Vermiculite (Loose Fill) in Zone 7 (Very Cold)
Vermiculite (Loose Fill) provides R-2.1 per inch of thickness at a material cost of $0.10 per square foot per R-value point. In Climate Zone 7 (Very Cold), with 10,000 HDD and 300 CDD, see the thickness and cost required for each building component below.
Specifications
Vermiculite (Loose Fill) Requirements by Component in Zone 7
The table below shows the DOE recommended R-value, required thickness of Vermiculite (Loose Fill), material cost per square foot, and total material cost per 1,000 square feet for each building component in Climate Zone 7. Components where Vermiculite (Loose Fill) is specifically recommended are highlighted. Components where insulation is not required show "N/R" (not required).
| Component | Required R | Thickness | $/SqFt | $/1000 SqFt | Fits Cavity | Rec. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Attic | R-60 | 28.6" | $6.00 | $6,000 | No | Yes |
| Wall Cavity | R-13 | 6.2" | $1.30 | $1,300 | No | - |
| Wall Continuous (Exterior) | R-10 | 4.8" | $1.00 | $1,000 | No | - |
| Floor (Over Unconditioned Space) | R-25 | 11.9" | $2.50 | $2,500 | No | - |
| Basement Wall | R-15 | 7.1" | $1.50 | $1,500 | No | - |
| Crawlspace | R-10 | 4.8" | $1.00 | $1,000 | No | - |
| Cathedral Ceiling | R-49 | 23.3" | $4.90 | $4,900 | No | - |
| Garage Ceiling (Below Living Space) | R-38 | 18.1" | $3.80 | $3,800 | No | - |
Vermiculite (Loose Fill) in Zone 7 — Guidance
Vermiculite (Loose Fill) at R-2.1 per inch is a reliable and proven insulation material suitable for a range of applications. In Climate Zone 7 (Very Cold), the high R-value requirements mean that the choice of insulation type significantly affects both the required thickness and the total project cost. This product is suitable for DIY installation, which can reduce total project costs by 30 to 50 percent compared to professional installation. Ensure that Vermiculite (Loose Fill) is installed in a dry location protected from direct moisture exposure. For the specific R-value requirements in Zone 7, review the component comparison table above to see the thickness and cost for each building component.
States in Zone 7
These states include areas within Climate Zone 7 where the Vermiculite (Loose Fill) requirements shown above apply. Click any state for its complete insulation recommendations.