Question

Is a thermal barrier required in an attic?

1) Yes, it helps to improve energy efficiency
2) No, it is not necessary
3) It depends on the climate and insulation used
4) Cannot be determined from the given information

Answer 1

A thermal barrier in an attic can substantially improve energy efficiency and is beneficial depending on climate and existing insulation. Adding extra insulation helps to reduce heating costs.

Step-by-step explanation:

The necessity of a thermal barrier in an attic fundamentally depends on the climate and the insulation used. However, adding extra insulation in the attic is a widely recognized method to improve energy efficiency by reducing heating and cooling costs. For a house with pre-existing fiberglass insulation, an additional 8.0 cm layer of fiberglass can significantly decrease the heating cost. This energy efficiency improvement can be calculated by considering the dimensions of the house, the thermal properties of the insulation, and other factors such as air infiltration and heat loss through windows and doors.

For example, if a house already has insulation in the attic and exterior surfaces, adding more insulation can further reduce energy loss. The additional insulation creates a thicker thermal barrier, reducing the amount of heat that can pass through it. This can lead to a drop in heating costs by a certain percentage, depending on factors such as the climate and the type and thickness of the insulation used.