There are many insulation options for pole barns and buildings. Choosing the right one depends on your intended utilization of the building, budget, and weather.

Loose Fills
Loose fills are made from fiberglass, paper fiber, rock wool, and vermiculite. They are either blown in place or poured from a bag. Cellulose is the most widely used loose fill and is often used for already in place walls.

Blankets
These are made of fiberglass sheets coming in various widths and thicknesses. They come ready to fit between 16" and 24" on center studs. Unfaced blankets are cheaper than its foil backed counterpart.

Rigid Boards
These are boards made of foam and are best for moisture resistance. Blueboard has twice the R value of fiberglass but is quite expensive compared to other products providing comparable R value. These products are generally used when fiberglass won't work due to space limitations or moisture conditions.

Straw Bale
For excellent sound deadening and insulation an unusual option is the use of straw bale. These products provide excellent energy savings over long periods of time for pole buildings.

Type of Material	R-Value / inch	Appropriate Applications
Cellulose	3.5	Wood framed ceiling/floors/walls
Fiberglass	3.1	Wood framed ceiling/floors/walls
Rockwool	2.9	Wood framed ceiling/floors/walls
Perlite	2.7	Wood framed ceiling/floors
Expanded Polystyrene	3.6	Interior & Exterior (above grade) insulative sheathing
Blueboard	5.4	Interior & Exterior (above grade) insulative sheathing Interior & Exterior foundation Beneath concrete slabs/along slab edges
Expanded Polyurethane	6.25	Interior & Exterior insulative sheathing
Polyisocyanurate	7.2	Interior & Exterior insulative sheathing

How to Install Green / Non-Toxic Insulation

 

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