 I cannot discuss the merits or ROI of insulation. I can tell you for my new house in FL I did the following: On the floors I had them place caulk on concrete, then blue sill plate foam runner, sill plate then expanding foam around sill plate. ALL exterior and interior penetrations (windows, outlets, door jambs etc.) were filled with expanding foam. ALL walls were insulated with 1/2" R8 foam board then R-19 bats. Exterior covered with "tyvek" type material, windows installed with silicone sealant as well. Since two-story also insulated between floors using R-30 bats for insulation and sound proofing. Attic is R-38 dry blown-in insulation covered with R-25 sealed bats. All windows are also insulated. For ventilation I open a window and house "breaths" thru attic. Also installed thermostatically controlled attic fans with manual ON/OFF switch located in kitchen. Overkill to be sure but one day I want to retire and have minimal operating costs. Heat is supplied via LP fireplace and one wood burner. SEER 16 American Std. Heatpumps for cooling. Preparations in place for geo-thermal (land appropriation, inspections) but need to save some more $$. Once the "Carthage" is complete I can begin rebuilding tractor fund and get back to playing in the dirt!!!
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