The Different Types of Insulation to Consider for Your New Home Build

When building a new home, you’re making countless decisions—from layout and flooring to cabinets and lighting. But one often-overlooked decision can make a huge impact on your comfort, energy bills, and long-term value: insulation.

At Yelinko Builders, we believe energy efficiency and indoor comfort should be built in from the start. That’s why choosing the right type of insulation is a critical part of every custom home we build.

Let’s walk through the most common types of insulation and how to choose what’s best for your new home.

Fiberglass Batt Insulation

What it is: Pre-cut panels made of fine glass fibers, commonly used in walls, attics, and floors.

Pros:

• Affordable and widely available

• Easy to install

• Good thermal resistance (R-value)

Best for: Standard framed walls and attics where space is accessible during construction.

Blown-In (Loose Fill) Insulation

What it is: Small particles of fiberglass or cellulose blown into cavities using special equipment.

Pros:

• Great for filling odd-shaped areas and gaps

• Can achieve high R-values in attic spaces

• Ideal for retrofits and new builds

Best for: Attics and hard-to-reach cavities where batts aren’t practical.

Spray Foam Insulation

What it is: A chemical compound sprayed into wall or ceiling cavities, expanding to fill gaps and harden in place.

Types:

• Open-cell: Softer and more flexible

• Closed-cell: Denser with a higher R-value and moisture resistance

Pros:

• Air-sealing and insulation in one

• Excellent thermal performance

• Adds structural strength (closed-cell)

Best for: Homeowners looking for superior energy efficiency, especially in high-performance homes.

Cellulose Insulation

What it is: Recycled paper treated with fire retardants, typically blown in.

Pros:

• Eco-friendly

• Great at reducing air leaks and noise

• High R-value per inch

Best for: Environmentally conscious builds and attic retrofits.

Rigid Foam Board Insulation

What it is: Firm panels made from polystyrene, polyisocyanurate, or polyurethane.

Pros:

• High R-value with minimal thickness

• Great for continuous insulation

• Moisture-resistant

Best for: Basement walls, foundation slabs, and exterior wall sheathing.

Choosing the Right Insulation for Your Build

The best insulation for your home depends on:

• Your local climate (cold winters vs. hot summers)

• Your budget

• The parts of the home being insulated

• Your energy efficiency goals

At Yelinko Builders, we work with energy consultants and inspectors to ensure your home is well-sealed, well-insulated, and up to code—giving you long-term comfort and lower utility bills.

Let’s Build Smart, From the Ground Up

When you build with Yelinko Builders, you're not just getting beautiful craftsmanship—you’re getting a home that performs. Ready to design your custom home with insulation that fits your goals?

Contact us today for a consultation or to learn more about our energy-efficient homebuilding process.