Know your climate zone and maximise benefits of insulation
A climate zone is a category grouping of different areas into zones, by factors such as temperature ranges, humidity and rainfall. These and other climatic factors help to determine the type of insulation required (e.g. bulk insulation or reflective insulation) and which R-Value is required to maximise efficiency of the insulation and value for money for the home owner.
In hot climates, reflective foil insulation is often used, and in cold climates, bulk insulation is considered essential. Very often however, both types can be used to good effect, providing year round thermal protection.
New Zealand is divided broadly into 12 Climate Zones, ranging from the warm subtropical region to the far north, to the more temperate, cool climate in the far south. Generally speaking, houses in extreme climates require a higher R-Value, while houses in milder climates require less. However the climate zone is only one of several factors to consider when deciding what insulation to use in your home insulation project. Other factors include the type and layout of the building, which building materials have been used, and shading from any nearby trees or buildings.