What happens to the efficiency of an insulation material with a higher R-value?

A higher R-value in insulation materials signifies better thermal resistance, which directly correlates with improved efficiency in insulating properties. This means that materials with a higher R-value can effectively resist the flow of heat—whether that's retaining heat in a building during the winter or keeping it out during the summer.

Consequently, as the R-value increases, the efficiency of the insulation material improves because it can minimize energy loss, leading to reduced heating and cooling costs. The engineering concept here is straightforward: the greater the thermal resistance, the less energy is required to maintain a comfortable indoor climate. Therefore, choosing insulation with a higher R-value is often a key strategy in energy efficiency and sustainability in building projects.