What does 'R-value' measure in insulation?

'R-value' measures the insulation's resistance to heat transfer. This measure is essential for understanding how effective an insulation material is at slowing down the transfer of heat between the inside and outside of a building. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation's effectiveness in reducing heat loss during colder months or heat gain during warmer ones.

In the context of building energy efficiency, insulation with a high R-value contributes to maintaining a comfortable indoor environment while minimizing energy costs. Factors such as the material type, thickness, and density all influence the R-value, but the measure specifically quantifies thermal resistance rather than cost-effectiveness, fire resistance, or just thickness alone. A focus on R-value supports informed decisions about insulation materials and their performance in energy conservation efforts.