I'm planning to tear down some walls and remove the asbestos insulation in my attic. Given that it's an old home, I'm pretty sure there's no insulation at all once I start ripping things out. I have a few questions: 1. How do I find out what R-value is up to code for my area? I've been looking, but most of the building codes I find are 3-5 years old. How frequently do these codes get updated? 2. I'm considering using Rockwool Safe n' Sound for insulation, thinking it might provide both soundproofing and insulation at the same time since I'm saving a lot by doing this myself. But I see it doesn't have an R-value listed, so I'm unsure. 3. Is it a bad idea to use Safe n' Sound in the attic? 4. Once I actually add insulation and put up new walls, I don't think I'll need a permit, right? Who's really going to check if my insulation meets code anyway? Regardless, I'd like to comply with codes as much as I can.
2 Answers
To find out the R-value requirements for your area, start by checking the IECC Climate Zone map. Once you know your zone, refer to IRC Section N1102, which will link your zone to the appropriate wall and ceiling R-values. Since most states in the U.S. follow the IRC or a modified version, searching for your state along with 'IRC' should lead to helpful links. Just so you know, the codes did change from 2018 to 2021. As for using Rockwool Safe'nSound, that's mainly for soundproofing, which is why it doesn't have a listed R-value. For insulation, you might want to look at their ComfortBatt line instead. Other brands like Johns Manville and CertainTeed also offer good products typically found in big box stores. Regarding permits, usually, you need one if you're opening up walls or remodeling significantly, so it's wise to check that out.
Just a heads up, Safe n' Sound is designed primarily for soundproofing rather than providing insulation. If you're aiming for effective insulation with Rockwool, you should really opt for their ComfortBatt products, which do have the R-values listed on their website. It's a common misconception that you can have both insulation and soundproofing from the same product, but often you need to choose one or the other depending on your main focus.