Saving Energy: Insulating Your Home

Buying Guides – Traditional Insulation Materials

The right insulation material for your home depends on where it will be used and what type you already have. Your contractor or retailer can help you choose the best option for your needs.

Synthetic insulation, usually polystyrene or polyurethane foam, is commonly used in rigid boards for insulating basements, cathedral ceilings or sidewalls.

It's also manufactured as a spray-on expanding foam (the same synthetic material found in small aerosol cans); when applied, it "poofs" up two to four times its original size, filling even the smallest nooks and crannies.

Learn more about: Understanding R-value

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Are you an Alliant Energy customer?

If you’re an Alliant Energy heating customer in Iowa or Minnesota, you can earn cash back when you upgrade your attic insulation.

Looking for an energy-smart insulation contractor or retailer?

Try Alliant Energy’s online Dealer Locator to find experts in your area.

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Brochures and fact sheets:

PowerHouse: Insulating Your Home
By Alliant Energy [PDF format]

Attic Insulation Fact Sheet
By the U.S. Department of Energy [PDF format]

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Learn more:

Insulation
Fact sheet from the U.S. Department of Energy

Simply Insulate
Advice from the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association

Insulation FAQs
Expert answers from the National Insulation Association