Faced vs Unfaced Insulation - A Side-By-Side Comparison

When it comes to insulation, one of the key decisions is whether to use faced or unfaced batts or rolls. But what exactly is the difference, and when should you choose one over the other? This in-depth guide will compare faced and unfaced insulation side-by-side, so you can make an informed decision for your project.

We'll look at the vapor barrier and moisture protection differences, installation locations, costs, soundproofing capabilities, and other key factors. Read on to finally understand the great faced vs unfaced debate!

What is Faced Insulation?

Faced insulation refers to batts or rolls that have a layer of kraft paper, foil, or other material on one side. This layer acts as a vapor barrier to resist airflow and the passage of moisture.

The main purpose of the facing is to provide a continuous vapor barrier across the entire surface of the insulation. This prevents warm, humid interior air from reaching cold surfaces, where it could condense and cause moisture issues.

Common facing materials include:

• Kraft paper
• Aluminum foil
• Vinyl
• Polyethylene film

Faced insulation is installed with the facing oriented towards the "warm in winter" side of the insulation. This is usually the interior side in exterior walls. The vapor barrier helps block convection currents through the insulation.

Due to its moisture protection, faced insulation is recommended for:

• Exterior walls
• Basements
• Crawlspaces

Anywhere humidity or condensation is a concern.

Benefits of Faced Insulation

• Integrated vapor barrier resists moisture
• Creates a continuous air seal
• Prevents condensation issues
• Blocks humidity from entering walls or attic

Potential Drawbacks

• More expensive than unfaced
• Facing can tear during installation
• Facing may require more maintenance
• Combustible - fire safety concerns

What is Unfaced Insulation?

Unfaced insulation lacks any sort of integrated facing material. You'll immediately notice the exposed fibers or foam.

Without a vapor barrier, unfaced insulation depends on a tight fit against framing members to hold it in place through friction. It conforms around wires, plumbing, and other obstructions.

While unfaced insulation doesn't have a built-in vapor barrier, you can add a separate one. However, this requires carefully sealing all seams to create a continuous air block.

Unfaced insulation is well suited for:

• Attics
• Interior wall cavities
• Adding extra insulation over existing materials

Anywhere air sealing is not a major concern.

Benefits of Unfaced Insulation

• Lower cost than faced
• Easier retrofitting in existing spaces
• Can reduce air gaps around fixtures
• Preferred for soundproofing

Potential Drawbacks

• No built-in vapor barrier
• Can be compressed over time
• May allow convection currents
• Provides no protection against moisture

Key Differences Between Faced and Unfaced Insulation

Now that we've looked at faced and unfaced insulation separately, let's directly compare some of the key differences.

Vapor Barrier

The main distinction is that faced insulation has an integrated vapor barrier, while unfaced does not. For faced insulation, this vapor barrier is continuous across the entire surface.

With unfaced insulation, you'll need to install a separate polyethylene or foil vapor barrier. Properly sealing this requires meticulous attention to detail at all seams and penetrations.

Moisture Protection

By providing an air seal, the facing on faced insulation helps protect against condensation and humidity. Unfaced insulation provides no inherent moisture protection.

In basements, crawlspaces and other damp areas, faced insulation is necessary to prevent moisture issues.

Air Seal

The facing material on faced insulation can act as an air barrier. Unfaced insulation generally won't create a good air seal on its own.

An air seal helps reduce convection currents through the insulation, preserving its R-value. It also prevents humid interior air from reaching exterior sheathing.

Installation Location

Due to its vapor barrier, faced insulation is ideal for exterior walls, basement walls, crawlspaces, and other areas prone to condensation.

Unfaced insulation works well for interior wall cavities, attics, and adding extra insulation to existing materials. Here, a vapor barrier is less crucial.

R-Value

Interestingly, faced vs unfaced insulation with the same thickness and material won't have a noticeable difference in R-value. The thin facing material has minimal impact on insulating performance.

So faced and unfaced fiberglass batts with an R-13 rating will resist heat transfer equally well.

Cost

Due to the additional facing material, faced insulation typically costs 20-50% more than comparable unfaced insulation. This extra cost is due to material, manufacturing, and labor.

However, faced insulation can pay for itself over time through improved energy efficiency and moisture protection.

Soundproofing

For soundproofing interior walls, unfaced insulation is preferred. Without a facing material, there is less potential for noise vibration through the insulation.

Faced insulation like fiberglass batts are not well-suited for sound insulation between rooms.

Durability

The facing material protects insulation fibers or foam. This means faced insulation holds up better over years of heat and cold cycles.

Unfaced insulation may become compressed over time, reducing its effectiveness. The kraft paper or foil facing improves long-term durability.

Aesthetics

For exterior finished walls or exposed applications, the facing material of faced insulation will be visible. This can impact the overall aesthetics and finish of the wall surface.

Unfaced insulation provides a cleaner look in applications where the insulation is exposed.

When to Choose Faced Insulation

Now that we've compared the key characteristics, in which situations should you choose faced batt or roll insulation?

• High humidity climates or areas prone to condensation
• Basements, crawlspaces and other below-grade areas
• Exterior walls for maximum energy efficiency
• New construction or major renovations
• When noise insulation is not a priority
• Greater long-term durability is desired

Essentially, when vapor protection and an air seal are crucial, faced insulation is the way to go.

Climate Considerations

In damp, humid climates faced insulation is highly recommended. The vapor barrier helps prevent moisture issues in these conditions.

In hot, dry climates, the need for a vapor barrier is less crucial. Here, unfaced insulation may suffice for many applications.

Structure Type

For frame walls with cavities between studs, faced fiberglass batts provide a nice fit with good vapor protection. The kraft or foil facing suits typical wood frame construction.

In masonry walls like concrete block, faced rigid foam boards are easy to install. The foam gives great R-value while the facing blocks moisture.

When to Choose Unfaced Insulation

What about applications where unfaced insulation makes more sense? Consider unfaced insulation for:

• Attics and interior wall retrofits
• When budget is a concern
• Soundproofing between rooms
• Around plumbing, wires, and ductwork
• Adding insulation over existing materials
• Exposed applications where appearance matters

Anywhere that vapor protection is not a priority, unfaced delivers value.

Budget Friendly

Due to the lower cost, unfaced insulation is great when budget is a top concern. You can achieve good R-values for less.

Just be sure to also install separate vapor barrier sheeting where needed.

Retrofitting Insulation

Trying to stuff faced batts into existing wall cavities can prove challenging. Unfaced rolls are easier for retrofitting projects.

The lack of facing allows unfaced insulation to fit neatly around wiring, plumbing, ducts, and existing insulation.

Installation and Maintenance Factors

There are some key differences to consider when installing faced vs unfaced insulation.

Ease of Installation

The integrated facing provides a flat, smooth surface that makes faced insulation quicker to install. The facing adheres nicely to studs and joists.

On the other hand, unfaced insulation requires meticulous air sealing to prevent gaps. It can be more tedious fitting unfaced insulation around fixtures and obstructions.

Potential for Tears

While the facing on faced insulation facilitates installation, it's also prone to rips and tears. A ruptured vapor barrier severely compromises the insulation's moisture resistance.

Care must be taken when cutting and fitting faced insulation to avoid damage. Unfaced insulation doesn't have this issue.

Mold Concerns

If condensation occurs on the interior side of the facing, there is potential for mold growth on faced insulation.

It's important to allow drying to the interior and take steps to prevent condensation. Mold is less of a concern with unfaced insulation in most areas.

Fire Safety

Faced insulation is more combustible than unfaced products. The paper facing can serve as a fire starter and fuel source.

It's vital to isolate faced batts from potential ignition sources. Fire blocks between floors should be used.

Sustainability Factors

There are also some environmental and health factors to be aware of.

Facing Materials

Fiberglass faced with kraft paper uses less recycled content and is less sustainable than plain unfaced fiberglass insulation.

However, faced polyisocyanurate foam boards contain recycled materials. So material choices factor into the sustainability.

VOC Off-Gassing

There is potential for the facing to off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which can impact indoor air quality.

Using unfaced insulation and an alternative vapor barrier reduces this concern.

Moisture Resistance

On the other hand, by preventing condensation issues, faced insulation improves moisture resistance. This helps indoor air quality in damp climates.

Safety

When installing faced insulation, precautions should be taken to minimize exposure to facing particles and fibers.

A N95 respirator mask, gloves, and protective clothing are recommended when handling faced batts.

To summarize the key differences:

• Faced insulation has an integrated vapor barrier, unfaced does not.
• Faced batts provide superior moisture resistance and air sealing.
• Unfaced insulation is more budget friendly.
• Faced insulation suits exterior walls and below-grade applications.
• Unfaced is easier for retrofitting projects.
• For soundproofing, unfaced products are better.
• Faced insulation costs more upfront but offers long-term energy savings.

Ultimately, selecting between faced vs unfaced insulation depends on your specific project needs and the construction details.

In spaces where moisture and air intrusion are concerns, vapor-barrier faced insulation is recommended. For interior retrofits and attics, unfaced will suffice in many climates.

Carefully compare the pros and cons and make an informed decision based on your climate, budget, and project goals. With this side-by-side guide, you now have the key facts to choose the right insulation for your next project.