What words or terms should I look for in contracts or receipts for insulation?

Once you have chosen an insulation contractor, make sure the contract includes the job specification, cost, method of payment, and warranty information provided by the insulation material manufacturer. Make sure that the contract lists the type of insulation to be used and where it will be used. Make sure that each type of insulation is listed by R-value.

Avoid contracts with vague language such as R-values with the terms "plus or minus"; "+ or -"; "average"; or "nominal."

Beware of any contract or verbal offering that quotes the job in terms of thickness only (e.g. "10 inches of insulation"). Remember, it is the R-value -- not the thickness -- that tells how well a material insulates. When buying insulation, be sure not to get sidetracked by the thickness of the material.