How do you calculate insulation batts needed for walls?

In order to calculate the amount of insulation batts needed, first you need to calculate the area to be insulated in square meters (m2). Calculating the square metre (m2) area of your walls is actually quite easy, all you need to do is multiply the length x width. For more complex shaped walls, we recommend breaking them down in to separate rectangles and them adding them together, this will give you the total area. Just remember, that there are a range of factors affecting the price of insulation, these include R-value, insulation type and brand.

How to calculate insulation coverage?

To calculate the square meters of a rectangular room, measure the length and width of the room and them multiple them together.

For example;

8m x 5m = 40m2

If you are planning on insulating more than one room, calculate the square meters for each room and then add them together.

For example;

8m x 5m = 40m2

7m x 5m = 35m2

40m2 + 35m2 = 75m2

So, this means that 75m2 would be the total amount of batt insulation you would need to purchase to insulate the two rooms you have measured.  

Which insulation is best for me?

Once you have calculated the total area, you will need to decide which insulation is best for you. At Pricewise insulation we have a variety of batt insulation brands and materials to choose from. Some of our most popular brands include; Knauf Earthwool, Autex Greenstuf, CSR Bradford and Fletcher. The two most common materials used for batt insulation are glasswool, and polyester. When you have chosen which material type and brand to use, then it is time to think about R-value ratings and the thermal performance of the insulation product. Remember that the higher the R-value the better its thermal resistance and performance. For wall batt insulation a minimum of R2.0 is recommend by the Building Code of Australia (BCA), however upgrading to an R2.5 is will improve both thermal and acoustic performance of your home. Lastly, you will need to measure the width and depth of your wall studs, so that you can purchase the right size of insulation batts. Now, you are ready to order your batt insulation online or give us a call on 1300 729 639!

How to keep insulation waste to minimum?

The easiest way to reduce insulation waste is by ordering the required quantity and size of insulation. This means you should be able to fit batt insulation between wall studs without cutting them, thus reducing off-cuts of insulation. However, if there are any off-cuts they can be used in the smaller or hard to reach places. We also recommend taking off 10% for framing, this will decrease the risk of having too much left over insulation. Just remember, a little extra insulation is better than having too little and not finishing the job properly.