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In insulation, the foremost factors are R-value (the capacity of an insulator to resist heat flow) and cost (computed per square foot). The two rise together, so consider your budget and how long you plan to stay in your new house, says Denny Tienter, Manager of Citywide Insulation Inc.

EXTERIOR WALL INSULATION: Choices include R-19 or R-21 fiberglass batt or R-23 net-and-blow. Fiberglass batting comes pre-made, in sheets or rolls. In the net-and-blow process, netting is installed and insulation blown and packed in behind the net. R-19 batt costs 24 cents less a square foot than R-21 and 34 cents less than R-23 net-and-blow.

ATTIC INSULATION (BLOWN-IN): R-38, the minimum allowed by the building code, runs seven cents below the R-45. "The maximum as far as payback goes is R- 45," Tienter says. "Everything depends on the size of the house."

Copyright 2003 Rochester Area Builders, Inc. No part of the Builder's Corner articles may be reproduced or printed without written permission from Rochester Area Builders. 108 Elton Hills Lane NW, Rochester, MN 55901. Phone 507-282-7698.\