adding more insulation on top of what’s already there—especially in older Cincinnati homes where you need a boost in R-value but don’t want to risk trapping moisture between layers. It works great for retrofits, upgrades, or any attic where a vapor barrier is already in place from the initial install.
Unfaced insulation is easy to work with, stacks neatly, and helps keep drafts out without messing up your home’s moisture control. It’s a practical, cost-friendly way to make sure every corner of your attic does its job.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Whether you’re doing an upgrade or a new build, keep these common insulation issues in mind when planning your attic insulation approach. Avoid:
- Doubling up faced insulation
- Facing oriented the wrong way
- Skipping vapor barriers where they’re needed
- Packing those batts too tight (kills the R-value)
Attic Insulation FAQs
Faced for brand new installs. Unfaced for adding onto old insulation.
Nope. That traps moisture and causes headaches down the road.
Go for at least R-49; higher is better for most homes.
Toward you—inside, where it’s warm.
Connect With Valley Insulation for Your Attic Insulation Needs
Ready for a more comfortable, energy-efficient home? Reach out to Valley Insulation, local folks who know Greater Cincinnati homes inside and out. Get an honest, hassle-free evaluation. We’ll help you kick cold drafts to the curb before winter shows up!