What does R-Value measure in insulation?

R-Value measures the resistance to heat transfer in insulation materials. This value quantifies how well a specific material can prevent heat from flowing through it, making it a crucial metric in evaluating and selecting insulation for thermal efficiency in buildings. A higher R-Value indicates better insulating properties, thereby reducing energy costs associated with heating and cooling.

When considering insulation, it is essential to focus on its ability to insulate against heat loss or gain. This aspect ultimately impacts the overall comfort of living spaces and the efficiency of HVAC systems. While moisture resistance, sound transfer, and fire hazard resistance are important characteristics of insulation materials, they are measured by different ratings and do not pertain directly to the R-Value, which is specifically about thermal resistance.