Batt and Blanket insulation is typically made from mineral fibers and are available in standard widths corresponding to the spacing of wall studs and attic or floor joists. These rolls must be hand trimmed and cut to fit spaces as well as accommodate electrical wiring and boxes, plumbing penetrations, and other obstructions. While batts and blankets are the most commonly used type of insulation, if poorly installed, the effective R-value of drops dramatically. Usually this is due to compression, or voids around wiring or plumbing.

Rigid foam is pressed or extruded into board like foams and is typically faced with a reflective surface that reduces heat flow when adjacent to an air space. These materials provide both thermal and acoustic insulation and have few heat loss paths. Rigid foam board insulation is more costly than many insulation products but is less prone to builder error in installation.

Blow-in insulation applications include cellulose, fiberglass and pellets that are blown into building cavities or attics using special pneumatic equipment. The R-value of a blow-in application is dependent on the quality and density of the material used. Blow-in materials can also provide additional resistance to air filtration if the insulation is sufficiently dense.