Insulation needs in a mild climate
I am thinking about a move to a milder climate, and building there, so insulation needs are on my mind today.
I am now in upstate NY’s Adirondack mountains, at 2000 feet elevation, with long cold winters. We insulate here with closed cell urethane sprayed foam, 3 inches min in walls, 7 inches min in cathedral cold roof ceilings, and 14 inches blown cellulose in attic spaces under vented roofs. A whole lot of attention goes into sealing up cracks to minimize air infiltration in the building envelope.
We have more or less 8,000 heating degree days, and the location I am scouting in NC’s western mountain area has less than half of that.
The properties I am scouting all are at about 2000 feet elevation, and summer nights are always cool, even after hot afternoons.
Here are some figures:
- Zero degree days here, 33, there, 0.
- Freezing days here, 170, there, 80.
- 90-degree days, 8, there, 5.
Where can I get some facts on how to best insulate a new house in this new location?
Replies
http://www.buildingscience.com/designsthatwork/mixedhumid/default.htm