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Climate Zone 4 Insulation Guidelines
Understanding the correct R-values for your Long Island home. Department of Energy recommendations, building codes, and local climate considerations.
Long Island is located in Climate Zone 4 according to the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and Department of Energy (DOE) guidelines. This means we experience moderate heating requirements and mild cooling needs.
The R-value recommendations for Zone 4 are designed to provide optimal energy efficiency while maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures throughout the year.
| Building Component | Zone 4 Minimum | DOE Recommended | Typical Insulation | Thickness (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Attic/Ceiling | R-38 | R-49 to R-60 | Cellulose/Spray Foam | 12-16 |
| Exterior Walls | R-13 | R-13 to R-15 | Fiberglass batts | 3.5-5.5 |
| Floor over Unheated Space | R-25 | R-25 to R-30 | Fiberglass batts | 8-10 |
| Basement Walls | R-10 | R-10 to R-13 | Rigid foam panels | 1.5-2 |
| Crawl Space Walls | R-10 | R-10 to R-13 | Rigid foam panels | 1.5-2 |
| Rim/Band Joists | R-10 | R-13 to R-15 | Spray foam | 2-3 |
R-value measures thermal resistance - how well insulation prevents heat transfer. Higher R-values indicate better insulating performance.
4,001 - 5,000 HDD
Long Island experiences moderate heating needs with cold winters requiring substantial insulation.
5°F to 10°F winter lows
Cold winter temperatures and potential for ice storms make proper insulation crucial.
Mixed construction types
Long Island homes range from historic to modern, requiring tailored insulation approaches.
Code minimums provide basic compliance, but higher R-values deliver significantly better energy efficiency. The DOE recommends exceeding code minimums for optimal performance.
Better insulation maintains more consistent indoor temperatures, reduces drafts, and improves indoor air quality by minimizing moisture issues.
Homes with above-code insulation are more attractive to buyers and may qualify for higher energy efficiency ratings.
As energy costs rise and codes become stricter, better insulation protects your investment and makes future upgrades easier.
Find out exactly what R-values your Long Island home needs. Contact us for a free energy audit and personalized recommendations.