Insulation in New Construction Homes on Ono Island: What I’m Seeing on Site Tours
By Meredith Amon, Licensed in Alabama and Florida
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Lately, I’ve been touring a number of new construction homes with clients on Ono Island and in Orange Beach, Alabama, and one consistent topic that comes up is how these homes are insulated. As interest in energy efficiency and storm resilience grows, insulation is no longer an afterthought—it’s a key part of how high-end coastal homes are built.
Here are the insulation trends and techniques I’ve observed on recent job site visits.
Spray Foam in the Roof Deck
Many of the homes under construction feature closed-cell spray foam insulation applied directly to the underside of the roof decking. This method seals the attic space and creates what’s known as a conditioned attic.
This approach helps:
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Keep attic temperatures more stable year-round
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Reduce stress on HVAC systems
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Improve the overall energy efficiency of the home
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Minimize air leakage and moisture intrusion
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Add rigidity to the roof structure
Walking through these attics during the warmer months, there’s a noticeable difference—the space feels much cooler and quieter compared to traditional vented attics.
Batt Insulation in the Walls
In both exterior and interior walls, fiberglass batt insulation is commonly used—typically in R-13 to R-19 ratings depending on the wall structure. For rooms that require noise control—like bedrooms near gathering areas or media rooms—I’ve noticed some homes include sound-deadening insulation between interior walls.
Conditioned Attics for Mechanical Performance
With spray foam in the roofline, attics become semi-conditioned spaces, meaning HVAC ductwork and equipment can operate more efficiently in a temperature-stable environment. This is especially important in our Gulf Coast climate where attic temperatures can soar in summer months.
Floor Insulation in Elevated Homes
In homes built on pilings or with raised foundations, I’ve seen batt insulation installed between the floor joists. This additional layer provides insulation against air movement from beneath the home and helps maintain a consistent interior temperature.
Conditioned Garages
Another trend I’ve been seeing is the inclusion of conditioned garages in new construction. These garages are fully insulated and often tied into the home’s HVAC system or equipped with split units.
Advantages include:
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Added comfort when using garage space for storage, workshops, or fitness
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Climate control for temperature-sensitive equipment
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Reduced humidity and corrosion risk for tools and vehicles
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Higher energy efficiency for rooms located above or adjacent to the garage
Conditioned garages also allow for more functional square footage—perfect for today's evolving lifestyle needs.
The Importance of a Complete Envelope
Each of these insulation methods contributes to what builders refer to as the building envelope—the shell that protects the home from heat, moisture, and wind intrusion. When combined with impact-rated windows, smart HVAC systems, and a fortified roof, insulation plays a central role in how well a home performs on Ono Island.
What I Recommend Buyers Consider
When walking through new construction homes or designing a build, I always encourage my clients to ask key questions about insulation. Some important considerations include:
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Is spray foam used in the roofline?
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Are the attics sealed and conditioned?
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What’s the R-value in the walls and floors?
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Is there added insulation for soundproofing?
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Are garages and mechanical systems located inside the conditioned space?
The answers can influence everything from comfort to long-term maintenance and resale value.
If you're considering building or buying a home on Ono Island and would like to discuss insulation options, energy efficiency, or what to look for in a Gold Fortified home, I’d love to help guide you.
Reach out to me at meredith@searchthegulf.com
Explore new construction homes on Ono Island
Meredith Amon is a Gulf Coast Expert Real Estate Advisor, licensed in Alabama and Florida. She specializes in helping buyers and sellers navigate the buying and selling of homes along the Gulf Coast, with a focus on new construction and high-performance homes on Ono Island and in Orange Beach.
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