What does R-13 mean for my walls?

R-13 is the common rating for 2x4 wall cavities. It fits a nominal 3.5-inch stud bay; 2x6 walls need a thicker batt such as R-19 or R-21.

Does the kraft facing need to face a certain way?

The facing is a vapor retarder and generally goes toward the heated side of the wall in cold climates. Check local code, since warm and humid climates often call for a different placement or a different product.

Is it really formaldehyde free?

Knauf says the ECOSE binder is plant-based and UL Environment has validated the product as formaldehyde free. It also states the rolls contain no Red List chemicals.

Can I leave the kraft facing exposed?

No. Most codes require a fire barrier such as drywall over foam or kraft-faced insulation in occupied spaces. Confirm with your local building department.

How is it different from unfaced batts?

The kraft facing adds a vapor retarder and a tear-resistant surface marked in 1-foot increments. Unfaced batts are cheaper and are used where a separate vapor retarder is installed.

What do I need to install it?

Gloves, eye protection and a dust mask, plus a utility knife or insulation saw. The facing can be stapled to studs, and the 1-foot markings help you cut clean widths.

Knauf Performance+ R-13 Kraft-Faced Fiberglass Price History: $28.50

Q: Where is the Knauf Performance+ R-13 Kraft-Faced Fiberglass Insulation Roll cheapest?

At Woodson Lumber, for $28.50, 22% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.

Q: Where can I buy the Knauf Performance+ R-13 Kraft-Faced Fiberglass Insulation Roll?

12 stores we checked sell it, including Arbor, Woodson Lumber, Family Hardware, Do it Best, Carr Hardware.

From Menards

Kraft paper facing acts as a vapor retarder for moisture control; check local code requirements
Made from corn, sand, and recycled glass with no added dyes
Softer to the touch and easy to cut, split, and install
Bonded with plant-based ECOSE Technology; validated by UL Environment as formaldehyde free and contains no Red List chemicals
Durable kraft facing resists tears and is marked in 1-foot increments to streamline installation
Resilient fibers recover quickly out of the package for a snug fit

Materials: Fiberglass with a high degree of post-consumer recycled content; kraft paper facing
Fit: R-13, 3-1/2 in x 15 in x 32 ft roll; for 2x4 wall and basement insulation
Returns: Regular Return policy applies
Shipping: Delivery available; not available for purchase online — visit a Menards store for information and to purchase

About the Knauf Performance+ R-13 Kraft-Faced Fiberglass Insulation Roll

Knauf Performance+ R-13 is a kraft-faced fiberglass insulation roll with an R-13 rating. It is bonded with plant-based ECOSE Technology, and it is validated by UL Environment as formaldehyde free. It contains no Red List chemicals.

The fiberglass is made from corn, sand, and recycled glass, with a high degree of post-consumer recycled content. No dyes are added. The insulation is soft to the touch and easy to cut, split, and install, with low dust.

The kraft paper facing resists tears and is marked in 1-foot increments to guide installation. It acts as a vapor retarder for moisture control, so check local code requirements. The fibers recover quickly out of the package for a snug fit. The roll is made for 2x4 wall and basement insulation.

R-value: R-13
Type: Blanket
Dimensions: 3-1/2 in x 15 in x 32 ft roll
Material: Fiberglass with post-consumer recycled content; kraft paper facing
Facing: Kraft paper, vapor retarder, marked in 1-foot increments
Binder: Plant-based ECOSE Technology
Certification: UL Environment validated formaldehyde free; no Red List chemicals
Use: 2x4 walls and basements