Insulation & Drywall
Proper insulation and drywall installation are critical for comfort, energy efficiency, and fire safety in Chicago's extreme climate. We stock fiberglass batt insulation, rigid foam board, and spray foam kits to meet every R-value requirement, from attic blankets to basement wall insulation. Our drywall inventory includes standard, moisture-resistant, and fire-rated panels in 4x8 and 4x12 sheets, along with all the joint compound, tape, and finishing accessories needed for a professional result. Whether you are finishing a basement, insulating an attic, or hanging drywall in a new build, we have the materials and the expertise to help.
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Fiberglass Batt Insulation
Fiberglass batt insulation is the most widely used insulation product in residential construction and remains the most cost-effective way to insulate wall cavities, attic floors, and floor assemblies. We stock fiberglass batts in all standard R-values: R-13 for 2x4 walls, R-19 for 2x6 walls and floors, R-30 for attics and cathedral ceilings, and R-38 for deep attic applications. Batts are available in both kraft-faced and unfaced configurations.
For standard wall framing, R-13 kraft-faced batts fit neatly into 2x4 stud cavities and provide a built-in vapor retarder through the kraft paper facing. R-19 batts are designed for 2x6 walls and deliver significantly better thermal performance, which is why many Chicago-area builders now frame exterior walls with 2x6 studs. For attic floors, R-38 or R-49 insulation is the current code standard. Achieving R-49 often requires layering unfaced batts over existing insulation or combining batts with blown-in insulation.
Proper installation technique is critical to fiberglass performance. Batts must fill the cavity completely without compression, gaps, or voids. Even small gaps around electrical boxes, pipes, and wiring significantly reduce the effective R-value of the installed insulation. Our team can advise on installation best practices and help you calculate the quantities needed for your project.
Rigid Foam Insulation
Rigid foam insulation boards are essential for Chicago building projects that require continuous insulation, high R-value in a limited space, or moisture resistance. We stock three types of rigid foam, each with distinct properties suited to different applications.
XPS (Extruded Polystyrene) is the familiar pink or blue foam board that is the standard choice for below-grade foundation insulation and under-slab applications. XPS has an R-value of approximately R-5 per inch, excellent compressive strength for below-slab use, and very low moisture absorption. Our 2-inch XPS boards in 4x8 sheets are the most popular item for basement wall insulation in Chicago homes.
Polyiso (Polyisocyanurate) delivers the highest R-value per inch of any rigid foam, approximately R-6.5 per inch, and features a foil face that acts as a radiant barrier and vapor retarder. Polyiso is the top choice for continuous exterior wall insulation installed over sheathing and under siding, and for commercial roof insulation. The 1-inch polyiso boards we stock are commonly used to add R-6.5 of continuous insulation to exterior walls, which satisfies the R-5 continuous insulation component of the Chicago energy code for wall assemblies.
EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) is the most affordable rigid foam option, with an R-value of approximately R-4 per inch. It is commonly used for insulated concrete form (ICF) construction, under-slab insulation, and exterior insulation finish systems (EIFS). EPS is available in a range of densities for different structural and insulation requirements.
Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam insulation provides the highest effective R-value and the best air-sealing performance of any insulation type. Closed-cell spray foam delivers approximately R-6.5 per inch while also serving as a vapor retarder and an air barrier, making it a three-in-one solution for walls, rim joists, and crawl spaces. We stock two-component spray foam kits from TOUCH 'N FOAM that are sized for DIY homeowner projects like rim joist insulation, gap sealing, and small cavity fill.
For larger spray foam applications such as full wall cavities, attic rooflines, or whole-basement insulation, professional installation with commercial-grade equipment is recommended. We can connect you with experienced spray foam contractors in the Chicago area. Spray foam is particularly effective for Chicago homes because its ability to seal air leaks is just as important as its R-value: air leakage accounts for a significant portion of heat loss in homes, especially older construction with balloon-framed walls and poorly sealed penetrations.
Mineral Wool Insulation
Mineral wool (also called rock wool or stone wool) insulation is gaining popularity among Chicago builders for its combination of thermal performance, fire resistance, and sound dampening. Brands like Rockwool (formerly Roxul) offer semi-rigid batts that fit into standard stud cavities and provide R-15 in a 2x4 wall and R-23 in a 2x6 wall, both higher than equivalent fiberglass products.
Mineral wool is non-combustible and maintains its form and insulating properties at temperatures up to 2,150 degrees Fahrenheit, making it an excellent choice for fire-rated wall assemblies and areas where fire resistance is a priority. Its density (approximately 8 pounds per cubic foot compared to about 1 pound for fiberglass) provides superior sound dampening, which is valuable for interior partition walls between bedrooms, home theaters, and shared walls in multi-unit Chicago buildings. Mineral wool batts are also hydrophobic, meaning they repel water rather than absorbing it, which prevents mold growth and maintains insulating performance even if the wall cavity is exposed to moisture.
Drywall & Finishing Products
We stock a complete drywall inventory for every Chicago construction application. Standard 1/2-inch drywall is the workhorse for interior walls and ceilings in residential construction. 5/8-inch Type X fire-rated drywall is required for garage ceilings, furnace rooms, and fire-separation assemblies per Chicago building code. Moisture-resistant (green board) drywall is recommended for bathrooms, kitchens, and basement walls where humidity levels are elevated.
All of our drywall panels are available in 4x8 sheets, and 4x12 sheets are available for walls and ceilings where longer panels reduce the number of butt joints and speed installation. We also carry lightweight drywall options that are easier to handle and hang overhead on ceilings.
For finishing drywall seams, we stock all-purpose ready-mix joint compound, setting-type compound for high-production professional work, paper and fiberglass mesh tape, metal corner bead, J-bead for unfinished edges, and a full selection of sanding supplies. All-purpose joint compound is the most versatile choice for DIY projects because it can be used for taping, filling, and final finishing coats. Setting-type compounds dry faster and harder, making them the professional's choice for high-volume work and for filling deep voids where shrinkage resistance is important.
Chicago Energy Code Requirements
Chicago enforces the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) for Climate Zone 5, which sets minimum insulation R-values and maximum air leakage rates for residential and commercial construction. Understanding these requirements before you buy insulation ensures your project passes inspection the first time and delivers the energy savings you expect.
The key residential R-value requirements for Chicago include: R-49 for ceilings and attic floors, R-20 or R-13+5ci (cavity plus continuous insulation) for above-grade exterior walls, R-15ci or R-19 between framing for basement walls, R-30 for floors over unconditioned spaces, and R-10ci for slab-on-grade foundations. The "ci" designation stands for continuous insulation, which means unbroken insulation across all structural members without thermal bridging.
In addition to R-value requirements, the current code emphasizes air sealing. All joints, seams, and penetrations in the building envelope must be sealed with caulk, foam, or gaskets to minimize air leakage. Blower door testing to verify air tightness is increasingly common on new construction and major renovation projects. Our insulation products and expertise help you meet both the insulation and air-sealing requirements of the current code.
Our Insulation & Drywall Products
R-13 Kraft-Faced Fiberglass Batt 15"
Standard wall cavity insulation for 2x4 framed walls, kraft paper facing serves as a vapor retarder.
R-19 Kraft-Faced Fiberglass Batt 23"
Floor and 2x6 wall cavity insulation providing enhanced thermal performance for Chicago's cold winters.
R-30 Unfaced Fiberglass Batt 23"
Attic insulation batt for standard attic applications, unfaced for use over existing insulation.
2" XPS Rigid Foam Board 4x8
Extruded polystyrene foam board for basement walls, under-slab insulation, and exterior foundation insulation.
1" Polyiso Rigid Foam Board 4x8
Foil-faced polyisocyanurate foam for continuous exterior insulation, offering the highest R-value per inch.
TOUCH 'N FOAM Spray Foam Kit
Two-component closed-cell spray foam kit for sealing gaps, rim joists, and small cavity insulation projects.
1/2" Drywall 4x8 Sheet
Standard gypsum wallboard for interior walls and ceilings in residential construction.
5/8" Type X Drywall 4x8 Sheet
Fire-rated gypsum board required for garage ceilings, furnace rooms, and fire-separation assemblies.
1/2" Moisture-Resistant Drywall 4x8
Green board drywall for use in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms where moisture exposure is common.
All-Purpose Joint Compound 4.5 Gal
Ready-mixed joint compound for embedding tape, filling fastener holes, and finishing drywall seams.
Paper Drywall Tape 250'
Standard paper joint tape for reinforcing drywall seams when used with joint compound.
Metal Corner Bead 8'
Galvanized steel corner bead for protecting and finishing outside drywall corners.
What We Offer
- ✓Fiberglass batt insulation in R-13, R-19, R-30, and R-38 values
- ✓Rigid foam insulation: XPS, EPS, and polyiso boards
- ✓Spray foam insulation kits for DIY applications
- ✓Standard 1/2" and 5/8" drywall in 4x8 and 4x12 sheets
- ✓Moisture-resistant (green board) drywall for bathrooms and kitchens
- ✓Type X fire-rated drywall for code-required assemblies
- ✓Joint compound in ready-mix and setting types
- ✓Paper and fiberglass mesh drywall tape
- ✓Corner bead, J-bead, and other drywall trim accessories
- ✓All insulation products meet Chicago energy code R-value requirements
Chicago R-Value Requirements by Assembly
Chicago enforces the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) for Climate Zone 5. Knowing the exact R-value requirement for each building assembly before you buy insulation ensures your project passes inspection the first time and delivers real energy savings. Here is the complete breakdown referenced from the current Chicago Energy Code.
| Building Assembly | Required R-Value | Typical Product Solution | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Attic / Ceiling | R-49 | 16" fiberglass batts or blown-in cellulose | Most impactful upgrade for existing homes; often layered over existing insulation |
| Exterior Walls (option A) | R-20 | R-20 high-density fiberglass in 2x6 wall, or R-21 mineral wool | Cavity-only approach; requires 2x6 framing |
| Exterior Walls (option B) | R-13 + R-5ci | R-13 batt in 2x4 cavity + 1" polyiso exterior | "ci" = continuous insulation; breaks thermal bridging at studs |
| Floors Over Unconditioned Space | R-30 | R-30 fiberglass batts between joists | E.g., floors over garages, vented crawl spaces |
| Basement Walls | R-15ci or R-19 | 2" XPS against foundation (R-10) + framed wall with R-13 batt, or R-19 batts in 2x6 framed wall | Moisture management critical; rigid foam provides vapor control |
| Slab-on-Grade Edge | R-10ci (2 ft depth) | 2" XPS along slab perimeter | Extends from top of slab to 24" below grade |
Code Reference: These values are from the IECC Table R402.1.2 for Climate Zone 5. The Chicago Department of Buildings enforces these requirements for new construction and additions. Major renovations that alter the building envelope may also trigger compliance. Always confirm current requirements with your building inspector.
Insulation Type Comparison
Each insulation type has distinct properties that make it better suited for certain applications. This side-by-side comparison covers the key performance metrics professionals use to select the right insulation for each part of a Chicago home.
| Type | R-Value per Inch | Relative Cost | Fire Rating | Moisture Behavior | Best Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fiberglass Batts | R-3.2 to R-3.8 | $ | Non-combustible | Absorbs water; loses R-value when wet | Wall cavities, attic floors |
| Blown-In Cellulose | R-3.2 to R-3.7 | $ | Class I (treated with borate) | Can absorb and distribute moisture; dries slowly | Attic floors, retrofit wall cavities |
| Mineral Wool (Rockwool) | R-3.8 to R-4.2 | $$ | Non-combustible (2,150°F) | Hydrophobic; repels water | Fire-rated walls, soundproofing, exterior continuous |
| XPS Rigid Foam | R-5.0 | $$ | Combustible (must be covered with drywall) | Low absorption; excellent below-grade | Basement walls, below slab, exterior foundation |
| EPS Rigid Foam | R-3.8 to R-4.4 | $ | Combustible (must be covered) | Moderate absorption; vapor-permeable | ICF, under-slab, EIFS |
| Polyiso Rigid Foam | R-6.5 (at 75°F) | $$$ | Foil-faced has higher fire resistance | Foil face acts as vapor retarder | Exterior continuous insulation, above-grade walls |
| Open-Cell Spray Foam | R-3.5 to R-3.8 | $$$ | Ignition barrier required | Absorbs water; vapor-permeable | Interior walls, attic rooflines (unvented) |
| Closed-Cell Spray Foam | R-6.5 to R-7.0 | $$$$ | Class II vapor retarder at 1.5" | Impermeable; air and vapor barrier in one | Rim joists, crawl spaces, high-performance walls |
Polyiso Cold Weather Note: Polyiso R-value drops in very cold temperatures (below about 15°F it may perform closer to R-5.0 per inch). For Chicago foundation and below-grade applications where the insulation will be exposed to cold, XPS is generally the better choice. Reserve polyiso for above-grade wall applications where it delivers its full rated R-value most of the heating season.
Drywall Types and When to Use Each
Not all drywall is the same. Different formulations are engineered for specific environments and performance requirements. Using the wrong type can lead to code violations, moisture problems, or inadequate fire protection. Here is a guide to the drywall types we stock and where each one belongs in a Chicago home.
Standard (White Board)
Thickness: 1/2"
The standard drywall for interior walls in residential construction. Suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, hallways, and other dry interior spaces. Not appropriate for wet areas, fire-rated assemblies, or ceiling applications where 5/8" is specified.
Moisture-Resistant (Green Board)
Thickness: 1/2" or 5/8"
Green-faced drywall with a water-resistant core and facing. Use in bathrooms (wall areas away from shower/tub), kitchens, laundry rooms, and basement walls. Not a tile backer and not waterproof — use cement board behind tile in wet areas.
Fire-Rated Type X
Thickness: 5/8"
Contains glass fibers and other additives that provide 1-hour fire resistance per layer. Required by Chicago code for garage ceilings, garage-to-house separation walls, furnace rooms, and fire-rated assemblies in multi-family construction. Also recommended for ceilings due to its extra rigidity.
Mold-Resistant (Purple Board)
Thickness: 1/2" or 5/8"
Fiberglass mat facing instead of paper eliminates the organic food source for mold. Outperforms green board in high-humidity environments. Ideal for Chicago basements where elevated humidity is a year-round concern. Available in standard and Type X fire-rated versions.
Soundproof (QuietRock)
Thickness: 5/8"
Constrained-layer damping technology absorbs sound vibration. A single layer achieves STC ratings comparable to double-layer standard drywall. Use between bedrooms, home offices, home theaters, and shared walls in Chicago two-flats and condos.
Abuse-Resistant / High-Impact
Thickness: 1/2" or 5/8"
Reinforced core and dense surface resist dents, punctures, and surface abrasion. Ideal for garages, hallways, stairwells, and rental property units where walls take more physical abuse. Some products combine abuse resistance with fire and moisture resistance for multi-purpose applications.
Thickness Guide: Use 1/2" drywall for standard interior walls. Use 5/8" for ceilings (reduces sag between joists), all fire-rated assemblies (Type X), and anywhere you want improved sound isolation or impact resistance. For 24" on-center ceiling framing, 5/8" drywall is required to prevent visible sag between joists.
Basement Insulation in Chicago
Chicago basements are notoriously cold, damp, and uncomfortable. The combination of below-grade concrete walls (which conduct heat readily), high water tables, and clay-heavy soils that hold moisture against the foundation creates a challenging environment for insulation. But a properly insulated and moisture-managed basement can become a comfortable, energy-efficient living space. Here are the three most effective approaches.
Approach 1: Rigid Foam Against Foundation (Recommended)
Apply 2-inch XPS rigid foam (R-10) directly against the concrete foundation wall using foam-compatible adhesive. Tape all seams with foil tape to create a continuous vapor barrier. Frame a 2x4 stud wall in front of the foam (with a 1-inch air gap or tight against the foam), and fill the stud cavities with R-13 unfaced fiberglass batts. This assembly provides R-23 total and keeps the warm dew point inside the foam layer, preventing condensation on the cold concrete.
Total R-Value: ~R-23 | Moisture Control: Excellent | Code Compliant: Yes
Approach 2: Closed-Cell Spray Foam
Apply 2–3 inches of closed-cell spray foam directly to the concrete foundation wall. This provides R-13 to R-19.5 of insulation while simultaneously creating an air barrier, vapor barrier, and moisture barrier in a single application. No additional vapor retarder is needed. Frame a stud wall in front for drywall attachment. This is the most effective method but the highest cost.
Total R-Value: R-13 to R-19.5 | Moisture Control: Excellent | Code Compliant: Yes
Approach 3: Framed Wall with Batts Only
Frame a 2x6 stud wall 1 inch away from the foundation wall and insulate with R-19 faced fiberglass batts with the kraft facing toward the room. This is the most affordable approach but has higher moisture risk because warm, moist interior air can reach the cold concrete wall through gaps in the batts, potentially causing condensation and mold. A separate 6-mil polyethylene vapor barrier on the warm side is strongly recommended with this method.
Total R-Value: ~R-19 | Moisture Control: Moderate (requires vapor barrier) | Code Compliant: Yes
Moisture First: Before insulating any Chicago basement, address any active water infiltration. Insulation will not solve a wet basement — it will trap moisture and create mold problems. Repair foundation cracks, ensure gutters discharge away from the foundation, and consider interior or exterior waterproofing if the basement has a history of water issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About Insulation & Drywall
Insulate Your Chicago Home Right
Visit our yard or contact us online for expert help selecting the right insulation R-values and drywall types for your project. We stock all products needed to meet Chicago energy code requirements.