What does the "R" factor measure?

The "R" factor, commonly known as the R-value, measures the resistance to heat transfer through a building material or insulation. It quantifies the effectiveness of insulation in resisting heat flow; the higher the R-value, the better the material insulates.

In the context of insulation, this means that materials with a high R-value are particularly effective at keeping heat inside during colder months and preventing it from entering during warmer months. This is crucial for energy efficiency in buildings, as it affects heating and cooling costs, comfort levels, and energy consumption overall.

Understanding the R-value is essential for selecting appropriate insulation materials for specific applications in construction and retrofitting buildings to enhance thermal comfort and energy savings.