Certified Energy Auditor Practice Exam

What is a key requirement for effective Batt insulation?

1. It must be installed loosely

2. It must fit snugly without compression or gaps

3. It must be installed without any cutting

4. It can have some gaps for airflow

The correct answer is: It must fit snugly without compression or gaps

For effective batt insulation, it is essential that it fits snugly without compression or gaps. Proper installation is critical for achieving optimal thermal performance. When insulation is installed snugly, it effectively fills the spaces between framing members, minimizing the potential for thermal bridging, where heat can transfer through the framing materials instead of being properly insulated. If insulation is compressed, its ability to resist heat flow is reduced, which leads to a decline in energy efficiency. Similarly, if there are gaps present, they allow air movement, which can lead to heat loss or gain, negatively impacting the energy efficiency of a building. This snug fit maximizes the R-value (the measure of thermal resistance) of the insulation, ensuring that the energy efficiency goals of the structure are met and that the indoor environment remains comfortable. Proper installation without gaps or compression essentially creates a continuous barrier against heat transfer, which is the primary purpose of insulation.